Bridging Academia & Industry: A New Chapter with KPMG & First Capital

The Department of Finance, University of Kelaniya, proudly signed two Memoranda of Understanding on 14th August 2025 with KPMG Sri Lanka and First Capital Asset Management Limited, marking a significant milestone in strengthening academic–industry collaboration.

These MoUs establish a formal partnership to jointly conduct two short courses for the Department’s third-year undergraduates:

• Professional Investment Analysis Programme (PIAP) in collaboration with KPMG Sri Lanka

• Professional Fund Management Programme (PFMP) in collaboration with First Capital Asset Management Limited

The signing ceremony was held at the Senate Room of the University of Kelaniya, and was graced by:

• Senior Professor Nilanthi de Silva – Vice-Chancellor, University of Kelaniya

• Mr. K. K. K. Dharmathilaka – Registrar, University of Kelaniya

• Professor Bandara Wanninayake – Dean, Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies

• Professor Ruwani Fernando – Head, Department of Finance

• Mr. Shiluka Goonewardene – Principal, Deal Advisory and Deputy Head of Markets, KPMG Sri Lanka

• Mr. Kavin Karunamoorthy – Chief Executive Officer, First Capital Asset Management Limited

Representatives from both institutions, course conductors, academic staff, and undergraduates of the Department were also in attendance.

This collaboration aims to bridge the gap between academia and the corporate sector by offering students access to real-world insights, technical expertise, and industry mentorship, ultimately nurturing the next generation of finance professionals.