Bridging Innovation: GreenSpark Workshop Series – Workshop 1 was successfully organized by the FOUNTAIN Project – University of Ruhuna Team under the theme “Building Partnerships that Power Agri-Innovation.” As the inaugural event of the GreenSpark Workshop Series, the workshop brought together students, academics, researchers, alumni, entrepreneurs, and industry representatives to strengthen university–industry collaboration and accelerate innovation in Sri Lanka’s agricultural sector.

The event featured an inspiring keynote address, interactive dialogue sessions, and an engaging industry panel discussion. The industry representatives included:

• Saliya Gamage – Senior Nutrition Advisor, Nestlé Lanka Limited
• Vidura Gamage – Director / Chief Operating Officer, CIC Holdings PLC
• Chathura Viduranga – Sales Manager, CIC Holdings PLC

These industry leaders shared valuable perspectives on market needs, research commercialization, entrepreneurship, and building sustainable partnerships between universities and industry. Discussions also explored global research opportunities, future workforce skills, innovation ecosystems, and strategies for translating academic research into real-world solutions.

By creating opportunities for meaningful dialogue, knowledge exchange, and networking between academia and industry, the workshop fostered new collaborations that will contribute to sustainable agricultural development, innovation, and stronger university–industry partnerships in Sri Lanka.