The SLIIT Business School has once again demonstrated its growing reputation for research excellence, with three of its student research teams achieving an extraordinary milestone through the publication of their studies in prestigious Scopus Q1 indexed international journals. This remarkable achievement underscores the university’s commitment to fostering a strong research culture where students are encouraged to explore, innovate, and produce work that contributes to real-world impact.

The accomplishment also reflects the School’s broader mission of empowering young minds to go beyond the classroom, transforming theoretical learning into globally relevant knowledge. Three student teams produced impactful research across diverse and socially significant areas. The first team authored “Framework to Create Opportun i t ies to Maximise the Contribution of Differently Abled Employees in the Sri Lankan Garment Industry,” carried out by Panchali Gurudasa, Sandali Fonseka, Sahan Dananjaya, and Chamath Weerasinghe. The second study, titled “How Effective Are Incentives in Driving Green Behaviour? Analyzing Monetary and Non-Monetary Incentives in the Hospitality Industry,” was completed by Kaveesha Ann Dilmi, Senuri Sannasgala, Sahan Malinga Pitipanaarachchi, and Nimeshika Dushmanthi . The thi rd proj ect , “Identifying the Causes of Adolescent Malnutrition in Nuwara-Eliya District, Sri Lanka,” was conducted by Sunethya Nandajeewa, Sandunika Aluthwatta, Nadhee Wijesinghe, and Thirasha Liyanaarachchi.

Each team was guided by a dedicated panel of supervisors, including Prof. Samantha Thelijjagoda, Ms. Anuja Lokeshwara, Mr. Ranitha Weerarathna, Ms. Nilmini Rathnayaka, and Ms. Vageesha Rajapaksha. Together, these research contributions highlight areas such as workplace inclusivity, sustainability in the hospitality industry, and adolescent nutrition. Their success marks a defining moment for the School, positioning it among the few institutions in Sri Lanka with multiple student-led Q1 international publications.

Creating Opportunities for Differently Abled Employees

The first research paper, “Framework to create opportunities to maximise the contribution of differently abled employees in the Sri Lankan garment industry,” was published in Quality & Quantity (Scopus Q1, Scimago H-Index 85). This study addresses a critical yet often overlooked aspect of workplace inclusivity, focusing on the empowerment of differently abled employees within one of Sri Lanka’s largest industries.

Through in-depth analysis and interviews with industry stakeholders, the students developed a framework that highlights how inclusive policies, accessible infrastructure, and empathetic management practices can not only improve workplace equality but also enhance overall productivity. Their work presents a practical blueprint for fostering diversity and inclusivity in the workforce, making a valuable contribution to both academia and the corporate sector.

Addressing Adolescent Malnutrition in Nuwara Eliya

The second team’s work, “Identifying the Causes of Adolescent Malnutrition in Nuwara-Eliya District, Sri Lanka,” appeared in Scientific Reports, one of the world’s most reputable journals with a Scimago H-Index of 347. This study delved into a pressing public health concern in Sri Lanka, combining statistical analysis and field data to uncover the root causes of adolescent malnutrition in one of the country’s most affected districts.

Their research identifies how socio-economic disparities, dietary habits, education levels, and access to healthcare contribute to malnutrition, particularly among adolescents from lower-income families. Beyond uncovering the causes, the team proposed a framework of community- level interventions that can inform policymakers and local authorities. The publication of this study in such a highimpact international journal reflects not only the students’ dedication but also SLIIT’s growing contribution to social and community-oriented research.

Exploring Green Behaviour in Hospitality

The third research team’s study, titled “How effective are incentives in driving green behavior? Analysing monetary and non-monetary incentives in the hospitality industry,” was published in Cogent Business & Management (Scopus Q1, Scimago H-Index 56). The research explores how businesses within the hospitality sector can effectively promote environmentally sustainable behavior through incentive mechanisms.

By analysing both monetary and nonmonetary approaches, the students identified how employee motivation and customer engagement can be strengthened to reduce waste, improve energy efficiency, and promote eco-friendly practices. Their findings have practical implications for hoteliers and tourism professionals seeking to embed sustainability into their core business models. The study’s global recognition through publication in a Q1 journal reflects the team’s strong methodological approach and the real-world relevance of their insights.

Celebrating Student Achievement and Institutional Support

These three research projects stand as a testament to the passion, perseverance, and intellectual curiosity of SLIIT’s young researchers. Publishing in globally ranked Q1 journals is a remarkable accomplishment for undergraduate and postgraduate students, one that requires not only academic rigor but also resilience, teamwork, and creativity.

Behind these successes lies the strong foundation provided by the SLIIT Business School, which continuously fosters a culture of inquiry and innovation, especially with the great team of supervisors we had. Their mentorship ensured that each team met international research standards while staying grounded in issues relevant to Sri Lanka and the region.

Impact on Society and the Research Profile of SLIIT The broader impact of these achievements extends beyond academia. The studies contribute to fields that directly influence business practices, community welfare, and inclusive growth. Whether it is promoting sustainability in tourism, addressing health disparities, or advancing workplace inclusivity, each research output offers tangible benefits for society. At the institutional level, these publications elevate SLIIT’s reputation as a research-driven university that nurtures globally competitive scholars. They reflect a maturing research ecosystem within the SLIIT Business School , where students are not just learners but also creators of knowledge.

Inspiring the Next Generation

The success of these teams serves as an inspiration for others pursuing academic and professional excellence. Their journey demonstrates what can be achieved through curiosity, persistence, and the right mentorship. As SLIIT Business School continues to expand its research footprint, it remains committed to guiding future cohorts toward similar accomplishments that make a difference locally and globally. Through these remarkable achievements, SLIIT Business School reaffirms its mission to empower students not only to learn about the world of business but to transform it.