Eminent Edification and ANKA Technologies Launch STEM & Robotics Initiative in Sri Lanka

In a landmark move to revolutionize education in the country, Eminent Edification, Gampaha, in partnership with ANKA Technologies, officially launched its Induction of STEM and Robotics Program at a highly anticipated event attended by over 150 participants on May 3rd, 2025. 

The aim of this event was to foster awareness and enthusiasm for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Robotics and Artificial Intelligence education and bring together students, parents, educators, and industry experts for a day of inspiration and hands-on learning.

The ceremony began with the lighting of the traditional oil lamp, followed by a futuristic welcome by Pepper – Sri Lanka’s first conversational AI robot symbolizing the blend of culture and innovation.

Mrs. Amali Ranasinghe, Founder of Eminent Edification, delivered a passionate welcome speech, outlining the vision behind the partnership and the importance of preparing Sri Lankan youth for the future through accessible and cutting-edge learning opportunities.

The keynote address by Dr. Kaneeka Vidanage, Senior Lecturer and Head of the Department of Computer Science at General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, focused on “The Urgent Need for STEM and AI in Today’s Sri Lankan Education.” His speech stressed the need to equip students with future-ready skills in a rapidly evolving digital world.

Following this, Mr. Prabhath Gunawardhana, Program Manager at the London Stock Exchange Group, shared valuable insights in his guest talk titled, “How STEM, AI, and Robotics Education Shape Your Child’s Career Journey.” He highlighted the real-world applications of these disciplines and their impact on global employability.

Mr. Jude Xavier, Founder and CEO of ANKA Technologies, introduced ANKA’s globally recognized STEM and robotics programs and detailed the strategic partnership with Eminent Edification. A STEM.org Certified™ Educational Instructor from the Institute of STEM Education by ANKA Technologies shared student experiences, course structures, and program highlights, followed by an interactive Q&A session with the audience.

A major highlight of the event was the hands-on robotics experience, where children actively engaged in a series of fun and educational tech activities. They also got the opportunity to interact with Pepper. These interactive sessions left students both amazed and inspired.

The event received overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees. Many students expressed how the sessions sparked a newfound curiosity in technology and a genuine interest in continuing their learning journey. A notable number of participants showed eagerness to enroll in the upcoming STEM and Robotics courses offered through the new partnership.

This initiative marks a pivotal moment in transforming traditional education in Sri Lanka by embedding future-oriented learning pathways. The event served as a testament to the power of collaborative education, where visionaries, educators, and industry leaders come together to ignite a passion for innovation among the next generation.