The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) and the University of Kelaniya have launched a new collaboration aimed at strengthening Sri Lanka’s electronic and electrical exports through research, innovation and product diversification.

The initiative, branded “Innovation Bridge 2026,” brought together more than 50 exporters and manufacturers at a seminar and mini innovation exhibition held at the University of Kelaniya on September 3.

More than 30 new products were showcased at the exhibition, while industry representatives had the opportunity to discuss ways of improving product quality, technology, standards, cost efficiency, marketing and intellectual property (IP) protection.

The programme is the first university–EDB–industry collaboration of its kind to provide the sector with access to research and development (R&D), IP support, artificial intelligence (AI) tools for international marketing, testing facilities and expert assistance in new product development.

The initiative was supported by the university’s Centre for Technology Transfer and Industry Linkage, University Incubation Centre and Electronics Design and Innovation Centre.

University academics and industry specialists provided participants with information on R&D, testing, quality improvement, cost reduction and IP-related opportunities. A session by Chaturanga Kuruppu, General Manager of Lanka Technology Manufacturers, focused on the use of AI tools to identify international buyers and promote products in overseas markets.

Akila De Zoysa, Deputy Director of the EDB, outlined the objectives of the programme and the current position of Sri Lanka’s electronic and electrical sector.

The event also featured a panel discussion where industry representatives raised issues encountered throughout the product development cycle and explored possible solutions with university and industry experts.

The EDB said it plans to build on the initiative by introducing preliminary testing facilities, R&D and IP support, and new product development services at the University of Kelaniya to meet the requirements of the electronic and electrical manufacturing industry.

The move is expected to strengthen links between academia and industry while helping local manufacturers improve competitiveness, develop higher-value products and expand their presence in international markets.