CHEC Port City Colombo (Pvt.) Ltd and the Town and Country Planning Department of the University of Moratuwa have signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen collaboration between academia and industry in urban development, urban informatics, research, innovation and talent development.
Signed recently at the University of Moratuwa, the agreement will create opportunities for students and academics to engage more closely with the development of Port City Colombo and its planning and development process.
A key focus of the partnership will be student development. The agreement provides for structured internships, industry exposure, academic projects and skills development, with opportunities for longer-term engagement through initiatives such as career fairs involving Port City Colombo-registered entities.
“As a master developer, we see value in working closely with universities because urban development is not something that happens in isolation. We see this as a partnership where both sides have something to gain,” said CHEC Port City Colombo Managing Director Xiong Hongfeng.
The two parties will explore opportunities for applied research and innovation in areas including urban informatics and smart city development. Student and faculty projects may be aligned with emerging urban challenges and areas relevant to Port City Colombo’s development.
“At a time when Sri Lanka is seeking new pathways towards smarter urban development, this partnership offers a timely opportunity to explore approaches that are not only technologically advanced but also grounded in our local needs, priorities and urban realities,” said University of Moratuwa Town and Country Planning Department Head Dr. Rizvi Noordeen.
