Dialog Axiata PLC has entered into a strategic partnership with India’s Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) Pravartak Technologies Foundation through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening applied research and accelerating technology development in Sri Lanka.
The partnership marks a significant step in India-Sri Lanka collaboration, bringing together international research expertise and local industry stakeholders to develop practical solutions to national and societal challenges. It also seeks to enhance Sri Lanka’s research capabilities and create pathways for transforming innovative ideas into real-world applications.
Under the agreement, Dialog will act as the collaboration anchor and technology enabler, connecting IITM Pravartak’s research networks with Sri Lankan industries and institutions. The partnership will focus on five key areas: innovation and incubation, applied research and university laboratories, artificial intelligence and human-centric solutions, industry skills and talent development, and international knowledge sharing.
Initial areas of potential collaboration include conversational AI solutions in Sinhala and Tamil, technology-driven approaches to dengue prevention and response, and innovative solutions to mitigate human-elephant conflict.
Commenting on the partnership, Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Santosh Jha highlighted the longstanding relationship between the two countries, noting that cooperation in technology and research offers valuable opportunities to strengthen engagement between their institutions and communities.
IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation Chief Executive Officer Dr. Shankar Jayaraman said the collaboration would help bridge the gap between academic research and practical applications. He added that working with Dialog, Sri Lankan universities and local stakeholders would create opportunities for researchers and students to exchange knowledge, strengthen technical capabilities and develop solutions to real-world challenges.
Dialog Axiata PLC Director and Group Chief Executive Supun Weerasinghe emphasised the importance of using technology to address pressing challenges and create meaningful opportunities for communities. He said the partnership aims to connect global expertise with Sri Lankan talent to develop innovative solutions with a lasting impact on society.
Assetline Finance Expands Its Network with 64th Branch in Wattala
Assetline Finance PLC (AFIN), the flagship company of the financial services arm of David Pieris Holdings, has expanded its islandwide presence with the opening of its 64th branch in Wattala, located along Old Negombo Road.
The new branch marks another milestone in the company’s efforts to provide accessible, convenient and locally focused financial solutions to growing urban communities and businesses.
Designed to cater to the needs of Wattala’s residents and business community, the facility brings Assetline Finance’s range of financial services closer to customers, enabling convenient access to financing options and personalised financial guidance.
The opening ceremony was attended by senior company representatives, including Director and Chief Executive Officer Ashan Nissanka, Chief Operating Officer Mahesh De Silva, Chief Marketing Officer Ajantha Premasiri, Chief Recovery Officer Shiran Weerasinghe and General Manager – Channel Management Sanka Jayampathi. Members of the management team, customers and local well-wishers also participated in the occasion.
With the addition of the Wattala branch, Assetline Finance now operates 64 branches across Sri Lanka. Its islandwide reach is further strengthened by a network of more than 2,500 customer touchpoints through the David Pieris Group.
The new branch offers a comprehensive range of financial solutions under one roof, including vehicle financing, auto loans, asset drafts and solar financing.
Conveniently situated on Old Negombo Road, the facility is designed to enhance customer convenience through efficient service delivery, streamlined operations and a comfortable environment tailored to individual financial needs.
The expansion reflects Assetline Finance’s continued focus on strengthening its physical presence and improving access to financial services for customers across the country.
Dialog Axiata Partners with IITM Pravartak to Drive Research and Innovation in Sri Lanka
