2nd International Conference on Sustainable and Digital Business [ICSDB] 2023

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://rda.sliit.lk/handle/123456789/3955

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Open Access
Agent-Based Gamified Learning Environments for Data Science Education
(SLIIT Business School, 2023-12-14) Jayalath, N; Rajapakse, C
Because of the rapid advancement of technology and the increasing importance of the inferences that can be drawn from the big data available in organizations, modern organizations require managers and data Analysts who are capable of data-driven decision-making. But data science students need a natural environment when it comes to learning data-driven decisionmaking, especially when it comes to predictive and prescriptive analytics. Due to costs and other associated risks in a natural organisation setting, it is hard for educational institutions to teach these aspects of decision-making for data science students. Even Though gamification has been implemented in the data analysis domain in various forms, the field still requires a suitable environment to learn predictive analytics interactively for the students. Even though Researchers have identified that Gamified learning environments can improve Predictive analytics learning can be improved by 15.8%, still there is the lack of proper implementation of a suitable gamified learning environment. This research focused on identifying drawbacks of existing learning environments and whether Agent-Based Modeling can be used in modelling a suitable gamified learning environment. Therefore, an agent-based prototype model of a parameterized environment that enables data-driven decision-making in a simulated environment was modeled using Agentbased modeling, which depicts real-life donor interactions. Results suggest that fill in blanks This Agent-based model can be used as a learning environment for data analysis. Upon further modification, A game that applies this Agent-based model can be developed.
Open Access
The Appropriateness of Organizational Structure for Project Performance: An Exploratory Study of Public Sector Organizations in Sri Lanka
(SLIIT Business School, 2023-12-14) Bandara, G
The objective of this paper is to explore the most appropriate type of structure that can improve project performance of public sector organizations in Sri Lanka. The study utilized the qualitative approach conducting ten structured interviews with project management administrators in the selected five public sector organizations and performing thematic analysis on the coded responses. According to the findings, of the five types of structures; functional, weak matrix, balanced matrix, strong matrix and projectized, strong matrix and projectized structures are advantageous to achieve project scope, time, cost, and customer satisfaction. Hence, the senior authorities at Sri Lankan public sector organizations must take actions to revise their existing structure into a strong matrix or projectized structure for achieving eminent project performance by fulfilling project scope, time, cost, and customer satisfaction.
Open Access
Beyond Gender Diversity: Two Shades of Women Directors and Bank Cash Holdings
(SLIIT Business School, 2023-12-14) Abid, A; Younas, A
Drawing upon the precautionary savings theory and agency theory, the researchers present two competing hypotheses to examine the influence of women directors, critical mass, and the attributes of women directors (specifically, educational expertise in terms of level and type, and financial expertise) on decisions related to bank cash holdings. Utilizing a dataset comprising 1375 observations representing 187 Asian commercial banks spanning from 2011 to 2019, it is discovered that women directors (as well as a critical mass of women directors) exhibit a negative correlation with bank cash holdings, supporting the agency problem-based explanation. These findings remain robust across alternative econometric specifications and varied measures of cash holdings. Concerning the impact of educational expertise, results from the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) analysis indicate that women directors with a high level of education reduce the level of cash holdings, and those with qualifications in business/accounting/finance also decrease the level of cash holdings when measured by CASH1. Notably, the results reveal that women directors with a financial background increase excess cash holdings, aligning with the precautionary savings-based explanation. The findings contribute valuable insights to the ongoing global discourse on gender diversity and its ramifications for the banking sector.
Open Access
Changing Paradigms of Supply Chains
(SLIIT Business School, 2023-12-14) Venkatesh, V. G.
There has been a paradigm shift in the functioning of global supply chains, particularly in thepost-pandemic era. This shift is characterized by the convergence of technology. deployment, geopolitical dynamics, and an increased awareness of environmental and social responsibilities. These transformative changes compel businesses to navigate a complex. web of challenges while simultaneously creating many opportunities for global supply chains. This includes delegating responsibilities to the supplier side, empowering suppliers, and promoting digital supply chain networks.
Open Access
Economic Crisis and Its Effects on ERP Adoption in Sri Lanka
(SLIIT Business School, 2023-12-14) Opatha, N; Withanaarachchi, A
ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems are comprehensive software platforms that are specifically designed to manage a wide range of a business's essential processes, including finance, accounting, human resources, procurement, inventory management and project management. In the event of a country facing forthcoming economic collapse, organizations often find it challenging to determine the technological innovation activities they should engage in. The proliferation of the IT industry and its associated value proposition has led to the adoption of ERP systems becoming a popular strategic decision for businesses in the contemporary world. However, organizations' perception affects their inclination to adopt new technologies during economic crises. Hence, identifying factors influencing ERP adoption and assessing crises' impact on such systems is crucial. This research endeavour aims to examine the factors that are likely to exert a significant influence on the adoption of ERP systems within the context of Sri Lanka. The study adopts the Technological - Organizational – Environmental (TOE) framework to provide a comprehensive understanding of the factors that affect the adoption of ERP systems in organizations in Sri Lanka. This study seeks to investigate how the factors identified impact the adoption of ERP systems and how the turbulent economic condition in Sri Lanka has affected it. Existing scholarly literature on ERP adoption during an economic crisis is relatively scarce, and thus, this study will fill a critical gap in the body of knowledge. Furthermore, this study will offer invaluable insights into the importance of the identified factors, ICT Infrastructure, Human Capital, Competitive Pressure, Demand for Products or Services and Trading Partners’ Readiness for business communities in Sri Lanka. Also, this will provide insights into how a country's finance affects ERP adoption, helping organizations make informed technology adoption decisions.
Open Access
Essential Factors for the Advancement of the Yarn Manufacturing Sector in Sri Lanka: Implications of the Socio- Economic Environment
(SLIIT Business School, 2023-12-14) De Silva, M; Withanaarachchi, A
The textile and apparel sector are well-represented in the industrial sector of the Sri Lankan economy. It has become Sri Lanka’s largest export industry since 1986. Enhancing quality and decreasing expenses are the main priorities for the Sri Lankan apparel sector, highlighting the necessity for deliberate growth. More significant export revenue and considerable import expenditure on raw materials like yarn, fabric, etc., for apparel manufacturing, is a common phenomenon in the Sri Lankan apparel sector leading to less economic value generation. Thus, this paper studies the key factors affecting the advancement of the yarn manufacturing sector in Sri Lanka and the implications of the turbulent socio-economic environment. To address the identified research problem, this study proposes a conceptual framework through a systematic literature review, which identifies the essential factors for the advancement of the yarn manufacturing sector in Sri Lanka under the current socio-economic environment. The Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) method was used to capture the interactive relationships among the key factors and the advancement of the yarn manufacturing sector in Sri Lanka. Data was gathered using questionnaires from employees in the yarn manufacturing industry, textile industry, and textile engineering students in Sri Lanka. The results show that the quality of raw materials, machines and technology and better investors have a positive relationship with the advancement of the yarn manufacturing sector in Sri Lanka.
Open Access
Exploring Disparities in Happiness Index Rankings: A Comparative Study between Selected Countries
(SLIIT Business School, 2023-12-14) Gevindhi, J; Dasanayaka, P; Dewappriya, R; Parinda, K
This study aims to investigate the impact of economic and certain social and governance factors on the happiness index, with a focus on estimating their relative contribution to disparities among groups of countries classified according to income levels (high, upper-middle, lowermiddle, and low). This study employs a multiple regression technique to analyse data collected from the World Bank database and the World Happiness Report spanning the years 2010 to 2019 to compare the four groups of countries categorized by the World Bank according to their income levels of each income group. The findings of this study show that healthcare expenditure and government effectiveness increase people’s happiness in all four groups of countries. Furthermore, the findings suggest that fiscal contribution matters for people’s happiness only in high income and upper middle-income countries. Additionally, infrastructure, government effectiveness, political stability and absence of violence and terrorism, rule of law and voice and accountability matter for the happiness of people in lower-middle income countries. All variables, except fiscal contribution, have a significant impact on the happiness of people in low-income countries. This paper is the first that analyses how economic and certain social and governance factors relatively impact happiness of peoples in selected four groups of countries that classified according to their all four income levels.
Open Access
Exploring the Determinants of Migration Intention of IT Professionals: Evidence from Sri Lanka
(SLIIT Business School, 2023-12-14) Rathnayake, U; Jithmini, T; Amarasinghe, T; Alahakoon, S; Dunuwila, V
International IT professional migration occurs beyond national lines because of globalization and internationalism, with the goals of information sharing, obtaining higher living standards, as well as for economic reasons. This study aims to explore the factors influencing to the outflow migration of IT professionals in Sri Lanka. This study is the first of its kind in Sri Lanka during the time when the country was dealing with the COVID-19 outbreak and the economic crisis since it rests its originality on information acquired from the local arena. Higher migration rates is a significant concern to Sri Lanka, since second-largest export revenue generating industry is the IT sector. Researchers examined the connections between different factors' effects on migration intention. These studies illustrate some variation in worldwide migration intention factors and trends. They concluded that while the migratory intentions of some countries and identified variables are positively connected, others are negatively connected. Thematic analysis leading to a factor analysis were used in this study to collect data from Sri Lankans. Researchers have conducted interviews for this specific research objective which were followed by a questionnaire using mixed methods. In the results, rotated component analysis, which includes information about the relationships between each variable and the estimated components, is one of the most important outcomes of principle component analysis. As the conclusion, certain policies could encourage innovation, growth, and long-term economic development in Sri Lanka’s IT sector.
Open Access
Factors Impacting Job Satisfaction of Female Academic Staff in Sri Lankan State Universities
(SLIIT Business School, 2023-12-14) Edirisinghe, G; Serasinghe, I; Amarasinghe, S; Galappatti, D; Wisenthige, K; Jayathilake, T
The purpose of this research is to investigate the critical factors impacting job satisfaction of female academic staff in state universities. With a rising number of women entering academia, it is critical to identify the factors that contribute to their job satisfaction to build an inclusive and supportive work environment. Using a comprehensive literature review, survey questionnaires, this research investigates numerous factors that affect job satisfaction of female academic staff. The study was adopted a quantitative-method approach to gather data from a diverse sample of female academic staff members from various state universities with structured questionnaire is administered to a representative sample of female academic staff to gather quantitative data on their job satisfaction levels and identify key factors influencing their contentment at work. Using 330 sample size for the research according to the morgan table and using smart pls software for the data analysis. Data analysis method is structural equation modelling. According to the study's findings, several major factors have a substantial impact on the job satisfaction of female academic staff members in state universities. When it comes to their overall job satisfaction, work-life balance stands out as a key factor, with many participants citing difficulties juggling their professional and personal obligations. The study also emphasizes the value of inclusive and encouraging work environments and employee dedication. The results of this study have broad repercussions. Institutional leaders and politicians can conduct targeted interventions to improve working conditions and promote a more inclusive and supportive environment by studying the factors impacting job satisfaction among female academic staff at state universities. With a particular focus on the experiences of female academic workers, this study adds to the body of knowledge on job satisfaction in academia.
Open Access
Identification of Some Major Research Gaps in Lean Manufacturing and Industry 4.0 Integration
(SLIIT Business School, 2023-12-14) Rajapaksha, S; Jayarathne, P.G.S.A; Galdolage, S
In the contemporary business world, digitalization has become a significant factor in economic development. Lean is a prominent topic in both academia and business. Due to the evolution of digital technologies that promote Industry 4.0 because of the industrial revolution, the integration of Lean Manufacturing and Industry 4.0 has attracted the attention of academics and managers. This conceptual paper discusses the integration of Lean Manufacturing and Industry 4.0, as well as the research gaps and prospective research opportunities related to integration. Systematic Literature Review (SLR) in the PRISMA framework has been used to identify research gaps, and future studies could be planned to close these gaps to benefit academia and industry stakeholders. Keyword co-occurrence analysis has been performed using VOSviewer software to identify areas that need the attention of researchers. Articles were extracted from the Scopus database using the keywords "Lean Manufacturing" and "Industry 4.0". This study concentrates on identifying research gaps that industry leaders and managers would be interested in, rather than the gaps in conceptual nature.
Open Access
Identifying the Factors Influencing Customer Satisfaction; A Case Study on ABC Bank PLC, Sri Lanka
(SLIIT Business School, 2023-12-14) Gunasekara, T. P. A. D.; Mendis, P. H. P. B.; Perera, H. G. N. D.; Malshan, U. B.; Rajapaksha Yapa, S; Kothalawala, C
This study aims to determine the specific factors that influence Customer Satisfaction in the banking sector of Sri Lanka because the economic growth and stability of a country depend on the soundness of its banking sector. The sole participants in this research are clients of ABC Bank in the Colombo district. The technique is based on primary data gathered using a wellstructured questionnaire. A hundred individuals were chosen at random from the database of ABC Bank. The respondents of the study are existing ABC Bank customers living in the Colombo district aged between 18-40 years. Descriptive statistics and correlation analysis were used in the examination of the data that was gathered. According to the findings, customer happiness may be affected by Service Quality, accessibility, product pricing, and e-banking. The management of the bank should determine the elements that might reduce Customer Satisfaction and work to improve them while simultaneously enhancing the variables that can boost customers.
Open Access
Impact of Dynamic Capabilities on Business Performance of SMEs during an Economic Crisis with reference to Western Province
(SLIIT Business School, 2023-12-14) Haputhanthri, H; Jayawickrama, U; Lakma, L; Sellahewa, E; Wisenthige, K; Jayathilake, T
The current economic crisis which is experiencing has a significant impact on the development and performance of most SMEs, making their existence even more susceptible. In the face of the current economic crisis, Dynamic capabilities (DCs) can be utilized as a survival mechanism to help organizations to increase the value of their businesses, get competitive advantages, and increase business performance in a changing business environment. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to analyze the impact of three dimensions of DCs which are sensing, seizing, and reconfiguring on the business performance of SMEs during this economic crisis. In addition, this study investigates how DCs could impact business performance through Information technology (IT) adoption as a moderator. The quantitative approach is adopted, where a cross sectional survey was utilized to collect primary data from SMEs. Findings of the study based on a sample of 380 SMEs in western province and stratified random sampling method was utilized to select participants. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used to analyze data by using Smart PLS 4 software. The results revealed that only sensing and reconfiguring capabilities have a significant impact on SMEs’ performance and IT adoption moderates the relationship between DCs and business performance during the economic crisis. Therefore, this study provides a great effort to quantitatively investigate the impact of three procedures of DCs and the moderate effect of IT adoption during the economic crisis. Furthermore, it conveys a better understanding of how SMEs could deploy their DCs to ensure higher levels of performance in periods of crisis. The results of this research will pave a path for them to successfully take effective strategic decision on the SMEs.
Open Access
Impact of Entrepreneurial Factors Influencing Social Commerce Adoption: Based on Sri Lankan Small and Medium Enterprises
(SLIIT Business School, 2023-12-14) Panditasekara, C.M.; Rasaputhra, S; Peiris, V; Navanjali, R; Wisenthige, K; Jayasuriya, N
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are required to understand social media and strategies for using social commerce for business expansions in this new digital era. SMEs are important to the economic growth of any country since they play a major role in most international economies. In the same manner, the COVID-19 pandemic has reformed people's mode of lifestyle and dealing with information. This study has led to the expansion of social commerce especially related to entrepreneurs and SME owners. This study focuses on the impact of entrepreneurial factors when adopting social commerce by SMEs in Sri Lanka. The framework has been developed with the factors of Attitude (AT), Innovativeness (IN), and IT Knowledge (IK) under the entrepreneurial factors. The present research conducted a thorough quantitative study of the impact of entrepreneurial factors when adopting social commerce by SMEs. The simple random sampling technique was utilized to select SMEs from the target population of SMEs listed at chambers of commerce. 384 SMEs in the Western Province were selected for the data analysis of this research. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was used to test the developed hypotheses. The results indicated that adopting social commerce in Sri Lankan SMEs is practical and hugely beneficial to all parties involved. Entrepreneurs who are interested in applying social commerce for their businesses will find the study to be insightful. The study's findings showed the importance of utilizing social commerce in daily business activities as most SME owners hold the belief of possessing the required knowledge, skills, and resources in their business operations on social media as the focal point with a special emphasis on entrepreneurial factors.
Open Access
Impact of Financial Literacy and Financial Distress on Financial Wellness among Public University Students in Sri Lanka
(SLIIT Business School, 2023-12-24) Senarathna, G. H. N.; Anuradha, P. A. N. S.
The term "financial wellness" is increasingly used to assess an individual's financial situation. Amidst a severe economic crisis in 2021 and 2022, Sri Lanka is grappling with significant challenges, including a scarcity of foreign currency, impending debt payments, inflation, and shortages of essential supplies. This crisis has particularly affected the younger generation, impacting both their education and businesses. Public university students in Sri Lanka face rising costs of living, including food, accommodation, transport, and educational materials. The financial crisis has exacerbated these challenges, limiting students' ability to meet their daily expenditures. While state universities offer free education, the quality and accessibility are constrained by severe competition and standardized programs. This study aims to examine the impact of financial literacy and financial distress on the financial wellness of public university students in Sri Lanka. Despite extensive international research on financial literacy, distress, and wellness, there is a notable gap in understanding these dynamics in the Sri Lankan context. Primary data collection involved distributing survey questionnaires to a randomly selected sample of public university students. The questionnaire assessed demographic information, financial literacy, financial distress, and financial wellness, totaling 61 questions. Data analysis was conducted using EVIEWS and Excel. The study found a strong positive relationship between financial literacy and financial wellness, supporting Hypothesis 01. While Hypothesis 02 suggested a negative relationship between financial distress and financial wellness, it was not statistically significant. However, Hypothesis 03 confirmed a significant combined impact of financial literacy and distress on financial wellness. Despite the economic challenges in Sri Lanka, public university students exhibit higher financial literacy and effective financial management. The study underscores the significant impact of financial literacy and distress on financial wellness, providing valuable insights for policymakers and educational institutions.
Open Access
Impact of Green Supply Chain Management Practices on Operational Performance in Logistics Companies in Sri Lanka
(SLIIT Business School, 2023-12-14) Kaushalya, C; Sahana, S; Wijenayake, O; Jayawardana, S; Karunarathna, N; Kalansuriya, N
To improve organizational performance and gain a competitive advantage, businesses today realize that environmental sustainability and becoming green are key basic principles. The objective of this study is to investigate how Green Supply Chain Management Practices (GSCMP) would affect the operational performance of logistics companies in Sri Lanka. A questionnaire was used to gather primary data from the sample, which consisted of 152 logistics companies. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software was used to analyze the data using multiple linear regression. According to the study's findings, green packaging and green transportation have a significant impact on operational performance, whereas green purchasing has no significant impact. The contribution of this study addresses a gap in existing literature concerning the combined analysis of green purchasing, green packaging, green warehousing, and green transportation variables in relation to their impact on operational performance in the Sri Lankan context. And it is the first study to focus specifically on the Sri Lankan logistics sector. Also, the study identifies GSCMP adoption limitations in the logistics sector and lays out the foundations for future research to address those barriers.
Open Access
The Impact of Service Quality and Weather Condition on Tourists’ Guest Night Stays in Coastal Area of Sri Lanka: Perspective of Tourists
(SLIIT Business School, 2023-12-14) Koralage, B; Fernando, T; Nilakshika, T; Madhavika, N; Jayasinghe, P; Ehalapitiya, S
This study aims to explore tourists' perceptions of service quality and weather condition of guest night stays in Sri Lanka and how they influence tourists’ decisions regarding the duration of their guest night stays. This study employed qualitative approach, having the data collected using purposive sampling. Researchers conducted in depth interviews with 18 foreign tourists in Colombo and Galle coastal area of Sri Lanka. The study revealed that both service quality and weather condition are significantly impacting tourists' decision of duration of guest night stays. Longer stays were associated with higher levels of service quality, emphasizing the pivotal role of service delivery in attracting and retaining tourists. In addition, weather condition was identified to be a major factor in determining guest night stays in the coastal area of Sri Lanka. This research offers valuable insights into Sri Lanka's coastal tourism, emphasizing the significance of excellent customer service and environmental responsibility in attracting and retaining tourists. The study's practical implications enable industry experts and policymakers to formulate strategies for promoting eco-friendly practices, ultimately enhancing the overall traveller experience in the coastal regions of Sri Lanka. By examining tourists' perceptions of service quality and weather condition's impact on guest night stays in Colombo and Galle coastal areas, this study contributes to existing literature on tourism in Sri Lanka. The results underscore the significance of sustainable practices and exceptional service in attracting visitors and fostering longer stays. Ultimately, these insights can aid in the formulation of effective plans to strengthen eco-friendly tourism and enhance Sri Lanka's appeal as a preferred destination for international travellers.
Open Access
Influence of IoT on Warehouse Management Performance in the Global Context: A Critical Literature Review
(SLIIT Business School, 2023-12-14) Perera, S; Pinto, A; Sewmini, H; Ulugalathenne, A; Thelijjagoda,S; Karunarathna,N
This systematic research paper explores the impact of Industry 4.0 technology, specifically the Internet of Things (IoT), on Warehouse Management Performance (WMP) in the worldwide logistics sector. IoT serves as a pivotal component in the paradigm shift towards Industry 4.0, facilitating the seamless storage, packaging, and distribution of commodities. By harnessing interconnected devices and data-driven insights, warehouses have undergone significant transformations since the inception of IoT technology. This study reviews state-of-theart literature on the influence of IoT on WMP, emphasizing the vital role warehouse operations play in ensuring the smooth functioning of the supply chain management process. Warehouse operations encompass aspects ranging from planning and layout to receiving, order picking, shipping, and distribution. To optimize warehouse operations, we conduct a comprehensive literature assessment using Scopus as our primary database. The findings from this systematic review indicate that the integration of IoT technologies such as RFID, QR codes, scanners, and Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) can substantially enhance warehouse management performance. These technologies provide real-time data, predictive maintenance, and improved inventory accuracy, resulting in increased operational efficiency, reduced operational expenses, and improved customer satisfaction. Additionally, the IoT framework combines big data, blockchain, cloud computing, and wireless sensor networks to tackle key challenges related to data storage, retrieval, and utilization. This integration significantly improves the effectiveness of the warehouse management process and facilitates data-driven decision-making. Furthermore, IoT's communication capabilities enhance efficiency and reduce costs in warehouse operations. In conclusion, this systematic review underscores the transformative potential of IoT technology in the global logistics sector. It highlights the importance of technological integration, data-driven decision-making, and smart packaging solutions. Recognizing the disruptive effects of IoT on the logistics industry, it emphasizes the need for companies to adopt and leverage IoT technologies to remain competitive and agile in the evolving global supply chain landscape.
Open Access
Influencing Factors of Resilience of Construction Supply Chains: A Case of SMEs in Sri Lanka
(SLIIT Business School, 2023-12-14) Manchanayake, M; Bandara, M; Sandhakirani, C; Bandara, W; Madhavika, N; Jayasinghe, M; Ehalapitiya, S
This research paper aims to explore the factors influencing supply chain resilience in Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) operating within Sri Lanka's construction industry during economic crises. The study employed a qualitative approach. Data were collected using purposive sampling with a sample size of eight SMEs in the construction sector registered under the National Enterprise Development Authority of Sri Lanka. Using structured interviews, data were collected, and the responses were analysed using the Manual Thematic analysis procedure. The study findings states that collaboration, entrepreneurial orientation, internal integration, and outsourcing have been the main factors that have contributed to making the Sri Lankan construction supply chains resilient during Economic crisis. Therefore, it is recommended for the construction firms to focus and improve the presence of these factors in their respective supply chains, to make the supply chains more resilient. This study's significance lies in its focus on construction SMEs in Sri Lanka, offering insights from the perspective of manufacturers, which has been relatively unexplored in existing resilience related research. Although some research articles do touch upon this area, mostly these studies have been conducted in developed nations. Thus, this study contributes to the scant Sri Lankan supply chain resilience literature. Sri Lanka is making strong efforts to support its economy to combat the economic downturn and stabilize. Therefore, the findings of this paper will undoubtedly be useful for the Sri Lankan construction sector while aiding the country to flourish again.
Open Access
Institutional Best Practices Amidst and Beyond the COVID-19: The Case of Higher Educational Institutes in Sri Lanka
(SLIIT Business School, 2023-12-24) Rathnayake, N; Weerasinghe, A; Weerasinghe, N; Kumarasinghe, J
COVID-19 is a blessing for the higher education industry in developing nations since it has accelerated the digitization of higher education. Education is essential to transforming people into human capital. The COVID-19 restrictions on physically entering educational institutions gave boost to the biggest educational disaster in the world. The objective of this study is to investigate the best practices employed by the Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Sri Lanka to enhance university academic role both amid and beyond the pandemic. The technique of nonprobability purposive sampling was employed, and the results were then analyzed thematically. Best practices in academic research and knowledge dissemination fields, and teaching have been recognized by the study from the viewpoint of the HEIs. Beyond the pandemic, virtual laboratories, concurrent delivery, and hybrid deliveries are still in use, while academic research and knowledge dissemination are being digitalized and exposed to a global audience. The shift from traditional classrooms to the distance learning environment in developing nations has accelerated the process of meeting the sustainable development objective of high-quality education by 2030. As a result, policymakers in these nations can emphasize digitally enabling the higher education sector.
Open Access
Investigating the Connections between Alcohol Use, Mental Health, and Undergraduate Academic Achievement in Sri Lanka
(SLIIT Business School, 2023-12-14) Vandhana, R.D; Anuja, A.L; Zuha, A.R.F; Samarasinghe, S.L; Sannasooriya, K.H; Jafzan, M.J.A
Alcohol and mental health problems are becoming more common among university students. During university activities, students use alcohol to ease the pressure on their mental freedom. The primary goal of this study is to have a look at how alcohol usage and depression affect university students' academic performance. Students face issues like skipping classes, late assignments, and dropping GPA due to substance abuse and mental health issues. The main purpose of this research is to investigate how alcohol use and mental health affect the academic performance of university students. A mixed-method approach was used, including online questionnaires, surveys, and interviews. The study found a significant link between binge alcohol consumption and academic performance, with factors like peer influence, coping mechanisms, and academic stress influencing this relationship. The study emphasizes the need for universities to address this relationship and recommends measures and awareness programs to reduce stress and improve student health in Sri Lanka. The study analyses data using correlation and thematic analyses and utilizes the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) to determine alcohol intake levels.