SkillXcellerator: Empowering the Next Generation of Professionals

In today’s fast-evolving world, staying ahead means constantly upgrading one’s skills. Understanding this need, the Rotaract Clubs of Colombo North, University of Colombo – Faculty of Arts, Faculty of Law, and School of Computing, University of Moratuwa, University of Kelaniya; University of Peradeniya; University of Sri Jayewardenepura; and the Alumni of University of Moratuwa., launched SkillXcellerator—a two-phase initiative designed to equip young professionals and students in Sri Lanka with valuable, future-focused skills. From project management and software development to law, journalism, AI, and international relations, the project offered a wide array of workshops and speaker sessions—all completely free of charge.

Phase 1 of SkillXcellerator took place on March 8th at the University of Colombo’s Faculty of Arts. The day started with parallel sessions: one on business management led by Ishani Mirihagalla and Maas Savanghan, who shared practical insights on talent development, and another on journalism, delivered by Dilmini de Silva and Senitha Senanayake, who drew from their experiences in the media industry to offer real-world advice. The excitement continued with a highly anticipated session on software engineering conducted by Isuru Jayakody, Tech Lead at Axiata Digital Labs. Running alongside were sessions on law, where speakers Janithri Pandithrathne, Namali Rathnayake, Yalinda de Almeida, and Binuri Weerasinghe discussed current legal trends and their real-world implications. Then, the focus shifted to AI and analytics, with Sandani Jayawardane and Lahiru Ariyasinghe offering a data-driven look at innovation and its applications. Meanwhile, Rangika Perera hosted a dynamic workshop on project management, sharing actionable strategies rooted in leadership and organization. The day concluded with a thought-provoking session on international relations and human rights, led by Chiranthi Senanayake. Her global perspective resonated with the audience, inspiring many to think beyond local boundaries. As each session wrapped up, speakers were thanked with tokens of appreciation, and photos were taken to mark the occasion—capturing the connections and memories made throughout the event.

Building on the success of Phase 1, Phase 2 of SkillXcellerator was held on April 26th at the University of Peradeniya. This phase focused on three key areas: Business Analytics, Business Management, and Software Engineering. The event brought together experienced professionals who were eager to share both practical knowledge and industry insights. The Business Analytics session featured Malsha Mayadunne, Associate BA Lead, and Ramesh Peries, Senior Business Consultant, who delivered an engaging look into analytics as a decision-making tool in modern business. The Software Engineering session was led by Madhushan Adhikari, an Associate Architect with hands-on industry experience, while Sasankaa De Zoysa, Senior Executive in Talent Acquisition, conducted the Business Management session, providing a recruitment-focused view on managing people and resources. With over 100 registrations and 60 active attendees, Phase 2 offered a comfortable and interactive experience, with refreshments provided to keep participants energized and focused throughout the day.

Together, both phases of SkillXcellerator created a platform for learning, networking, and growth. By offering sessions across such a diverse range of disciplines, the project empowered students and young professionals with relevant skills and practical knowledge, encouraging them to take charge of their career paths with confidence. SkillXcellerator wasn’t just a one-time event—it was a meaningful step toward building a more capable, informed, and future-ready generation.