OCTAVE and University of Moratuwa Forge Strategic Partnership to Empower the Future Data Analytics Talent

OCTAVE, the John Keells Group’s Data and Advanced Analytics Centre of Excellence is pleased to announce its collaboration with the Department of Computer Science and Engineering of the esteemed University of Moratuwa, in Sri Lanka. This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) solidifies the mutual commitment to foster a symbiotic relationship that will accelerate the growth of data and advanced analytics capabilities and cultivate a pool of skilled professionals in the field.

As a leading institution dedicated to advancing data analytics in Sri Lanka, OCTAVE recognises the significance of nurturing strong ties with academic partners. The Group’s Chairperson, Krishan Balendra, had this to say

“With the ever-evolving technology and advanced analytics landscape, it is vital that we equip the next generation with the skill set to succeed in this field. The partnership with the University of Moratuwa is a strategic step towards institutionalising a closer collaboration with the dynamic talent pool available within the university network and aligns with our vision of building a robust advanced analytics ecosystem in Sri Lanka. By combining OCTAVE’s industry experience and the University of Moratuwa’s academic excellence, we can empower these undergraduates, cultivate talent, and drive innovation.”

Among the several avenues of collaboration, the partnership enables OCTAVE to engage talented and enthusiastic undergraduates from the University of Moratuwa as interns who will have the opportunity to work alongside OCTAVE's experienced professionals, gaining invaluable industry exposure and hands-on experience in Data Science, Machine Learning Engineering, Data Engineering, BI Engineering and Delivery of advanced analytics use cases. Additionally, OCTAVE’s presence at the various Career Fairs organised by the university will provide students with valuable insights into the exciting world of data analytics and the career prospects it holds.

Parallelly, OCTAVE will work closely with the University of Moratuwa to strengthen its curriculum related to data analytics including the specific fields of Data Science, Machine Learning Engineering and Data Engineering. By incorporating industry best practices and emerging trends, the partnership will help ensure that students are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills demanded by the rapidly evolving data and advanced analytics landscape. OCTAVE's seasoned professionals will also serve as guest lecturers and supervisors for final year projects undertaken by students at the University of Moratuwa.

"We are excited about the opportunities this partnership brings," said Professor N. D. Gunawardena, Vice- Chancellor of the University of Moratuwa. "Working closely with OCTAVE will provide our students with invaluable industry exposure and help bridge the gap between academia and industry. We look forward to co- creating impactful initiatives and contributing to the growth of the data analytics landscape in Sri Lanka."

The collaboration between OCTAVE and the University of Moratuwa reflects a shared commitment to nurturing and empowering the next generation of data and advanced analytics professionals. Through this partnership, both organisations aim to contribute to the development of a robust data analytics ecosystem in Sri Lanka, fostering innovation and driving socio-economic growth.

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John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH), is the largest conglomerate listed on the Colombo Stock Exchange, operating with over 70 companies in 7 diverse industry sectors. With a history of over 150 years, John Keells Group provides employment to over 14,000 persons and has been ranked as Sri Lanka's 'Most Respected Entity' for the last 17 Years by LMD magazine. John Keells Holdings PLC was ranked first for the third consecutive year in the 'Transparency in Corporate Reporting Assessment' by Transparency International Sri Lanka. Whilst being a full member ofthe World Economic Forum and a participant of the UN Global Compact, JKH drives its CSR vision of “Empowering the Nation for Tomorrow” through John Keells Foundation and through the social entrepreneurship initiative, ‘Plasticcycle’, which is a catalyst in significantly reducing plastic pollution in Sri Lanka.

Media Contact Person:

Sahan Perera
Head of Talent and Employer Branding — OCTAVE Mobile: +94 772942628
Email: sahan.jkh@keells.com