La Trobe University, Colombo in collaboration with Study Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, and La Trobe University, Australia organised a panel discussion on “AI and Future Employment Opportunities.” The event focused on providing valuable insights into the evolving role of artificial intelligence in the work- force and it concluded successfully on 25th April at La Trobe University Colombo.

It brought together distinguished academics from La Trobe University, school principals, teachers, industry experts, and education leaders, who shared valuable perspectives on how artificial intelligence is transform- ing industries, reshaping career pathways, and creating new opportu- nities for the future workforce.

The event was honoured by the presence of distinguished guests including:

• Michelle Wade – Victoria’s Commissioner to South Asia, G l o b a l V i c t o r i a , S t a t e G o v e r n m e n t o f Vi c t o r i a , Australia
• David Walker – Associate Dean, Learning & Teaching, La Trobe Business School
• Louise Lexis – Associate Dean, Learning & Teaching, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and E n v i r o n m e n t , L a T r o b e University
• Lisa Ritchie – Lecturer, School of Psychology and Public Health, and Deputy Coordinator of the Postg raduate prog ramme in Rehabilitation Counselling, La Trobe University
• Amit Malhotra – S e n i o r Regional Director (South Asia and Africa), La Trobe University
• Piyush Wahi – Associate Director (South Asia & Africa), La Trobe University

The discussion explored key AI top- ics including the future of work, emerging career opportunities, the importance of digital skills, the ethi- cal use of AI, AI applications in busi- ness and healthcare, automation trends, and how students can prepare for an evolving global job market.

Ms. Wade, Victoria’s Commissioner to South Asia, Global Victoria, State Gover nment of Victoria, Australia, remarked that the discussion underscored the growing importance of strong col- laboration between education pro- viders and industry stakeholders in equipping students with the skills required to navigate the opportuni- ties emerging from artificial intelligence and the evolving world of work.

Professor Amalia Di Iorio, Pro Vice- Chancellor (Educational Partnerships), La Trobe University, said: “Our partnership reflects a shared commitment to expanding access to high-quality international education through a model that is both globally aligned and locally responsive. Through this partnership, students can access La Trobe University’s academic standards alongside strong local insight, ensuring an education that is both inter- nationally relevant and contextually grounded. At La Trobe University, Colombo, this provides a clear pathway for students to commence their degrees in Sri Lanka while developing the perspective and capabilities required to lead in an AI-driven glob- al economy.”

The event showcased La Trobe University’s commitment to raising awareness of emerging trends and the essential skills required to excel in relevant fields, whether as a stu- dent, professional, or educator.

About La Trobe University Colombo

La Trobe University Colombo offers globally recognised higher education pathways to La Trobe University, Australia, in Business and Information Technology. Students can complete the first year of their degree in Colombo and transfer to Australia for the remain- ing two years.

Students enrolled in the Diploma in IT can choose majors such as Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Software  Engineering, Cybersecurity, Information Systems, or Network Engineering.

Meanwhile, students pursuing the Diploma in Business can specialise in Business Analytics, Digital Business, International Business, Event Management, Tourism and Hospitality, Management, Accounting, Finance, Enterprise, Marketing, or Human Resource Management.

La Trobe University Colombo is committed to delivering academic excellence on par with La Trobe University, Australia, ensuring stu- dents receive a globally recognized education and the skills needed to succeed in an evolving world.

If you are interested to gain further information regarding the programme offered by La Trobe University Colombo Campus, call on +94 711 263 263 or visit us at 36, Alfred House Avenue, Colombo 03.