Atlas Axillia, the learning-focused subsidiary of Hemas Holdings PLC, recently partnered with Nalanda College to inaugurate the Tinkering Lab at the Nalanda Innovation Centre, marking a transformative step toward preparing Sri Lanka’s youth for a technology-driven future.
The initiative is led by Atlas Axillia in partnership with Nalanda College, supported by technical expertise from India’s Atal Innovation Mission – NITI Aayog and facilitated by the High Commission of India.
Housed within the Nalanda College Centenary Building, the facility brings hands-on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and arts learning directly into a school environment.
By integrating scientific concepts with creative exploration and entrepreneurship, the lab bridges textbook theory and practical application, offering the students a resource-rich space to experiment and develop real-world solutions through robotics, artificial intelligence (AI) and design thinking.
Hemas Holdings Group CEO Ashish Chandra said, “True empowerment begins with giving our children the tools and confidence to shape their own futures.”
The Nalanda Innovation Centre is designed to guide students through every stage of the innovation journey, from developing an initial idea to creating a prototype and presenting a finished concept. Its facilities include a DIY Innovation Lab, an advanced fabrication lab equipped for 3D printing and digital manufacturing and dedicated spaces for augmented and virtual reality, arts and agricultural technology.
Complementing these technical facilities are training areas, collaborative workspaces, a corporate boardroom and a pitch suite. Together, these spaces support students in developing communication, teamwork, project management and entrepreneurial skills, while creating opportunities to engage with industry professionals and the start-up community.
High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka Santosh Jha said, “This collaboration reflects our shared aspirations and commitment to empowering our youth through education, science and innovation.”
Mahela Jayawardene, an alumnus of Nalanda College, representing the Nalanda College Centenary Committee, added, “The Tinkering Lab at the Nalanda Innovation Centre gives our students a world-class platform to test bold ideas, embrace emerging technologies and learn how to lead in an AI-powered world.”
