Gateway Graduate School is set to host its Research Symposium 2026 on Saturday, 31 October 2026, at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH), Colombo, bringing together academics, researchers, educators, policymakers, postgraduate students and school students for a day of intellectual exchange and discovery.
Held under the theme “Research and Innovation in Diverse Global Education,” the Symposium aims to foster a strong research culture, encourage interdisciplinary collaboration and provide a platform for sharing findings and exploring innovative approaches to contemporary educational challenges.
Distinguished International Keynote Speakers
A key highlight of the Symposium will be the participation of two distinguished keynote speakers.
Dr. Harsha Athurupana, Lead Economist at the World Bank, will share insights drawing on his extensive experience in education policy, economic development and educational reform.
Dr. Rozi Binte Rahmat, Lecturer in Education at the College of Human Sciences and Culture, Flinders University, Australia, will contribute perspectives from her academic and research experience in contemporary education.
Five Research Tracks Exploring Educational Challenges
The Symposium will feature parallel research presentations organised under five specialised tracks covering key areas shaping the future of education:
- AI, Data & Emerging Educational Technologies: Exploring the role of artificial intelligence, data and emerging technologies in transforming education.
- Educational Psychology and Wellbeing: Examining learner development, mental health, wellbeing and supportive learning environments.
- Leadership, Policy & Governance: Addressing educational leadership, institutional management and effective governance.
- Action Research and Community Engagement: Highlighting research that connects academic knowledge with practical solutions and community development.
- Teaching, Learning and Assessments: Exploring innovative teaching approaches, learning strategies and assessment practices.
These sessions will provide opportunities for researchers and practitioners to present their findings, exchange perspectives and explore the practical application of research.
Engaging Discussions with Leading Academics
The Symposium will also feature a panel discussion comprising Prof. Prasad Sethunga, Mr. SanthushWeeraman, Mrs. Vishaka Nanayakkara, Dr. Rozi Binte Rahmat and Mrs. Nirmali Wickremesinghe.
Open to all participants, the discussion will encourage meaningful dialogue on educational research, innovation and emerging challenges, drawing on the diverse expertise and experiences of the panellists.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Researchers
A distinctive feature of the Symposium is its dedicated Student Research Track and Workshop, aimed at introducing school students to academic research and encouraging critical thinking, creativity and independent inquiry.
Under the theme “School Research & Innovation,” students will have an opportunity to showcase their research, present ideas and develop confidence in communicating their findings.
A special workshop titled “The Research Mindset: Preparing for University and Beyond”, facilitated by Mr. Vidujith Vithanage, Visiting Faculty Member and Multidisciplinary Researcher, will help students develop essential research and analytical skills while preparing them for the academic demands of higher education.
Advancing Research and Innovation
The Gateway Graduate School Research Symposium 2026 seeks to strengthen connections between academic research and professional practice while encouraging collaboration among educational institutions, researchers and practitioners.
At a time when education is evolving rapidly in response to technological advancements and changing global needs, the Symposium highlights the importance of evidence-based approaches in shaping educational progress.
By bringing together established academics, emerging researchers and young innovators, Gateway Graduate School hopes to inspire a culture of inquiry that extends beyond classrooms and institutions, encouraging research that contributes meaningfully to education and society.
For registrations and further information, contact Ms. Isuri Kathriarachchi, Conference Secretary, on +94 76 425 6356 or via isuri.kathriarachchi@gateway.lk.
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