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Agribusiness Management

Our Mission

We are geared to develop students' analytical, business and entrepreneurial skills to produce agro-entrepreneurs and agribusiness managers for the present and future. Our department and subjects are ranked excellent by the University Grants Commission of Sri Lanka. We also conduct an External Degree and Diploma Programme in Agribusiness Management.

History

The Department of Agribusiness Management was established in 1996 to encourage and provide facilities for undergraduate study and research in keeping with the needs of the agribusiness sector. The undergraduate program in Agribusiness Management is the first of its kind in a Sri Lankan university system. The program aims to equip students with the intellectual capacity enabling them to undertake research in all major branches of Agribusiness Management. Undergraduate studies of the Department comprise of areas such as Agribusiness Management, Agricultural Economics, Marketing, Business Management, Statistics, Agricultural Extension and Information Technology. The eightsemester undergraduate course designed for undergraduates who wish to train in agribusiness related disciplines at undergraduate level are conducted with an innovative approach by giving much emphasis on practical aspects relevant to the agribusiness sector.

The Department has newly introduced B.Sc. Food Business Management Degree Program in 2017. This degree programme offers a unique opportunity to acquire a comprehensive training in food business management and marketing.

The Department of Agribusiness Management is the pioneer in introducing the concept of Agri Tourism into the Sri Lanka. The Agric-farm Stay situated in the faculty farm is managed by the department.

Curriculum

Year I Semeter I
Code Subject No. Credits

AB 11012

Mathematics

02

AB 11022

Principles of Management

02

AG 11020

Sri Lankan Studies and Current Affairs

00

AG 11030

Personality Development

00

 

Year I Semeter II
Code Subject No. Credits

AB 12012

Applied Statistics

02

AB 12022

Microeconomics

02

AG 12020

World Studies and Current Affairs

00

 

Year II Semester I
Code Subject No. Credits

AB 21012

Experimental and Survey Designs

02

 

Year II Semester II
Code Subject No. credits

AB 22012

Agricultural Extension

02

AB 22022

Macroeconomics

02

AB 22032

Human Resource Management

02

AB 22042

Fundamentals of Accounting

02

 

Year III Semester I
Code Subject No. Credits

AB31013

Agribusiness Management

03
AB31023

 

Business Law

03

AB31033

Business Communication

03

AB31042

Entrepreneurship

02

AB31053

Marketing Management

03

AB31061

Agribusiness Venture Creation I

01

AB31072

Agricultural Finance

02

AG31010

English for Academic Purposes - V

00

AG31020

Statistical Applications I

00

AG31080

General Knowledge and Awareness in Agribusiness World

00

 

Year III Semester II
Code Subject No. credits

AB 32012

Agricultural Marketing

02

AB 32023

Managerial Economics

03

AB 32034

Business Research Methods

04

AB 32042

Organizational Behavior and Dynamics

02

AB 32052

Agribusiness Venture Creation II

02

AB 32063

Rural Business

03

AB 32072

Innovation Management

02

AB 32082

Value Chain Management

02

AB 32092

Food Safety and Quality Management

02

AB 32102

Marketing Communication

02

AG 32010

English for Academic Purposes - VI

00

AG 32020

Statistical Applications II

00

 

Year IV Semester I
Code Subject No. Credits

AB 41012

Strategic Human Resource Management 02

AB 41023

International Business Trade 03
AB 41032 Agribusiness Venture Creation III 02
AB 41041 Research Project I 01
AB 41053 Practical Communication Skills 03
AB 41063 Agri Tourism 03

AB 41073

Quality Management and Product Certification 03
AB 41083 Strategic Management 03
AB 41093 Energy Management 03
AB 41103 Quantitative Techniques in Agribusiness 03

 

Year IV Semester II
Code Subject No.credits
AB 42012

Industrial Training

02
AB 42025 Research Project II 05
Year I Semester I
Code Subject No. Credits
FBM11012 Principles of Management 02
FBM11022 Principles of Marketing 02
FBM11032 Principles of Economics 02
FBM11044 Fundamentals of Food Science & Introduction to Food Industry 04
FBM11053 Mathematics 03
FBM11062 Principles of Human Resource Management 02
AG 11030 English  I 00
AG 11040 Computer Science I 00
AG 11010 Personality Development 00
AG 11020 Sri Lankan Studies and Current Affairs 00
 
Year I Semester II
Code Subject No. Credits
FBM 12013 Marketing Management 03
FBM 12023 Marketing Communication in Food Business 03
FBM 12033 Fundamentals of Human Nutrition 03
FBM 12043 Applied Statistics 03
FBM 12053 Fundamentals of Food processing Technologies 03
AG 12010 English  II 00
AG 12030 Computer Science II 00
AG 12020 World Studies and Current Affairs 00
 
Year II Semester I
Code Subject No.Credits
FBM21013 Consumer Behavior in Food Marketing 03
FBM21023 Human Resources in Food Business 03
FBM21033 Entrepreneurship and Food Innovation Management 03
FBM21042 Customer Relationship Management in Food Business 02
FBM21053 Food Microbiology 03
FBM21063 Food Retailing 03
AG 21010 English  III 00
AG 21020 Computer Science III 00
 
Year II Semester II
Code Subject No. Credits
FBM 22014 Finance and Accounting 04
FBM 22023 Brand Management 03
FBM 22034 Quantitative Methods in Business 04
FBM 22043 Strategic Management 03
FBM 22053 Food Safety and Quality Management 03
AG 22010 English  IV 00
AG 22020 Computer Science IV 00
 
Year III Semester I
Code Subject No. Credits
FBM 31014 Business Research Methods 04
FBM 31023 Advanced Food Marketing 03
FBM 31033 Food Value Chain Management 03
FBM 31043 E- Business in Food Industry 03
FBM 31053 Business Economics 03
FBM 31063 Restaurant Management 03
AG 31010 English  V 00
AG 31020 Computer Science V 00
 
Year III Semester II
Code Subject No. credits
FBM32013 Research and Development in food industry 03
FBM32023 Advertising & Promotion in Food Business 03
FBM32033 Legal Aspects of Food Business 03
FBM32043 International Food Business and Trade Operations 03
FBM32053 Total Quality Management in Food Business 03
FBM32062 Current Issues of Food Industry 02
 
Year IV Semester I
Code Subject No. Credits
FBM 420112 Industrial Training 12
 
Year IV Semester II
Code Subject No. Credits
FBM 42028 Research Project 08
Year I Semester I
Code Subject No. Credits
AB 1101 Mathematics 02
AB 1102 Microeconomics 02
AB 1103 Sri Lankan Studies and Current Affairs 00
AG 1103 Personality Development 00
 
Year I Semester II
Code  Subject No. Credits
AB 1201 Applied Statistics 02
AB1202 Principles of Agribusiness Management 02
AB 1203 World Studies and Current Affairs 00
 
Year II Semester I
Code Subject No. Credits
AB 2101 Experimental and Survey Design 02
 
Year II Semester II
Code Subject No. Credits
AB 2201 Agricultural Extension 02
AB 2202 Macro Economics 02
AB 2203 Human Resource Management I 02
 
Year III Semester I
Code Subject No. Credits
AB 3101 Advanced Agribusiness Management 03
AB 3102 Agricultural Finance and Accounting 03
AB 3103 Business Communication 02
AB 3104 Managerial Economics for Decision Making 03
AB 3105 Marketing Management 03
AB 3106 Organizational Behavior and Dynamics 03
 
Year III Semester II
Code Subject No. Credits
AB3201 Agricultural Marketing and postharvest Management 03
AB3202 Business Law 03
AB3203 Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management 03
AB3204 Information Technology in Agribusiness 02
AB3205 Research Methods for Agribusiness 03
AB3206 Social Interventions in Rural Development 03
 
Year IV Semester I
Code Subject No. Credits
AB 4101 Agricultural Development and policy 03
AB 4102 Agricultural Tourism 03
AB 4103 GIS and Remote Sensing in Agribusiness 03
AB 4104 Human Resource Management II 03
AB 4105 International Business and Trade Operations 03
AB 4106 Practical Communication Skills 03
AB 4107 Proposal Formulation and Seminar 01
AB 4108 Quantitative Techniques in Agribusiness 03
AB 4109 Quality Management and Product certification 03
AB 4110 Strategic Management and Management of Change 03
 
Year IV Semester II
Code Subject No. Credits
AB 4201 Industrial Training 03
AB 4201 Research 05

Facilities

The Audio-Visual Unit

Department of Agribusiness Management provides facilities through the Audio-Visual Unit. The unit support the faculty, by means of producing audio video materials to supplement the regular teaching and learning activities through a skillful technical staff. Apart from preparing teaching material for undergraduate studies, the unit covers the social events of the university.

Agric-Farm Stay

Department of Agribusiness Management provides accommodation facilities through the Agrifac Farm Stay.

Staff

 

Mr. A M S I Bandara

Audio Visual Technical Officer Grade II

Mr. K V A N Gunarathna

Technical Officer 

Mr. K R U G Kumara


Management Assistant

Mr. D P Wijesooriya

Work Aid

Research and Knowledge Dissemination

Books/Book Chapters/Monographs/Reports

  • Wijesinghe, W.P.S, Sivashankar P., and Malkanthi S.H.P. (2019). 'Consumer Willingness to Pay for Organic Food in Colombo Municipal Council: Evidence from Conjoint Analysis', in Aslam, M. Cooper M.J.M., Gnanapala A,. Gamage T (ed.) Managerial Dilemmas in Developing Countries: Business, Marketing, Finance and Tourism, Cambridge Scholars, UK. pp. 164-176.(Chapter 14).
  • Malkanthi S.H.P and Krishani, A.A.C. (2019). A Study of the Cinnamon Value Chain in the Galle District of Sri Lanka, in Aslam, M. Cooper M.J.M., Gnanapala A,. Gamage T (ed.) Managerial Dilemmas in Developing Countries: Business, Marketing, Finance and Tourism, Cambridge Scholars, UK. pp. 176-184. (Chapter 15).
  • Mahaliyanarachchi R P, 2017, Agri Tourism : Segment of Rural Tourism, Department of Agri Business Management, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
  • Mahaliyanarachchi R P, 2014, Agro tourism, Department of Agri Business Management, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
  • Mahaliyanarachchi R P, 2015, Agri Tourism Farms and Farm stays, Department of Agri Business Management, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
  • Esham, M. (2012): Lessons for Farmer Based Organizations (FBO) in Sri Lanka: Experiences from Agricultural Cooperatives (JA) in Japan. In H. D. Karunaratne (Ed.) A Journey in Harmony: Sixty years of Japan - Sri Lanka relation. University of Colombo Sri Lanka. ISBN 978-955-50475-4-8.
  • Larsen, K., Bandara, D. C., Esham, M., & Unantenne, R. (2016). Promoting University-industry Collaboration in Sri Lanka: Status, Case Studies, and Policy Options. World Bank Publications. ISBN 978-1-4648-0929-3.
  • Esham, M., Rosairo, H.S.R., Wijeratne, A.W. (2018). Future of Work for Tea Smallholders in Sri Lanka. International Labour Organization, ILO Country Office for Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
  • Cordell, D. J., Dominish, E., Esham, M., & Jacobs, B. (2017). Towards Phosphorus and Climate Smart Agriculture in Sri Lanka.
  • Report on National export strategy- Spices and concentrates-Coauthored by Prof.D.A.M.De Silva
  • Report on Value chain dynamics and small scale sector, FAO-NORAD small scale fishery value chain- Coauthored by Prof.D.A.M.De Silva

 

Student Abstract Publications at Conferences

Student Publications in 2019

  • M.P.T.R Sankalpana, Elapata M.S. (2019). “The case study on the assessment of Supplier Satisfaction on Creating Shared Value programs of Organic Tea Processing Organizations and the moderating effect of Corporate Image”.,2nd South Asia Conference on Multidisciplinary Research 2019(SAMR’19) conference held on 08-09th November 2019.
  • Upasena, W.T.N, Nayanathara, G.K.H, Dilshan K.K.A,De Silva B.H.D.N ,De Silva,D.A.M Basnayake, B.M.R.L, Weddagala, W.M.T.B, “Economic Impact of Wildlife Pestilence : A Case of Imbulpe and Haldumulla DS Divisions In Sri Lanka”, 7th international Conference on Management and Economics 2019,University of Ruhuna ,2019

Student Publications in 2018

  • Prasangi K.W.V, Malkanthi S.H.P, Sivashankar. P, Hettiarachchi I.C, Elapata M. S (2018). Coconut Production and Marketing Issues of Small Scale Farmers in Mini Coconut Triangle. Book of Abstract, SLCARP, International Agricultural Research Symposium 2018,Sri Lanka Agricultural Research Policy, Ministry of Agriculture,2018
  • Galappaththi U.T.A, Malkanthi S.H.P, Sivashankar. P, Hettiarachchi I.C, Elapata M. S (2018). An Investigation of constraints and opportunities in Agriculture Inputs Marketing in Hambantota District. Book of Abstract, SLCARP, International Agricultural Research Symposium 2018, Sri Lanka Agricultural Research Policy, Ministry of Agriculture,2018.
  • Basnayake B.M.R.L. and De Silva D.A.M. (2018,October).Ergonomics Creating Quality and Safe Culture for Processed Food: A Case of Ceylon Cinnamon Industry – 2nd International Conference on Food Quality, Safety and Security
  • Basnayake B.M.R.L. De Silva D.A.M. and Naoki Hirotsu (2018, September). Economics of Ergonomics: A case of Cinnamon industry in Sri Lanka, 6th international conference on Sri Lanka-Japan Collaborative Research (SLJCR), University of Peradeniya.
  • B.M.R.L. Basnayake, W.M.T.B. Weddagala and D.A.M. De Silva(2018,July). The Feminist Approach to Value Chain Membership: Case of Small Scale Fishery Value Chains in Sri Lanka. The International Institute of Fisheries Economics & Trade (IIFET) Conference 2018,Seattle, Washington, USA.
  • B.M.R.L. Basnayake, W.M.T.B. Weddagala and D.A.M. De Silva(2018,July). Nutrition value chain analysis: Place of Women Fish Processors. The International Institute of Fisheries Economics & Trade (IIFET) Conference 2018,Seattle, Washington, USA.

Student Publications in 2017

  • Pinnagoda S.U, Mahaliyanaarachchi R.P, Sivashankar. P, Hettiarachchi I.C ,Elapata M.S,Mudalige H.M.D.E.H (2017). Consumer Behavior towards Fast Food Consumption: A Case Study in Kiribathgoda Area .Abstract submission, ISBN 978-955-644-058-4.6th International Conference of Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Abstracts, 3rd -5 th May,2017,7
  • Basnayake B.M.R.L. and De Silva D.A.M. (2017, November). Gendered Timeline of the Market Landscape of the Fisheries Industry in Sri Lanka. The Gender in Aquaculture and Fisheries Section, 11th Indian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum, Cochin, India.
  • Basnayake B.M.R.L., Weddagala W.M.T.B., Mahaliyanaarachi R.P., Sivashankar P. and Elapata M.S. (2017, November). Awareness of Paddy Farmers on Climate Change and Its Impact on Crop Production: A study in Kalthota Irrigation Scheme. 22nd International Forestry and Environment Symposium, University of Sri Jayawardenapura.
  • Basnayake B.M.R.L., Weddagala W.M.T.B. and De Silva D.A.M. (2017, May). A Gender Lens: Gender Sensitive Value Chain Selection in Wild Flower Industry. 6th International Conference of Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka.

Student Publications in 2016

  • Weddagala W.M.T.B, Basnayake B.M.R.L. Wijesekara H.M.L, N.R.D.S. Dharmathilaka, K.K.A. Kiriveldeniya and De Silva D.A.M (2016 December). Mobile Market Decision Support System and its Application in Agricultural Marketing in Sri Lanka and Banana Value Delivery Network. 3rd International Conference of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
  • Weddagala W.M.T.B. Basnayake B.M.R.L., Wijesekara H.M.L., N.R.D.S. Dharmathilaka, K.K.A. Kiriveldeniya and De Silva D.A.M (2016 December). Study on Recognizing What Cause the Imperfection in Value Delivery Network Present in Embilipitiya–Ratnapura District. 3rd International Conference of Agricultural Sciences,Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
  • Wijesinghe WPS, Sivashankar P (2016) Consumer Preferences for Organic Food in Colombo Municipal Council, 1stIntradisciplinary Conference of Management Researchers, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, 10th -12th August
  • Nandasiri SHAK, Wijayasekara DC.,. Sivashankar P, Hettiarachchi IC (2016), A Study on Relationship between Psychological Contract and the Employment Relationship, 1stIntradisciplinary Conference of Management Researchers, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, 10th -12th August

Student Publications in 2015

  • Elapata M.S, Hettiarachchi I.C, Sivashankar. P, Mahaliyanaarachchi R.P,Bandara B.E.S (2015).The Role of Field Level Extension officers at DiviNeguma Rural Development Program: A Study in Rathnapura District. Abstract submission, ISBN 978-955-589-201-8.In Proceedings of Peradeniya University International Research Sessions, IPURSE 2015, 5th -6 th November 2015 ,71
  • Gamhewage MI, Sivashankar P, Mahaliyanaarachchi RP, Wijeratne AW, Hettiarachchi IC, (2015) Women Participation in Urban Agriculture and its Influence on Family Economy - Sri Lankan Experience, The Journal of Agricultural Sciences, Vol 10(3), Pp 192-206
  • Farmers Perception on Cultivating Herbal Plants as an Agribusiness Venture: A study at Pambahinna Agrarian Services Division", Proceedings of the 5th Research Symposium of Uva Wellassa University, January 29th and 30th, 2015
  • Bandara, B.E.S., De Silva, D.A.M. and B.N.G.S. Premarathne. (2015). Perspectives of undergraduates on librabry use: A case of undergraduates of agricultural sciences, Proceedings of the Peradeniya University International Research Sessions (iPURSE), Sri Lanka Vol. 19, pp 19

Student Publications in 2014

  • Gamage, A.S.H. and D.A.M. De Silva. (2014). An investigation on management perceptions over the triple bottom line (TBL) concept: A study in the tea plantations industry of Sri Lanka, International Conference of Agricultural Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
  • Ushmika, W. D., De Silva, D.A.M. and K.G.J. Fernando. (2014). Impact of supervisor’s gender on organizational governance: a case of export processing industry in Sri Lanka, International Conference of Agricultural Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
  • Amarasena, D.K.G., De Silva, D.A.M. and K.G.J. Fernando. (2014). Impact of business process reengineering (BPR) on human capital performance: A case of export processing industry, International Conference of Agricultural Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
  • Hettiarachchi, I.C. and De Silva, D.A.M. (2014). An investigation of human resource management practices and issues of the small and medium export processing firms, International Conference of Agricultural Sciences, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka

Student Full Paper Publications at Conferences

  • B.M.R.L. Basnayake, W.M.T.B. Weddagala and D.A.M. De Silva(2018,July). The Feminist Approach to Value Chain Membership: Case of Small Scale Fishery Value Chains in Sri Lanka. The International Institute of Fisheries Economics & Trade (IIFET) Conference 2018,Seattle, Washington, USA.
  • B.M.R.L. Basnayake, W.M.T.B. Weddagala and D.A.M. De Silva(2018,July). Nutrition value chain analysis: Place of Women Fish Processors. The International Institute of Fisheries Economics & Trade (IIFET) Conference 2018,Seattle, Washington, USA.

 

Achivements

Prof. D.A.M De Silva

Awards

  • Endeavor Research Fellowship, University of Southern Quenskand, Australia. (2015)
  • Best researcher, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka for the research excellence in the filed of Agribusiness Managament (2014)
  • Commonwealth Academic Staff Fellowship, University of Portsmouth, United Kingdom. (2011)
  • Best student award of the Hiroshima University (2007) - General convocation
  • Best performance award on research publications of the Hiroshima University (2007) - General convocation
  • D.N. Chorafas award of Swiss Academy of Science for best young researcher of the year 2005, in recognition to the work on export-oriented fisheries in Asia

National and International Contributions

  • National export strategy- Spices and concentrates
  • Key note speech: Inclusive development including gender equality of small Scale fisheries: a feminist perspective at the Regional Workshop on the Underutilized Fish and Marine Genetic Resources and their Amelioration in collaboration with the Asia - Pacific Association of the Agricultural Research Institutions (APAARI)
  • Session organizer: IIFET-2018 Gender Special Session. The 2018 Conference of the International Institute of Fisheries Economics and Trade (IIFET) was held at the University of Washington, Seattle, Wa (USA) from 16-20 July. A Special Session “Bringing Gender Discourse in Fisheries Economics and Trade”
  • Value chain dynamics and small scale sector, FAO-NORAD small scale fishery value chain

Prof. M. Esham

International

  • Fulbright Scholar 2018/2019 University of Vermont, Burlington, USA.
  • Australian Endeavour Research Fellowship 2015. Awarded by the Australian Government.
  • Erasmus Mundus Experts for Asia Fellowship 2014, University of Turku, Finland
  • Japan Foundation Fellowship- 2012.
  • Visiting Associate Professor, Tottori University Japan 2010, 2011, 2012
  • Commonwealth Fellowship-October, 2010 to March 2011 at the University of Reading, United Kingdom.
  • Japan Student Services Organization Fellowship-May, 2010 to August 2010 at Tottori University Japan.
  • Japanese Government Scholarship to read for the Doctoral Degree at Tottori University Japan from 2002 to 2006.
  • Japanese Government Scholarship for Japanese Language Studies at Okayama University, Japan, 2002

National

  • National Research Council Sri Lanka Merit Awards for Scientific Publications in 2013.
  • Outstanding researcher 2013- Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka.
  • Sri Lanka Presidential award fellowship-2002.

Dr. Renda Kankanamge Chaturika Jeewanthi

National and International Contribution

Working as a reviewer in the following journals;

  • Journal of Food Processing and Preservation (SCI, IF:0.553)
  • Journal of Nutrition, Food Research & Technology
  • Madridge Journal of Food Technology
  • International Journal of Food Technology and Nutrition
  • ARC Journal of Nutritional and Growth
  • Food Science and Technology (USA), ISSN: 2331-513X (Print)ISSN: 2331-5156 (Online)

Mr. I.C. Hettiarachchi

Awarded the Second Prize for the Best Paper Award at the Gender in Aquaculture and Fisheries Section, 11th Indian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum, Cochin, India. (2017, November)

Ms. K.K.H.M. Rathnayake

Ms. K.K.H.M. Rathnayake, Lecturer (Probationary), Department of Agribusiness Management, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences has won the best paper award for the outstanding quality of the paper entitled “The Impact of Remittances and Gender on Expenditure Pattern on Rural Households in Sri Lanka” at the 10th International Conference on Business and Information (ICBI) organized by Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka on 17th October 2019.

2019

  • Ms. M.P.Taniya Sankalpana a final year student won the best student presenter award at the 2nd South Asia Conference on Multidisciplinary Research 2019(SAMR’19) conference held on 08-09th November 2019.She presented on “The case study on the assessment of Supplier Satisfaction on Creating Shared Value programs of Organic Tea Processing Organizations and the moderating effect of Corporate Image”.
  • A team that led by Prof. D.A.M De Silva, including Ms. B.M.R.L Basnayake, Mr. W.M.T.B Weddagala, Ms. W.T.N Upasena, Ms. G.K.H Nayanathara, Mr. K.K.A Dilshan and Mr. B.H.D.N De Silva from the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences of Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka participated the 7th International Conference on Management and Economics 2019 which was organized by University of Ruhuna, Faculty of Management and Finance .The conference was held at Marriot Bay Resort Weligama in 15th August 2019.
  • Ms. Geshani Yasodhara was awarded the best presenter at the final year research session, 2019, of the Department of Agribusiness Management
  • Ms. K.C.J. Premarathna was awarded as the best presenter and Ms. H.L.V.T. Rupasinghe won the first runner up and also Ms. B.A.T.K. Rupasinghe won the second runner up place at the at the Young Food Marketing Forum 2019 organized by the department of Agribusiness Management

             

2018

  • Ms. Ruwani Banadara, a third year student of the Department of Agribusiness Management was privileged to secure a scholarship for the JENESYS 2018 -Agriculture - First Batch Program.This was scheduled from 10th December to 18th December 2018.The program covered Japanese cutting edge technologies, cultural heritage sites (Kumamoto castle) , University of Kumamoto , Research institutes, Home-stay program and school exchange program.
  • A team led by Prof. D.A.M. De Silva, including Ms. B.M.R.L. Basnayake, Mr. W.M.T.B. Weddagala, Ms. Shanika Warnakulasooriya and Ms. Piuymika Madushani from the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences of Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, participated the 2nd International Conference on Food Quality, Safety and Security – FOOD QUALSS 2018 which was jointly organized by The International Institute of Knowledge Management and the Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Sri Jayewardenepura. Conference was held at Hotel Taj Samudra Colombo from 25th-26th October, 2018.
  • Research findings were presented under following aspects;
  • Ergonomics Creating Quality and Safe Culture for Processed Food: A Case of Ceylon Cinnamon Industry (B.M.R.L Basnayake and D.A.M. De Silva)
  • GI/ Traceability will assure the quality supply? A case of Ceylon Cinnamon ( W.M.T.B. Weddagala and D.A.M. De Silva)
  • Standards and certifications as a means for competitive advantage in Marketing A Case of Ceylon Cinnamon (K.P.Madushani and M.Esham)
  • Quality, Safe, Free Back Yard Production: Role of Neglected
  • Crops in Rural Household Economy(Shanika Warnakulasooriya and D.A.M. De Silva)
  • We are very pleased to announce Ms. B.M.R.L Basnayake ,a final year student of the Department of Agribusiness Management was bestowed with prestigious awards for the Food Quality Session’s Best Presenter Award and Overall Conference Best Presentation Award for the abstract presented on the “Ergonomics Creating Quality and Safe Culture for Processed Food: A Case of Ceylon Cinnamon Industry” at the FOOD QUALSS 2018Awards Ceremony, held on the 26th of October, 2018.
  • Ms. Dhilushi Dharmawardana secured the Subasena Mahaliyanaarachchi Memorial Gold Medal for achieving the highest final grade point average at the Department of Agribusiness Management, at the Convocation of Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka,2018
  • Ms. B.M.R.L. Basnayake was awarded the best presenter at the final year research session, 2018, of the Department of Agribusiness Management
  • Ms. R.H.N Rajapaksha (Cinnamon herbal tea), Ms. D.M.M Hewage (Cinnamon natural toothpaste) and Ms. R.S.K Dharmarathne (Cinnamon scented perfume) won respectively 2nd ,3rd and participation awards at the INNOVA 2K18 competition which was organized by the Faculty of Management Studies, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka.
  • Ms. Shanika Warnakulasooriya won the 5th (Magic Booster) for their green innovative products at the Green Inventor Awards Ceremony,at the Sampath Bank Green Inventor , held on the 25th of May, 2018
  • Mr. Tharaka Weddagala and Ms. B.M.R.L. Basnayake won 21st places (E- Food Value Chain Manager for Agricultural Production) for their green innovative products at the Green Inventor Awards Ceremony, held on the 25th of May, 2018.

             

2017

  • Ms. Melani Harindra secured the Subasena Mahaliyanaarachchi Memorial Gold Medal for achieving the highest final grade point average at the Department of Agribusiness Management,at the Convocation of Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka,2017
  • Ms. Melani Harindra was awarded the best presenter at the final year research session, 2017, of the Department of Agribusiness Management
  • Ms. B.M.R.L. Basnayake won the Best presenter award- First Prize, The Gender in Aquaculture and Fisheries Section, 11th Indian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum, Cochin, India. (2017, November)

      

2016

  • Ms. M.S. Elapata was awarded with the Robert Jayasekara Memorial Gold Medal for achieving the highest final grade point average at the Bachelor of Agricultural Sciences and Management Special Degree Examination and also the Subasena Mahaliyanaarachchi Memorial Gold Medal for achieving the highest final grade point average at the Department of Agribusiness Management, at the Convocation of Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, 20th December 2016
  • Ms. M.S. Elapata was awarded the best presenter at the final year research session, 2016 of the Department of Agribusiness Management

        

2015

  • Ms. Mithunthi Liyanagamage was awarded the best presenter at the final year research session, 2015, of the Department of Agribusiness Management
  • Ms. Erangika Mudalige secured the 4th Place at the HSBC British Council Youth Enterprise Award 2015
  • Ms. Mithunthi Liyanagamage and Mr. Nuwan Wijewardana ,final year students of the department of Agribusiness Management, bestowed the opportunity to get an international exposure for their final year industrial training program at the Nottingham University, Malaysia

2014

  • Ms. Mauli Gamhewage was awarded with the Robert Jayasekara Memorial Gold Medal for achieving the highest final grade point average at the Bachelor of Agricultural Sciences and Management Special Degree Examination and also the Subasena Mahaliyanaarachchi Memorial Gold Medal for achieving the highest final grade point average at the Department of Agribusiness Management, at the Convocation of Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, 2014
  • Ms. Mauli Gamhewage was awarded the best presenter at the final year research session, 2014, of the Department of Agribusiness Management

2013

  • Mr. I.C. Hettiaarchchi was awarded the best presenter at the final year research session, 2013, of the Department of Agribusiness Management

2011

  • Ms. Dihani Ushmika won the 2011 HSBC Entrepreneurship award

 

Industrial and Academic collaborations

Prof.D.A.M. De Silva and Prof. M. Esham participated a trade fair at Anuga-2019 at Koln, Germany on October 5 -9th 2019

Career Prospects

The graduates of the Department of Agribusiness Management are offered with a variety of career opportunities in different sectors including;

  • Business ownership
  • Agri-entrepreneurship
  • Food-entrepreneurship
  • Farm or ranch management
  • International business
  • Banking and lending
  • Financial consulting
  • Education
  • Commodity trading
  • Marketing
  • Human resource management
  • Political analyst

and many more…

Alumini Profiles

Dr. Krishanthi Vithana


Dr. Krishanthi Vithana completed her Doctoral studies in Durham University Business School in 2014. She also holds MBA in Finance from the University of Colombo, Sri Lanka and BSc in Agribusiness Management in the Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka with the medal for the best performance in the Department of Agribusiness Management.

Mr. Dimuthu Kasun Wijayaratne


 Mr. Dimuthu Kasun Wijayaratne an alumnus of 1997 batch is currently serving as a Senior Financial Analyst at Loblaw Companies Limited

Mr. Gayantha Fernando


Mr. Gayantha Fernando an alumnus of 2003/2004 batch is currently serving as a Production Manager at Aero Dynamics Pvt. Ltd

Mr. Dhanuskha Perera

Mr. Dhanuskha Perera an alumnus of currently working as the Assistant Director at Sri Lanka Administrative Services

Mr. Narendra Malalgoda


 Mr. Narendra Malalgoda an alumnas of 2007/2008 batch currently working as a Lecturer at NDSU College of Business of North Dakota University and Data Scientist

Mr. Kasun Gayan Amarasekara

Mr. Kasun Gayan Amarasekara an alumnus of 2007/2008 batch currently working as an Assistant Manager at People’s Bank, Rathnapura

Ms. Mauli Gamhewage

Ms. Mauli Gamhewage an alumna of 2008/2009 batch currently working as a Senior Research Assistant at the University of Winnipeg, Canada

Ms. Madhuwanthi Banagala

Ms. Madhuwanthi Banagalaan alumna of 2008/2009 batch currently working as Lecturer(Probationary) of Uwa Wellassa University of Sri Lanka

 

Mr. Eranga Sanjaya Bandara

Mr. Eranga Sanjaya Bandara an alumnus of 2008/2009 batch currently working as an Assistant Librarian at South Eastern University of Sri Lanka

Ms. Mithundhi Liyanagamage

Ms. Mithundhi Liyanagamage an alumna of 2009/2010 batch currently working as a Totally Workwear Manager,Inventory and Process Improvement, Australia

Mr. Dinuk Perera,

Mr. Dinuk Perera, an alumnus of 2010/2011 batch currently working as Assistant Manager at International Marketing,Renuka Agri Foods Pvt Ltd

Ms. Melani Harindra


Ms. Melani Harindra, an alumna of 2011/2012 batch currently working as a Marketing Executive at Trans Continental Packaging and Commodities (Pvt)Ltd

Ms. Shanika Warnakulasooriya

Ms. Shanika Warnakulasooriya, an alumna of 2011/2012 batch currently working as a Junior Consultant at UNIDO

Events

Colombo Manning Market and Colombo Arcade

    

Year 2017/2018 students specializing in Food Business Management had participated for a field visit under the subject of Consumer behavior in Food Marketing (FBM 21013) to Colombo Manning Market and Colombo Arcade in order to observe the consumer behavior in those two food markets on 19th July 2019. This was organized by Ms. M.S. Elapata, the Lecturer in charge of this subject


World Vision

Year 2015/2016 students specializing under Agribusiness Management had participated for a field visit to World Vision, Mahiyanganaya Regional Office and working sites on 10th of July 2019. The visit was planned under the subject, Social Interventions and Rural Development (AB 3206) to gain practical knowledge related to the subject area. This was organized by Mr. P. Sivashankar, the Lecturer in charge of this subject.


Amazon Trading (Pvt.) Ltd.

Year 2017/2018 students specializing in Food Business Management participated for a field visit to Amazon Trading (Pvt.) Ltd. on 15th November 2018. The main objective of the visit was to provide a room to study the theoretical aspects and gain practical knowledge under the subject of Organizational Behavior and Dynamics (AB 3106). This was organized by Ms. M.S. Elapata, the Lecturer in charge of this subject.

 


Amba Farm Stay and 98 Acres Tea State

Year 2013/2014 students who follow the elective course, Agricultural Tourism (AB 4102) had participated for a field visit to Amba and 98 Acres Tea States on 02nd November 2018 to obtain the theoretical and practical aspects of the course. This was organized by Dr. S.H.P. Malkanthi, the Lecturer in charge of this subject.

 

  • A workshop on Human Resource Management in Food Business was organized by the Department of Agribusiness Management for the Second Year Second Semester Food Business Management students on 18th July 2019 under the theme of "Life after graduation; Marketing Your brand". Dr. Chalinda Benaragama, Director Education unit, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya, participated as the key resources person of this workshop.
  • First year first semester students of Food Business Management degree programme participated for a workshop on Personality Development which was organized by the Department of Agribusiness Management under the supervision of Senior Prof. R.P.M Mahaliyanaarachchi on 08th July 2019. Mr. Channa Karunaratne participated as the main resource person of the session.
  • Dr. A. W. Wijerathne conducted a workshop on "Statistical Analysis using SPSS Software" for the final year research students of Deaprtment of Agribusiness Management, on 2nd July 2019 at the Lecture Hall no. 01, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences.
  • A workshop on "Entrepreneurship and Food Innovation Management" was planned and successfully carried out on 08th April 2019 at the Auditorium of Faculty of Social Sciences. this was specifically designed for the Food Business Management students in both first year first semester and second year second semester students. It was organized by the department of Agribusiness Management under the supervision of Dr. Jeewanthi and with the participation of Mr. Lal Keerti Gunawardena, former chairman Lucky Lanka Group, (Pvt) Ltd. as the main resource person of the session.
  • A workshop on Reproductive Health and Hygiene was conducted by the Faculty Quality Assurance cell on 26th March 2019 for the first year first semester students at the auditorium of Faculty of Social Sciences. This workshop was coordinated by Prof. D.A.M. de Silva and Ms. R. N. N. Perera and, Dr. and Dr. participated as the key resource persons.
  • A workshop for the final year research students of Department of Agribusiness Management was conducted on 05th March 2019 at Lecture Hall no. 05, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences which was regarding Thesis Writing. This was conducted under the supervision of Prof. D.A.M. De Silva and Prof. O. Amarasinghe from University of Ruhuna participated as the key resource person of the programme.
  • The Academic Writing workshop proposed by Prof. D.A.M .De Silva was successfully held on 13th and 14th of December, 2018 at the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences. The workshop was organized by Ms. M. S. Elapata with the guidance of Prof. D.A. M De Silva and the support of the QA Cell of the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences. This two day workshop was conducted by Ms. Joanna Aripe, English Language Fellow, Fulbright Commission, USA.

Extension program on the control of the Fall Army Worm

The students of 2015/2016 batch successfully organized an Extension program for the subject of Agricultural Extension(AB 22012) as a continuous assessment under the guidance of Ms. R. N. N. Perera and Ms. M. S. Elapata. The extension program was on "Awareness on the control of the Fall Army Worm". The target audience of the program was the farmers in the Pabahinnaarea.It was held on 5th July 2019 at the Muthetugama temple."


Street drama on the control of the Fall Army Worm

"The first year first semester students successfully organized a street drama under the guidance of Prof. D.A.M De Silva, Dr. G.D.K.Kumara and Ms. R.N.N.Perera. The motive of the drama was to aware the villagers on the control of the Fall Army Worm". The drama was held on 31st July 2019 at the Pabahinna fair.


Walawa Nadee- Market fair

  

The students of 2012/2013 batch successfully organized an Marketing and Promotional programme for the subject of Agricultural Marketing and Postharvest Management under the guidance of Prof. D.A.M. De Silva. The program to promote the farm products of farmers in Ambilipitiya who have been obtain the GAP certificate for their products. the students have successfully launch the first progamme which branded as "Walawa Nadee- Market fair" while introducing the eco-friendly bags for customer usage.


Extension program on Micro greens

The students of 2012/2013 batch successfully organized an Extension program for the subject of Agricultural Marketing and Postharvest Management under the guidance of Prof. D.A.M. De Silva. The extension program was about a new trend in agriculture market as "Micro-greens ".The target audience of the program was the farmers in the Pabahinnaarea. It was held on 09th May 2016 at the "Village common building". Twenty village farmers participated for the programme.


Extension program on value addition and minimizing postharvest losses of pepper

  

3rd year students of B.Sc. Agricultural Sciences and Management degree- department of Agribusiness Management enrolled with pepper farmers in Balangoda and Rajawaka to provide them updated knowledge in value addition and minimizing postharvest losses of pepper as a step to uplift Sri Lankan pepper industry.

Pepper farmers around Balangoda area were invited to product development and marketing programme on 2018 to sell their products at this event. The aim was to provide them a marketing platform.

Young Food Marketing Forum 2019

The Department of Agribusiness Management of the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences organized a mini research forum on 25th June 2019. The forum was conducted at the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences with the participation of Year II Semester I students of the Food Business Management. This is final evaluation of Marketing Management (FBM12013) and the event organized as two sessions, Poster session and Presentation session.

Senior Prof. R.P. Mahaliyanaarachchi joined to the forum as the chief guest and it was provided a platform to encourage young students towards the research culture. At the Young Food Marketing Forum 2019, Ms. K.C.J. Premarathna was awarded as the best presenter and Ms. H.L.V.T. Rupasinghe won the first runner up and also Ms. B.A.T.K. Rupasinghe won the Second runner up place.

This event was organized by Ms. B.M.R.L.Basnayake, of the Department of Agribusiness Management under the close supervision of Prof. D. A. M. De Silva, Head/Department of Agribusiness Management.


Fashionista Food Fashion Show -2019

  

The Department of Agribusiness Management of the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences organized a food fashion show on 25th June 2019. The forum was conducted at the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences with the participation of Year I Semester I students of the Food Business Management. This is the final evaluation of the Personality Development (AG11010).

The event was conducted for enhance the creativity and innovative thinking and develop their soft skills. At the Fashionista Food Fashion Show -2019, Ms. P. Suhansi was awarded as the best model and Ms. N. Thavarasa won the first runner up and also Ms. G.A.A. Sewwandi won the Second runner up place.

This event was organized by Ms. B.M.R.L.Basnayake, of the Department of Agribusiness Management under the close supervision of Prof. D. A. M. De Silva, Head/Department of Agribusiness Management.


Marketing Day

   

The Marketing Day is annual program carried by the 3rd year students of the Department of Agribusiness Management. The pioneer of the concept of the Marketing day is Prof. D.A.M. De Silva and this event had now been held for almost 9 consecutives years.


Sri Lankan Day

The department do not restrict students only for academic activities but believe that students should also value and respect the unique culture of Sri Lanka. The traditional Sri Lankan evening program is an event that promotes the liveliness of the Sri Lankan culture among our undergraduates.


English Café

This program was designed to enhance the English-speaking skills of the students. This program gives the students an opportunity to develop their own product and sell them to academic staff, academic supportive staff and their colleagues. Everyone who are willing to participate can join with them and enjoy their products while having a cup of tea. During this hour the participants must speak only in English

 

Contact Us

Prof. D A M Silva

Head

Department of Agribusiness Management

Faculty of Agricultural Sciences

Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka

P.O. Box 02, Belihuloya. Sri Lanka.

Phone +94(0)45 -22 80073

Email agribiz@agri.sab.ac.lk