Research Publications Authored by SLIIT Staff

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This collection includes all SLIIT staff publications presented at external conferences and published in external journals. The materials are organized by faculty to facilitate easy retrieval.

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Now showing 1 - 10 of 137

Open Access
Management and safe disposal of unwanted medicines in community pharmacies in Sri Lanka
(Frontiers Media SA, 2026-07-10) Perera, C; Herath, R
Introduction – Pharmaceutical pollutants, such as antibiotics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), have been detected in Sri Lankan waterways. These contaminants may arise from multiple sources, including community pharmacy disposal practices. This raises concerns that improper disposal of unwanted medicines poses an increasing risk to the environment and public health. Community pharmacies—both chain and independent pharmacies—serve as the final point in the pharmaceutical supply chain at the community level and play a crucial role in managing the disposal of unwanted medicines. This study aimed to explore the current practices, factors influencing these practices, and strategies for improving the management and safe disposal of unwanted medicines in community pharmacies in Sri Lanka. Methods – A qualitative research design was adopted. Semi-structured interviews using the validated interview guide were conducted with the participants. The participants primarily comprised the community pharmacists representing both chain and independent pharmacies operating in the Western Province of Sri Lanka. Participants were selected through purposive sampling. Interviews were conducted until data saturation was achieved. Using the thematic analysis, emerging reporting patterns within the data were identified. Results – The study identified four main themes: current disposal and waste management practices; factors influencing and limiting disposal practices; perceptions and attitudes toward disposal responsibility; and recommendations for improvement. Community pharmacies use various methods for medicine disposal and pharmaceutical waste management. Their practices are primarily influenced by the absence of proper medicine collection mechanisms, weak regulation, limited awareness, and inadequate disposal facilities. Pharmacists suggested implementing a well-structured medicine collection system, strengthening laws, and conducting awareness programs to minimize pharmaceutical waste. Discussion – Although a regulatory framework exists for pharmaceutical waste management, implementation and monitoring within community pharmacies, particularly independent pharmacies, remain limited. Furthermore, these pharmacies have fewer facilities to carry out safe drug disposal practices. Research revealed the need for improved infrastructure, tighter regulatory supervision, and increased awareness programs to address these challenges. Implementing a well-coordinated national medicine collection program and improving awareness of safe medicine disposal are important measures for protecting the environment and public health.
Embargo
Digital gig workers vs. artificial intelligence – a battle of the wits
(Emerald Publishing, 2026-04-18) Kelly, S. N; Wisenthige, K; Perera, L
Purpose – This article investigates in depth Sri Lankan gig workers' varying attitudes towards AI amid a hyper-digital world and its role of reshaping work patterns in developing economies. By exploring platform work transformations, it provides critical insights to guide equitable social policy and labour protections. Design/methodology/approach – This article is a qualitative study which utilises a semi-structured interview series consisting of fourteen platform-based gig workers across diverse professions, employing purposive sampling method to collect data and NVivo to run the analysis. Institutional ethical approval was obtained and ensured participant informed consent, anonymity and voluntary withdrawal rights throughout the interviews. Findings – This study assesses divergent AI attitudes among Sri Lankan gig workers: optimism towards efficiency gains, ambivalence regarding ethical trade-offs and pessimism concerning skill erosion. Segmentation occurs primarily by occupational specialisation, revealing patterning: IT gig workers embracing pragmatic efficiency while creatives defend identity-based skillsets. Given AI's structural impacts, proactive social policies leveraging gig worker insights are suggested to promote multiple sustainable development goals in emerging digital economies. Originality/value – This exploratory study examines AI attitudes through the lenses of Sri Lanka gig workers, suggesting occupational divergence (IT pragmatism versus creative resistance) in the nation's digital gig economy. It offers contextual empirical insights from gig workers lived experiences in the Global South, extending global AI research beyond existing GenAI and algorithmic management studies, which predominantly focus on quantitative analysis or ride-hailing platforms.
Open Access
Integration of industry 4.0 technologies to overcome lean manufacturing barriers in Sri Lanka’s apparel sector
(Emerald Publishing, 2026-12-14) Silva, Niranga; Hettiarachchi, D. I; Perera, P; Perera, C
urpose – This study aims to examine how Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies can enable Lean Manufacturing (LM) practices in Sri Lanka’s apparel industry. Although LM has been widely adopted to improve efficiency and reduce waste, persistent barriers such as frequent product changes, limited real-time visibility and infrastructural constraints have restricted its full potential. The purpose of this research is to explore how advanced digital solutions, including Internet of Things (IoT), real-time analytics and augmented/virtual reality (AR/VR), can address these barriers and enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of apparel manufacturing in a dynamic global market. Design/methodology/approach – A qualitative single-case study design was used to provide an in-depth understanding of digital–lean integration. The research was conducted in collaboration with a leading Sri Lankan apparel manufacturer. Data were collected through on-site factory observations, semi-structured interviews with managers and employees and examination of company records. Using Yin’s (2018) case study methodology as a guiding framework, the study analyzed how selected I4.0 technologies were implemented alongside lean tools and how these interventions addressed identified operational inefficiencies. Findings – The study found that I4.0-enabled solutions significantly enhanced lean practices by improving production workflow transparency, defect detection and downtime reduction. Tools such as IoT-linked dashboards, electronic Kanban systems and automated performance monitoring minimized non-value-adding activities and reduced bottlenecks. AR/VR applications demonstrated potential for training and machine setup, while predictive maintenance improved equipment reliability. However, the research also identified persistent shortcomings, including data confidentiality issues, workforce adaptability challenges and high capital investment requirements. The findings highlight both the opportunities and practical limitations of integrating digital technologies into lean environments. Research limitations/implications – The research was limited to a single case study of a large apparel manufacturer in Sri Lanka, which constrains the generalizability of findings. Data confidentiality policies restricted access to detailed financial information, preventing quantitative analysis of productivity gains and return on investment. Future studies could extend this research by including multiple firms across varying scales and geographies, enabling comparative insights. Broader empirical studies that quantify the financial outcomes of digital–lean integration would provide further validation and support for industry-wide adoption. Practical implications – For practitioners, the study offers a roadmap for integrating I4.0 technologies with lean practices in apparel manufacturing. The evidence suggests that digital lean tools can enhance transparency, improve workflow efficiency and support more accurate decision-making. Managers should prioritize investments in IoT-enabled monitoring, predictive maintenance and digital visual management systems while addressing workforce readiness through training programs. Attention must also be given to cybersecurity and change management to ensure sustainable implementation. These findings are particularly relevant for resource-constrained firms seeking to maximize operational efficiency while navigating global competitive pressures. Social implications – The integration of I4.0 and LM in Sri Lanka’s apparel sector holds broader social benefits by safeguarding employment in a critical export industry that provides livelihoods for over 300, 000 workers. Enhanced productivity and competitiveness contribute to economic stability and foreign exchange earnings. Moreover, digital lean practices can reduce waste, contributing to environmental sustainability and aligning with global sustainable development goals. By strengthening the resilience of the apparel sector, these advancements can help sustain jobs and improve working conditions, particularly in developing country contexts where apparel remains a cornerstone of industrial growth. Originality/value – This study provides one of the first in-depth examinations of how I4.0 technologies can act as enablers of LM in the Sri Lankan apparel industry. Unlike prior studies that treat lean and digital transformation as separate trajectories, this research highlights their synergies and tradeoffs in practice. By capturing both the benefits and shortcomings of digital lean tools, the paper contributes to theory by extending understanding of lean–I4.0 integration in emerging economy contexts. It also offers practical value by providing industry-specific insights that can inform managers’ strategic decisions on digital transformation.
Embargo
E-commerce success redefined: integrating information systems and customer empowerment for e-customer engagement
(Emerald Publishing, 2026-03-17) Boyagoda, G; Thalagala, S.M; Pathirana, S.L; Jeewantha, S; Wisenthige, K
Purpose – This study aims to explore the impact of system quality, information quality, service quality and customer empowerment on customer satisfaction and e-commerce success in Sri Lanka, focusing on Millennials and Generation Z. By integrating the DeLone and McLean Information Systems Success (D&M ISS) model with customer empowerment theory, the research seeks to provide insights into the key drivers of e-customer engagement in e-commerce. Design/methodology/approach – A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 413 respondents employing the purposive sampling technique. The data collection instrument comprised 32 questions related to system quality, information quality, service quality, customer empowerment and customer satisfaction, as well as demographic questions. The data were analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). Findings – The results revealed that the system quality, information quality and service quality significantly influence customer satisfaction and intention to use the system in the context of e-commerce, which leads to higher customer engagement. Furthermore, the findings substantiate the crucial role that customer empowerment plays in terms of increasing customer satisfaction. Research limitations/implications – This study focuses on Millennials and Generation Z e-customers in Sri Lanka. It provides insights into this demographic, but does not capture the diverse cultural and technological landscape of the entire country. The study examines Information System (IS) dimensions and customer empowerment, excluding other significant variables like overall customer engagement. Self-reported data may introduce biases, and future research with larger sample sizes and different methods could improve the validity. Focusing on four selected online shopping platforms may limit the applicability as the e-commerce landscape is continuously evolving. Practical implications – The findings offer guidance to e-commerce businesses and policymakers to enhance their digital services and customer satisfaction. Businesses can improve their system quality with intuitive designs, offering accurate information to boost engagement and deliver excellent service quality. Initiatives such as interactive tools, loyalty programs and tailored support can empower customers, fostering a stronger impact. Policymakers can support e-commerce growth by improving regulations and providing training programs. These measures contribute to a more efficient and satisfying online shopping experience, driving long-term customer loyalty and business growth. Social implications – The research emphasises the role of customer empowerment in fostering customer engagement, contributing to the growth of the digital economy and enhancing online shopping experiences. Originality/value – This research enhances the academic understanding of e-commerce success by strengthening the DeLone and McLean Information Systems Success model by adding the concept of customer empowerment. This unique improvement is applied in the context of Sri Lanka, an emerging market with its own socio-economic characteristics. This addition provides new insights into key factors affecting e-customer engagement in the e-commerce sector.
Embargo
Expanding STEM education in low- and middle-income countries: Evidence from policy reforms in Sri Lanka
(Elsevier Ltd, 2026-03-01) Priyadarshana, I
Governments in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are increasingly investing in STEM education to enhance youth employability and economic growth. Yet, the success of such initiatives depends on students’ responses, which are shaped by their perceptions, motivations, and institutional context. This study examines the effectiveness of two parallel government interventions in Sri Lanka aimed at increasing high school enrollment in STEM subjects: (1) introducing a new Technology stream and (2) upgrading selected schools to offer the Science stream. Using nationwide school census data from 2008 to 2021 and a Difference-in-Differences approach, the study compares the impacts of these interventions on student enrollment patterns across STEM and non-STEM majors. The results show that the introduction of the Technology stream had a significantly larger impact on increasing STEM enrollment and reducing non-STEM enrollments—especially among male students and those in provincial schools—compared to the Science stream intervention. The study draws on education economics and psychological theories to explain these differences, highlighting the roles of perceived returns, self-efficacy, and student interest orientation. The findings underscore the need for STEM policies to align with both student characteristics and broader systemic structures. Insights from Sri Lanka may be relevant to other LMICs where educational reforms must navigate stratified school systems, constrained resources, and persistent gender disparities in STEM participation.
Open Access
Integration of industry 4.0 technologies to overcome lean manufacturing barriers in Sri Lanka’s apparel sector
(Emerald Publishing, 2026-02-09) Silva, N; Hettiarachchi, D. I; Perera, P; Perera, C
Purpose – This study aims to examine how Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies can enable Lean Manufacturing (LM) practices in Sri Lanka’s apparel industry. Although LM has been widely adopted to improve efficiency and reduce waste, persistent barriers such as frequent product changes, limited real-time visibility and infrastructural constraints have restricted its full potential. The purpose of this research is to explore how advanced digital solutions, including Internet of Things (IoT), real-time analytics and augmented/virtual reality (AR/VR), can address these barriers and enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of apparel manufacturing in a dynamic global market. Design/methodology/approach – A qualitative single-case study design was used to provide an in-depth understanding of digital–lean integration. The research was conducted in collaboration with a leading Sri Lankan apparel manufacturer. Data were collected through on-site factory observations, semi-structured interviews with managers and employees and examination of company records. Using Yin’s (2018) case study methodology as a guiding framework, the study analyzed how selected I4.0 technologies were implemented alongside lean tools and how these interventions addressed identified operational inefficiencies. Findings – The study found that I4.0-enabled solutions significantly enhanced lean practices by improving production workflow transparency, defect detection and downtime reduction. Tools such as IoT-linked dashboards, electronic Kanban systems and automated performance monitoring minimized non-value-adding activities and reduced bottlenecks. AR/VR applications demonstrated potential for training and machine setup, while predictive maintenance improved equipment reliability. However, the research also identified persistent shortcomings, including data confidentiality issues, workforce adaptability challenges and high capital investment requirements. The findings highlight both the opportunities and practical limitations of integrating digital technologies into lean environments. Research limitations/implications – The research was limited to a single case study of a large apparel manufacturer in Sri Lanka, which constrains the generalizability of findings. Data confidentiality policies restricted access to detailed financial information, preventing quantitative analysis of productivity gains and return on investment. Future studies could extend this research by including multiple firms across varying scales and geographies, enabling comparative insights. Broader empirical studies that quantify the financial outcomes of digital–lean integration would provide further validation and support for industry-wide adoption. Practical implications – For practitioners, the study offers a roadmap for integrating I4.0 technologies with lean practices in apparel manufacturing. The evidence suggests that digital lean tools can enhance transparency, improve workflow efficiency and support more accurate decision-making. Managers should prioritize investments in IoT-enabled monitoring, predictive maintenance and digital visual management systems while addressing workforce readiness through training programs. Attention must also be given to cybersecurity and change management to ensure sustainable implementation. These findings are particularly relevant for resource-constrained firms seeking to maximize operational efficiency while navigating global competitive pressures. Social implications – The integration of I4.0 and LM in Sri Lanka’s apparel sector holds broader social benefits by safeguarding employment in a critical export industry that provides livelihoods for over 300, 000 workers. Enhanced productivity and competitiveness contribute to economic stability and foreign exchange earnings. Moreover, digital lean practices can reduce waste, contributing to environmental sustainability and aligning with global sustainable development goals. By strengthening the resilience of the apparel sector, these advancements can help sustain jobs and improve working conditions, particularly in developing country contexts where apparel remains a cornerstone of industrial growth. Originality/value – This study provides one of the first in-depth examinations of how I4.0 technologies can act as enablers of LM in the Sri Lankan apparel industry. Unlike prior studies that treat lean and digital transformation as separate trajectories, this research highlights their synergies and tradeoffs in practice. By capturing both the benefits and shortcomings of digital lean tools, the paper contributes to theory by extending understanding of lean–I4.0 integration in emerging economy contexts. It also offers practical value by providing industry-specific insights that can inform managers’ strategic decisions on digital transformation.
Embargo
Accessibility and usability of virtual learning platforms: Lived experiences of visually impaired undergraduates in Sri Lanka
(Elsevier Ltd, 2026-03-12) Rajapakshe, W; Wickramaarachchi, C; Alwis, M.K. S.S; Amarasinghe, A.A. M.L; Jayasekara, P.N; Jayasekara, P.T
This study explores the accessibility and usability of virtual learning platforms of visually impaired undergraduate students in Sri Lanka, focusing on their lived experiences, use of assistive technologies, and institutional support mechanisms. As online learning becomes increasingly prevalent, accessibility and inclusive challenges persist, particularly in developing countries with limited infrastructure and institutional support. Despite the availability of assistive technologies, visually impaired learners frequently encounter barriers, including poorly designed platforms, limited usability of screen readers, and inadequate institutional guidance. Addressing a critical research gap, this study investigates how visually impaired undergraduates experience and navigates virtual learning environments to identify accessibility barriers, enabling practices, and context-specific strategies for inclusive digital learning. Using a qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with fifteen visually impaired university students across Sri Lanka. Thematic analysis revealed five core themes: barriers and challenges to effective virtual learning, preferred virtual platforms, accessibility features and tools, facilitators of learning success, and strategies to optimise the learning environment. These findings illuminate how systemic inequalities, infrastructural limitations, and institutional neglect collectively constrain the digital learning experience for visually impaired students, while also highlighting enabling practices that foster access and inclusion. The study's originality lies in foregrounding student-led insights in a developing country context and integrating practical, context-specific recommendations for platform developers, educators, and policymakers. By centering the voices of visually impaired learners, this research contributes unique and actionable knowledge to the field of inclusive digital education.
Embargo
Long-term recovery from the 2004 Indian ocean tsunami in two Sri Lankan east coast municipalities
(Elsevier Ltd, 2026-01) Thamboo, J; Josiah, R; Saja, A; Salah, P; Rossetto, T; Dias, P
Sri Lanka was the second most affected country after Indonesia, in the 2004 Boxing Day Indian Ocean tsunami (IOT). A study mission was therefore carried out twenty years after the 2004 IOT to assess the recovery of the affected regions, especially in the Eastern region of Sri Lanka, focusing on two of the most affected municipalities, i.e. Kalmunai and Batticaloa. The social and infrastructure characteristics of resettlements/relocations/new settlements in the affected regions, presence of critical infrastructure, preparedness and early warning systems installed have been assessed. It was observed that similar approaches have been adopted to plan the community relocation in both of these municipalities, while the significant reemergence of residential and commercial developments in the coastal stretches of Kalmunai municipality have been noted. Exposure analyses have revealed that there are still some critical infrastructure situated in the tsunami hazard zones. It can be construed that these municipalities have recovered from the physical losses incurred, and spatial planning is in place for future developments considering the tsunami risk. Challenges and opportunities from their differing geographical contexts appear to have been judiciously handled. However, shortcomings are noted in actual implementation due to various reasons, such as limited resources, availability of funding and preference of communities to live close to their original lands. Improving the resilience of infrastructure by designing against the expected tsunami hazard and multi-hazards, regular verification of the early warning systems and evacuation procedures are emphasized to mitigate the impacts from future tsunami.
Open Access
Enhancing Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) performance: Analyzing the role of human resource practices in Sri Lanka’s telecommunication industry through Lewin’s change management model
(Public Library of Science, 2025-01-10) Pubodhya S.H.N.; Rajapakshe, W
This study explores the integration of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) education in Sri Lanka, utilizing the Health Belief Model (HBM) to predict the perceived quality of SRH education among non-state undergraduate students. In many Asian countries, including Sri Lanka, cultural resistance and skepticism often challenge SRH education initiatives. The research is based on a questionnaire survey, examining factors influencing the perceived quality of SRH education, such as cultural norms, embarrassment, attitudes, awareness, and institutional support. In recent years, the Sri Lankan telecom industry has experienced significant expansion and transformation, leading to a notable increase in mergers and acquisitions (M&A). This study investigates the impact of human resource practices on M&A performance, utilizing Lewin’s Change Management Model as a framework. The research is based on a questionnaire survey, examining factors influencing the performance of M&A in Sri Lanka Telecom industry, such as communication (Unfreeze), training (Change), leadership (Refreeze), and performance (M&A outcomes). Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) reveals that communication significantly influences training (β = 0.800), while training has a strong effect on leadership (β = 1.062), both directly and indirectly via communication (β = 0.850). Additionally, performance is positively impacted by training (β = 0.819) and leadership (β = 0.459), with communication exerting a substantial indirect influence on performance (β = 0.655). These results underscore the necessity for an integrated approach that enhances organizational performance and adaptability in an evolving business landscape. To optimize M&A outcomes, organizations are encouraged to prioritize leadership development, invest in comprehensive training programs, and align communication strategies effectively. This research contributes valuable insights into the management of change within the telecom sector, promoting sustainable growth and success in future M&A endeavours.
Open Access
Sri Lankan SMEs’ Performance Through Cloud Computing Adoption: An SEM-ANN Analysis
(Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc., 2025-04-25) Nawaz, S.S; Thelijjagoda, S
This study identifies the determinants of cloud computing adoption and its effect on the performance of Sri Lankan small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework, Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), and individual context were used to derive the study variables. This quantitative cross-sectional study adopted items from previous validated studies. Google Form was employed to collect data, and 418 responses were received from Sri Lankan SMEs. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) via SmartPLS 4 and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) analysis via IBM SPSS 29 were used for data analysis. Based on the results, all hypotheses are confirmed except for one, and SME performance is significantly affected by cloud computing adoption. This study adds to the existing empirical evidence on cloud computing adoption by introducing an all-inclusive model that integrates the TOE, TAM, and individual factors. This demonstrates the effectiveness of the PLS-SEM/ANN hybrid methodology in analysing the determinants of cloud computing adoption. The significance of top management as a factor is highlighted by providing training and education to employees. Managers can benefit from this result by improving cloud computing adoption among SMEs in Sri Lanka. This is the first study of its kind in Sri Lanka, integrating the TOE, TAM, and individual variables and using a hybrid methodology combining PLS-SEM and ANN.

Research Publications Authored by SLIIT Staff

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