A transformative initiative has taken root in Sri Lanka’s educational landscape with the establishment of The Academy of Leadership, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship Excellence (TALIEE). This newly inaugurated institution is poised to reshape the future of entrepreneurship and leadership development by pioneering entrepreneurship programmes delivered in both Sinhala and Tamil—a first for the nation. This significant step aims to broaden access to high-quality entrepreneurial education, thereby nurturing a more diverse and robust community of business leaders and innovators across Sri Lanka.
Over a quarter of a century of dedicated experience in advancing entrepreneurship education within the country deeply embeds the educational ethos of TALIEE. This extensive expertise is brought to the forefront under the guidance of the widely recognized entrepreneurship guru, Professor Shyaman Udayanga. His decades-long commitment to fostering entrepreneurial talent in Sri Lanka forms the bedrock of TALIEE’s innovative approach. Professor Udayanga’s vision for the academy centers on moving beyond conventional academic instruction to cultivate individuals who possess not only theoretical knowledge but also the pragmatic skills necessary to succeed in the dynamic world of business.
At the heart of TALIEE’s pedagogical approach lies a strong commitment to practical and outcome-oriented learning. The academy’s curricula are meticulously crafted to fuse authentic business experiences with rigorous theoretical frameworks. This integrated methodology ensures that learners acquire a comprehensive understanding of entrepreneurial principles while simultaneously gaining invaluable insights into the practicalities of operating and excelling within competitive market environments. By effectively bridging the divide between academic learning and real-world application, TALIEE endeavors to empower its students with the tangible capabilities required to launch, manage, and expand successful enterprises.
Recognizing the varied aspirations and developmental stages of individuals embarking on or advancing their entrepreneurial journeys, TALIEE offers a comprehensive spectrum of programmes. These initiatives are designed to cater to a wide demographic, encompassing recent school leavers exploring entrepreneurial avenues, aspiring entrepreneurs seeking foundational knowledge and mentorship, and established business proprietors aiming to refine their leadership acumen and propel further organizational growth. This inclusive strategy underscores TALIEE’s dedication to cultivating entrepreneurial potential across all levels of experience and expertise.
The inspiration for TALIEE’s groundbreaking educational paradigm is drawn from an innovative model for entrepreneurship education previously pioneered at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura under the leadership of Professor Udayanga. TALIEE builds upon this established success, amplifying its emphasis on experiential and results-driven learning methodologies. The institute is committed to providing students with firsthand exposure to business realities alongside rigorous academic study, thereby equipping them not only to navigate but also to flourish within the complexities of the contemporary business landscape.
The official inauguration of TALIEE took place on March 11th in Homagama, marking the formal commencement of its significant mission. The ceremony was honored by the presence of the Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, the Honourable Sunil Handunnetti, who graced the occasion as the chief guest, alongside the Ministry Secretary, Ms. Thilaka Jayasundara. Their attendance highlighted the government’s acknowledgement of the pivotal role of entrepreneurship in national progress and the importance of institutions like TALIEE in driving economic advancement and fostering a culture of innovation.
By uniquely offering entrepreneurship education in both Sinhala and Tamil, coupled with a pragmatic and results-focused educational philosophy shaped by extensive industry expertise, the Academy of Leadership, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship Excellence is poised to revolutionize the landscape of entrepreneurship and leadership education in Sri Lanka. By ensuring accessibility to quality education in local languages and prioritizing real-world application, TALIEE is set to cultivate a new cohort of skilled Sri Lankan entrepreneurs and business leaders, fostering innovation, generating economic opportunities, and shaping a prosperous future for the nation. The institute’s launch signifies a crucial step forward in Sri Lanka’s journey toward building a vibrant and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem.
