The Department of Marketing Management of the Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies ceremoniously marked the beginning of a new academic year with the 9th Inauguration Ceremony of the Master of Business Management (MBM) in Marketing on the 12th of October 2024. The prestigious event took place at the View Hall, Waters Edge Hotel, Battaramulla, and was attended by a distinguished gathering of academics, industry leaders, students, and well-wishers. The event commenced with a warm and eloquent welcome address delivered by Dr. Sugeeth Patabandige, Head of the Department of Marketing Management. Dr. Patabandige emphasized the pivotal role that the MBM program plays in shaping future leaders in the field of marketing and underscored the department’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and professional development.

The Chief Guest, Prof. W.M.C.B. Wanninayake, Dean of the Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, followed with an inspiring speech that highlighted the ever-evolving nature of the global business environment and the growing importance of strategic marketing expertise. He encouraged the new cohort to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, and to actively contribute to the advancement of the marketing profession. Senior Prof. Kapila Seneviratne, the Guest of Honor, echoed these sentiments in his address, emphasizing the significance of academic rigor, innovation, and industry-relevant learning as core pillars of the MBM in Marketing program. His remarks underscored the university’s vision of producing graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also adaptive and forward-thinking.

A special highlight of the ceremony was the keynote address by Mr. Jayantha Karunaratne, Managing Director of Imperial Teas (PVT) Limited. Mr. Karunaratne shared his remarkable journey in the business world, offering invaluable insights and lessons drawn from his extensive experience in building a globally recognized brand. His speech left the audience inspired, providing a real-world perspective on the intersection of innovation, perseverance, and success in marketing. The ceremony concluded with the Vote of Thanks delivered by Prof. D.M.R. Dissanayake, Coordinator of the MBM in Marketing, who expressed gratitude to all the distinguished guests, faculty, and participants. Following this, Mr. Thilina Karunanyaka, the Technical Coordinator, provided an insightful overview of the MBM program and outlined the academic schedule, giving students a clear understanding of the journey ahead. The 9th Inauguration Ceremony was a significant milestone, marking the beginning of a transformative academic experience for the incoming MBM cohort. It set the stage for a year of academic excellence, practical learning, and professional growth in the ever-competitive and dynamic field of marketing.