The Institute of Supply and Materials Management (ISMM) has taken a significant step in strengthening Sri Lanka’s Supply Chain industry by expanding its strategic partnership initiative. ISMM has now collaborated with leading corporations, including Unilever Sri Lanka Limited, Nestlé Lanka Limited, Hayleys Advantis Limited, Hemas Manufacturing (Private) Limited, Ceylon Agro Industries (Pvt) Ltd. (Prima Group), and Alumex PLC.
This milestone highlights ISMM’s ongoing commitment to bridging academia and industry, fostering innovation, and shaping the future of Sri Lanka’s supply chain landscape. By partnering with these prominent organizations, ISMM aims to drive sustainable development, professional growth, and transformative supply chain solutions across the country.
MoU signing
The landmark collaboration was formally recognized at a prestigious Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony held on March 26 and 27, 2025, at the ISMM Boardroom in Colombo. The agreements were signed by Mr. Jayantha Gallehewa, President, ISMM, Mr. Damith Abeyratne, Executive Director and Director Supply Chain, Unilever Sri Lanka, Mr. Kanchana Fernando, Director Supply Chain, Nestlé Lanka, Ms. Imali Jayathilake, Head of Group Human Resources &Advantis Campus, Hayleys Advantis, Ms. Sabrina Esufally, Managing Director, Hemas Manufacturing, Mr. Sajith Gunaratne, General Manager, Ceylon Agro Industries (Prima Group), Mr. Pramuk Dediwela, Managing Director, Alumex PLC.
The ceremony was attended by distinguished officials from ISMM, including Immediate Past President of ISMM & OPA Mr. Sarath Gamage, Vice President Mr. Lilantha Subasinghe, General Secretary Dr. Sanath Divakara, and Chairman &Secretary of the Business Development Committee of ISMM Mr. Thusith Gunawarnasuriya&Mr. Dilshan Silva and Key representatives from the partner organizations also graced the event.
Scope of collaboration
The structured partnership between ISMM and these esteemed organizations is designed to provide long-term benefits to ISMM members and employees of partner organizations through:
* Sustainable Industry-Academic Partnerships – Establishing a structured collaboration aligning with mutual industry and academic goals.
* Priority Access for ISMM Students – Offering internships and job placements, allowing students hands-on industry experience.
* Customized Training Programs – Delivering specialized professional development programs at exclusive rates to enhance the skills and capabilities of supply chain professionals.
* Industry Exposure for ISMM Students – Organizing field visits to partner facilities, offering first-hand insights into Supply Chain and Logistics operations.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mr. Jayantha Gallehewa, President of ISMM, emphasized the importance of industry-academia collaboration in shaping the future of Supply Chain management. He stated, “This partnership marks a significant milestone in our mission to develop world-class supply chain professionals who will drive Sri Lanka’s supply chain sector towards global competitiveness. By joining forces with leading supply chain and manufacturing organizations, we ensure that our students and professionals are well-prepared for the evolving demands of the industry.”
This initiative reaffirms ISMM’s dedication to strengthening Sri Lanka’s supply chain industry by equipping professionals with the latest skills, knowledge, and industry exposure. The collaboration is poised to set a new benchmark in supply chain education and corporate partnerships, paving the way for a more resilient, competitive, and future-ready supply chain sector in Sri Lanka.
With this strategic move, ISMM continues to bridge the gap between education and industry, ensuring that Sri Lanka remains at the forefront of global supply chain excellence.
