Mobitel to set up research lab at Colombo University

Sri Lanka Telecom Mobitel will help set up a research laboratory for the Science Faculty of the University of Colombo, an official of the company said.

Sri Lanka Telcom Mobitel signed five agreements with the University of Colombo to uplift the higher education sector through an ICT- enhanced knowledge economy.

Colombo University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kshanika Hirimburegama said that the tie-up with Mobitel is a timely move to build a vibrant economy in the country enhancing ICT knowledge among youth. The setting up of a research laboratory is a solid move to enhance research and development in the university.

Mobitel was the first to launch 3.5G HSPA network in Asia and first to demonstrate HSPA plus MIMO 4G/LTE. The company's mobile penetration has increased from a round 20 percent to over 90 percent within a short span. The projects to be launched comprise a management program which will be available through Mobitel's eLearning platform, an internship program and an annual peace award to encourage academics to set an example for youth to maintain peace and harmony among the undergraduates.

Prof. Hirimburegama said that the university has played a pivotal role in creating a viable education sector in the country. Initiatives of this nature will help enhance the professional excellence of students to meet the challenges of the modern world.

"The Colombo University is in the forefront of academic excellence, discipline and professionalism. We hope those academics who are boisterous and have deviated from their responsibilities will fall in line to develop the country," she said. Mobitel has launched several programs to boost ICT knowledge among university students and academics to build a knowledge hub in the country.

LF