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The Department of Marketing Management Celebrates 20 Years of Excellence
The Department of Marketing Management (DMM) of the University of Kelaniya celebrated its 20th Anniversary on the 1st of April 2025, at the department premises. This milestone marked two decades of dedication to academic excellence, innovation, and leadership in marketing education in Sri Lanka.
The day commenced with a multi-religious blessing ceremony held within the university premises, emphasizing the department’s ongoing commitment to social responsibility and community contribution. A celebratory cake-cutting ceremony followed, bringing together academic staff, undergraduates, alumni, and distinguished guests to honour the department’s journey and achievements.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sugeeth Patabendige, Head of the Department, delivered an inspiring speech reflecting on the department's growth and evolution. He spoke proudly of several pioneering milestones—most notably, the launch of Sri Lanka’s first ISO-certified bachelor’s degree in marketing and the country’s first undergraduate degree specializing in Digital Marketing. He also highlighted the department's distinction as the first SAP University Alliance Partner in Sri Lanka, reinforcing its forward-thinking approach to technology-integrated learning.
One of the key highlights of the department's recent contributions to the field is its involvement in Digital Outlook, a significant research initiative that explores trends and insights shaping the digital marketing landscape in Sri Lanka. This involvement demonstrates the department’s active role in research and development, as well as its responsiveness to emerging industry dynamics. Former lecturers who played a foundational role in establishing the department were also invited to the celebration, sharing words of encouragement and memories from the early days. Their presence served as a touching tribute to the department’s rich legacy.
Over the years, the Department of Marketing Management has built strong partnerships with leading industry organizations to provide students with practical exposure, training, and career development opportunities. These collaborations have significantly enriched the learning experience and helped bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world practice. As the department celebrates 20 years of impactful education, it remains committed to nurturing innovative, ethical marketing professionals. The DMM continues to evolve, setting new standards in marketing education and inspiring the next generation of leaders.