1. Making State Universities Innovative and Enterprising
Presentation of the Group 5

2. Outline
Current status
Gaps/Challenges
Way forward

3. Our Group Deans and Bursars of the following universities represented;
University of Peradeniya
University of Jaffna
University of Sri Jayewardenepura
University of Sabaragamuwa
Eastern University of Sri Lanka
Open University of Sri Lanka
Uwa Wellassa University
University of Colombo
University of Ruhuna
University of Kelaniya
KDU

4. General Status and Challenges on Innovations and Entrepreneurship
In the teaching learning process hitherto adopted it is not mandatory for students to be innovators or entrepreneurs; the efforts from the universities are purely voluntary
Wide variation in universities as well as courses/faculties in this regard.
Some universities have got a long way while others are still at the initial stages or none
This also depends largely on the program; sciences and management have more opportunities than social sciences and humanities
Availability of funds, the support from relevant outside organisations (ie. Inventors Commission, industry etc.) are crucial in directing the students to move to this direction, supported and rewarded
The existing patenting process in the country is not efficient

5. As the university-industry link in teaching learning process is not optimal, the innovations could not find a ready market
There is little opportunity for entrepreneurship within the curriculum and therefore students are more interested in completing the degree
The innovations culture is not present in the universities
Financial constraints and contacts

6. Strategies for improvement
Inventions are not only products but ideas too!!
Integrate innovations and entrepreneurship to the curriculum as well as to the teaching learning process
Include credits for innovations, entrepreneurial projects (done as teams) across all the subjects and disciplines
Allow more industry participation in curriculum development, delivery and assessments

7. Introduction of external program partners for each degree/non degree course/research programs

8. Introduce university-industry incubation centres as appropriate ably supported by the National Inventors Commission
Establish an entrepreneurship arm in all the universities to encourage both the young as well as experienced researchers to innovate and link the output with the industry. Seed funding will be provided when necessary.
Establish links with other relevant partners; Export Development Board, Banks (who promote innovations in various areas) etc.
Create Entrepreneurial chairs in university

9. Encourage the student groups to work with Export Development Board in production and popularization of goods to world outside
Provide seed funds or/and guidance to establish student companies to provide goods and services
T shirt printing, re usable bags, cards, IT services and other help desks
Consultancy firms to provide specialised services; statistics, environmental assessments, business development, media etc.

10. Eco Design
Incorporating Environmental considerations at the early stages (Algae based plastics)

11. Banana Fibre Products

12. Pine Apple Fibre products

13. YOUR IDEAS ARE MOST
WELCOME