Celebrating the Glory of 25 Years

The Faculty of Information Technology of the University of Moratuwa marks a significant milestone in 2026 as it celebrates 25 years of excellence in information technology education, research and innovation. Established in 2001 as Sri Lanka’s first state university faculty dedicated entirely to Information Technology, FIT was founded in response to the rapidly growing demand for skilled IT professionals and the country’s emerging digital economy. Beginning its journey from rented premises in Borella with an inaugural intake of just 50 students in January 2002, the Faculty has since evolved into a leading centre for IT education, moving to its permanent home in Katubedda, expanding its academic programmes, establishing research laboratories and building a vibrant community of students, academics and alumni.

Over the past quarter century, faculty has continually evolved alongside the rapidly changing technology landscape. Its milestones include the introduction of postgraduate research programmes, the Bachelor of Information Technology through open and distance learning, the Information Technology & Management degree, an early MSc and BSc programme in Artificial Intelligence, and the introduction of the BSc (Hons) in Artificial Intelligence in 2021. From developing the open-source "Sahana" disaster management system following the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami to fostering student innovation through initiatives such as CodeRush, FIT Future Careers and FIT Expo, the Faculty has made a lasting contribution to Sri Lanka’s technology ecosystem. As faculty enters its 25th anniversary year under the leadership of its current Dean, Prof. (Mrs.) Thanuja Sandanayake, the celebration represents not only a reflection on 25 years of achievements, but also a renewed commitment to shaping future generations of technology leaders and contributing to Sri Lanka’s digital future.