The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Marketing Alumni Association (MAA) of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura (USJ) took place on February 22, 2025, at Marino Beach, Colombo. The event saw the participation of lecturers from the Department of Marketing Management at USJ, as well as members of the Marketing Alumni Association.
Dr. Darshana Jayasinghe (President –MAA, USJ) addressing the gathering
The MAA serves as the unifying body for graduates of the Department of Marketing Management at USJ. Over the past 25+ years, the university has produced more than 1,500 marketing graduates who have gone on to hold key positions in both the private and public sectors. The association is dedicated to positioning the Japura Marketing degree as one of the most sought-after qualifications for corporate and marketing professionals. With a mission to foster a strong network of Japura marketers, the MAA collaborates closely with the university to enhance the reputation of the marketing degree and promote industry engagement.
The AGM also marked the formal appointment of Dr. Darshana Jayasinghe as the new President of the MAA. In his address, Dr. Jayasinghe expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the association, emphasizing his commitment to working alongside the Department of Marketing Management to support the professional development of current undergraduates. He also highlighted his goal to further strengthen networking opportunities for alumni, providing prestige and recognition to members throughout his tenure.
The Executive Committee of the Marketing Alumni Association
The MAA has experienced significant growth in recent years, with the organization hosting various events to strengthen its community. Notably, the Kings and Queens Dinner Dance 2022 brought together over 200 members, reigniting the spirit of Japura Marketing. Additionally, the MAA has been instrumental in supporting the next generation of marketers. The ‘Fine Touch’ guest lecture series, launched in collaboration with the Department of Marketing Management, offers invaluable insights from high-performing professionals. Furthermore, a groundbreaking mentoring program was introduced, marking the first time undergraduates at USJ have received both theoretical and practical preparation for the corporate sector.
The MAA has also made a lasting impact through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. The ‘Bring a Smile’ program, which has donated stationery to schoolchildren in rural Sri Lanka for three consecutive years (2023-2025), has been a significant success. Additionally, a scholarship scheme for undergraduates of the Department of Marketing Management was launched in 2024, further enhancing the opportunities for students in the department.
In his speech, Dr. Jayasinghe acknowledged the immense contributions of MAA members to these initiatives and expressed his gratitude for their continued support.
During the AGM, the following office bearers were appointed for the upcoming year: Dr. Darshana Jayasinghe (President), Oshadee Withanawasam (Deputy President), Amitha Amarasinghe (Vice President), Nipuni Karunarathna (Secretary), Chandra Kodithuwakku (Treasurer), Vimukthi Kaushalya (Assistant Secretary), and Nuwan Indika (Assistant Treasurer). The committee members for the upcoming term include Aminda Lakmal, Thisaru Menake, Chathuranga Batuwanthudawa, Isanka Gamage, Dilhani Jayasekara, Demintha Surasinghe, Manuri Jayasinghe, and Thilanka Kalpage.
Denzel Perera and Lalith Sumanasiri will serve as Advisors, while Prof. Sandamali Galdolage (Head of the Department of Marketing Management, USJ), Ms. Manojee Dabare, and Prof. Lalith Chandralal will remain as trustees for the MAA.
The AGM reaffirmed the association’s dedication to nurturing the future of marketing in Sri Lanka and strengthening its ties with both alumni and the university.
