Introduction
The International Research Conference on Management, Social Sciences, and Humanities provided a vibrant platform for scholars, researchers, and experts in the field to delve into the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital age in the pursuit of resilience and sustainability. Under the auspices of the Department of Management and Finance at the Faculty of Management, Social Sciences, and Humanities, General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, the conference was divided into two technical sessions. In this article, we amalgamate the highlights from both sessions to present a comprehensive overview of the event.
Prof. Nalin Abeysekera and Prof. MPN Janadari, distinguished leaders in their fields, commenced the sessions by welcoming attendees and providing preliminary remarks.
Exploring Supply Chain Dynamics:
DN Kahaduwa initiated the knowledge-sharing with a case study on “The Usage of E‐Procurement in Sri Lanka Apparel Supply Chain and its Impact.” This presentation delved into the transformative power of e-procurement in the Sri Lankan apparel industry.
Green Leadership and Engagement:
HK Dassanaike, YA Iddagoda, H Dissanayake, and MPN Janadari navigated the audience through “Leadership, Green Human Resource Management, and Green Employee Engagement” within the context of the Sri Lanka Navy. This session highlighted the role of leadership in fostering environmental sustainability.
Digital Transformation in Banking:
ND de Zoysa, HAKNS Surangi, GKS Nimeshi, and RS Ranwala presented “Customer’s Perspective on Dynamics of Digital Transformation in the Bank Industry of Sri Lanka.” This session explored the evolving dynamics in the banking sector as it undergoes a digital transformation.
Healthcare and Logistics Impact:
RADVS Ranasinghe discussed the crucial factors affecting the “Effective Usage of Medical Equipment in Sri Lankan Hospitals,” shedding light on the challenges within healthcare management.
ALCHT Perera, MPRR Somarathne, and OK Edirisinghe delved into “The Impact of Logistics Function on the Performance of an Organization,” emphasizing logistics’ pivotal role in organizational success.
Innovation in Start-ups and Blockchain:
T Jayathissa, R Samarawickrama, N Jayathilake, D De Alwis, KR Ambepitiya, and TV Kelaniyage explored the “Impact of Bank Finance, Government Support, and Psychological Factors on Start‐up Decision Making in Sri Lanka.” This session highlighted the intricate relationship between finance, psychology, and entrepreneurship.
KJRRWMRAMAN Atipola, WKD Tharuka, RMK Silva, and ASP Ilangasekara presented a “Comparative Study on the Opportunities and Challenges of Blockchain Implementation in Logistics and Supply Chain Operations in Sri Lanka.” The discussion revolved around the potential of blockchain in revolutionizing logistics.
Innovative Techniques and Technology in Finance:
RAA Vishwanath, JCD Gunawardhana, DOD Siriwardhana, MKD Yethmina, and AHS Sharic introduced a “Quantity Estimated Method to Measure Flow of Nodes in a Freight Transport Network.” This presentation offered insights into innovative techniques in freight transport.
DN Bandulahewa, EASS Edirisinghe, PGAD Ranasinghe, and ASP Ilangasekara explored the “Adaptation of Blockchain Technology in the Banking Sector in Sri Lanka,” emphasizing the opportunities and challenges in the financial sector’s blockchain adoption.
Consumer Behavior and Technology:
RK Kasunthika examined “Influence on E‐Service Quality of E‐Tailors on E‐Satisfaction and E‐Repurchase Intention on Consumer Electronics Purchase Behavior.” This presentation highlighted the impact of e-service quality on consumer behavior.
Bringing it All Together:
Following each session, attendees engaged in a vibrant question and answer session, deepening the understanding of the presented research. Professor Abeysekera and Professor Janadari skillfully summarized key takeaways from their respective sessions.
Conclusion:
The International Research Conference on Management and Finance proved to be an invaluable forum for exchanging knowledge and insights in the fields of management and finance. As we look to the future, these findings will undoubtedly contribute to advancements in these crucial areas of study and practice, fostering innovation and growth in Sri Lanka and beyond. The Department of Management and Finance is proud to have hosted such a successful and enlightening event.