The Management Undergraduate Research Session (MURS), 2024, organised by the Faculty of Management Studies (FMS) at the Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, held for the 6th consecutive year, was a significant success. Under the theme “Synergy in Management Research: Bridging AI and Human Intelligence,” the event delved into the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in management research. It highlighted the powerful synergy between AI and human intellect, emphasising how their convergence unlocks unprecedented opportunities in management and addresses complex business and societal challenges.
This year’s MURS session featured a diverse range of research topics presented by final-year undergraduate students. The topics covered critical areas such as sustainable business practices, digital transformation, leadership strategies, consumer behaviour, and organisational behaviour. The integration of AI with these subjects represents the dynamic evolution of management research, demonstrating the growing influence of AI in shaping the future of business practices. The students’ work reflected academic rigour and their deep understanding of how AI can enhance business operations and decision-making.
MURS, held annually, serves as an essential platform for final-year management students to present their research while offering local and international undergraduates a space to exchange ideas and experiences. It plays a key role in fostering a strong research culture that connects academic research to real-world applications, ultimately bridging the gap between academia and industry. This platform also allows young researchers to engage in intellectual dialogues with experts, enhancing their understanding and helping shape their future careers.
Beyond academic exploration, MURS 2024 was a significant step toward advancing the research culture necessary for Sri Lanka’s sustainable development. The event aligned with Sri Lanka’s need to tackle complex challenges through innovative and informed solutions by encouraging students to explore global issues, such as risks and uncertainties in the modern world. Incorporating AI into research helped empower students to develop solutions for emerging global challenges, equipping them with the tools to address pressing issues with a combination of intellect and advanced technology.
The event was honoured by keynote speeches from two distinguished experts in their fields: Prof. Richi Nayak, Professor of Computer Science and Deputy Director of the Centre for Data Science at the Queensland University of Technology, and Sampath Jayasundara, CEO of hSenid Business Solutions. Their insights on AI and its integration with management research offered attendees a deeper understanding of how technology can solve contemporary business problems.
Additionally, the conference featured hybrid technical sessions, which saw over 130 young scientists and 50 panellists participate. These sessions were a dynamic platform for students to present their research, engage in discussions, and gain invaluable feedback. The “Best Presenter” award, selected by a panel of experts, recognised exceptional student research and innovation, with the awardees receiving certificates of excellence in recognition of their outstanding contributions.
The success of MURS 2024 would not have been possible without the dedication and hard work of several key individuals and teams. Prof. M. Sunil Shantha, Vice-Chancellor of Sabaragamuwa University, and Prof. Athula C. Gnanapala, Dean of the Faculty of Management Studies, provided strong leadership and unwavering support. The organising committee, led by Conference Chair Dr. H. R. Sampath and supported by Conference Secretary Lavangi Bandara, Conference Coordinating Secretary Mr. Samara Samantha, Conference Treasurer S. H. M. L. Walakumbura, and Department Coordinators Anusha Pathiraja, Shehara Jayakody, Lihini Mahawithana, and Shashini Bulumulla, played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of the event. The collective efforts of the university undergraduates were also crucial in making MURS 2024 a resounding success.
MURS 2024 has set a high standard for future conferences and research initiatives, highlighting the vital integration of AI in management studies and the importance of addressing real-world issues through innovative research. With continued support from the university leadership, faculty, and students, the future of management research at Sabaragamuwa University looks promising. MURS will undoubtedly remain an influential event for years to come, shaping the next generation of researchers and thought leaders in management.
