
By Senior Professor and Chair, Menik Hettihewa, Symposium Chair The 7th CINEC International Research Symposium (CIRS 2026) is set to take place on 18 August 2026 at the Hilton Colombo, bringing together academics, researchers, indus- try experts, and policy leaders under the theme “Bridging Academic Synergy for National Progress: Integrating Knowledge for Economic Transformation.” As Symposium Chair, it is my great pleasure to welcome the global academic community to this important platfor m hosted by CINEC Campus. The symposium continues its strong tradition of fostering interdisci- plinary collaboration aimed at advancing research driven solutions for national and global challenges. This year, we anticipate wide participation from scholarsre presenting Computing, Engineering and Technology, Health Sciences, Science, Marine Engineering, and Maritime Sciences. CIRS 2026 will feature distinguished international participa- tion, including our keynote speaker, Dr. Bandula Wijay, a world-renowned biomedical sci- entist, inventor, and entrepreneur based in Houston, USA.
eHis pioneering contribu- tions to biomedical engineering, particu- larly in cardiovascu- lar medical devices, have significantly advanced interven- tional cardiology and improved patient care worldwide. We are also honored to host eminent exper ts as chief guests, including Professor Rakesh Garg from India, a distinguished Professor in Onco Anaesthesia and Palliative Medicine, whose expertise will enrich scientific dialogue and strengthen discussions on advancing healthcare research and innovation. A key feature of this year’s symposium is the publication of all accepted abstracts in the Jour nal of Innovation in Science, Engineering and Technology (JISET) as well as in the official conference pro- ceedings. This reflects our com- mitment to ensuring strong academic visibility and the dis- semination of high-quality research outputs.
Another important highlight is the Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition, conducted with the approval of the University of Queensland. This initiative provides MPhil and PhD candidates with a unique opportunity to present their research in a concise and impactful manner, enhancing their ability to communicate complex scientific ideas to broader audiences. Also, anoth- er important scholarly feature of CIRS 2026 is the Submission of Orations, which provides a distinguished platform for sen- ior academics, researchers, and professionals to present reflec- tive, impactful, and thought- provoking scholarly contribu- tions. Selected oration will be delivered during the symposi- um as part of the official aca- demic program, offering an opportunity for intellectual dis- course at the highest level.
This segment of the symposium aims to recognize academic excellence while inspiring future directions in research, policy, and practice across mul- tiple disciplines. In preparation for the main symposium, a series of pre-con- ference workshops scheduled from March to July 2026, cover- ing multiple disciplines. With increasing internation- al engagement and a strong emphasis on research impact, CIRS 2026 is set to become a leading platform for academic exchange, innovation, and col- laboration in Sri Lanka and beyond. I war mly invite all researchers, innovators, and industry partners to join us at the Hilton Colombo for this landmark event