ReDM 2026 Research Conference Highlights the Future of Digital Marketing
The 1st International Research Conference on Digital Marketing (ReDM 2026) was successfully held on 28 January 2026 at 8.30 a.m., organized by the Asia Chartered Institute of Digital Marketing (ACIDM) with academic partnerships from the University of Jaffna, University of Vavuniya, and the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM).
The conference was conducted under the theme, “Research-Driven Insights to Ignite Innovation and Transform the Future of Digital Marketing,” bringing together academics, researchers, and industry professionals to discuss evidence-based approaches and emerging trends shaping the digital marketing landscape.
Following the academic proceedings, honoured academic and industry representatives participated in a ceremonial walk to the auditorium, marking the formal commencement of the event. The inaugural session then commenced with the traditional lighting of the oil lamp, symbolizing the pursuit of knowledge, wisdom, and scholarly excellence, with the event being hosted by Ms. Jegashiny, Assistant Lecturer, University of Vavuniya.
ReDM 2026 featured an eminent panel of keynote speakers, including Professor Dinesh Samarasinghe, Dean of the Faculty of Business, University of Moratuwa; Professor Nanda Ganesan of the University of California, Los Angeles (USA), who served as Conference Chair; and Professor Dewasiri N. Jayantha, President of the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing.
The academic leadership of the conference was further strengthened by the guidance of Senior Professor S. Anbahan Ariadurai, former Vice Chancellor of the Open University of Sri Lanka, together with Professor Nalin Abeysekara, former Dean of the Faculty of Management Studies, Open University of Sri Lanka, and Professor Athula Gnanapala, Dean of the Faculty of Management Studies, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, who served as Co-Chairs.
A key highlight of the conference was the panel discussion moderated by SharanCX, Vice President – Client Growth at Terra Digital (USA). The panel featured Professor S. Shivani of the University of Jaffna, Mr. S. Vidyapan of SLT-MOBITEL, Mr. Dhanuka S. of DSI Tyres, and Mr. S. Vathsan of CCMS Digital. The discussion emphasized the practical application of research-driven insights and the importance of collaboration between academia and industry in advancing digital marketing practices.
The ceremony was further graced by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Vavuniya, the Dean of the Faculty of Business Studies, along with Deans from other faculties, senior academics, and lecturers, reflecting strong institutional support for research and academic collaboration.
ReDM 2026 marked a significant milestone in strengthening research–industry dialogue and highlighted Sri Lanka’s growing role in research-led innovation within the digital marketing domain.
University of Vavuniya Signs MoU with Asia Chartered Institute of Digital Marketing (ACIDM)
The University of Vavuniya and the Asia Chartered Institute of Digital Marketing (ACIDM) officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today, establishing a strategic partnership to advance digital education and research collaboration in Sri Lanka.
The signing ceremony, held at the IT Center Boardroom of the University, marked a significant milestone in fostering industry-academia collaboration to enhance the digital competencies of future marketing professionals.
The event commenced with the lighting of the traditional oil lamp, followed by a welcome address by Mr. S. A. Jude Leon, Head of the Department of Marketing Management.
Prof. Y. Nanthagopan, Dean of the Faculty of Business Studies, delivered an address highlighting the importance of aligning academic programs with industry-driven digital trends.
Senior Prof. Samuel Anbahan Ariadurai, Chairperson of the ACIDM Council and former Vice-Chancellor of The Open University of Sri Lanka, emphasized ACIDM’s mission to empower students and professionals with globally recognized digital marketing qualifications and industry insights.
Senior Professor A. Atputharajah, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Vavuniya, expressed his appreciation for the collaboration, noting that the partnership will open new pathways for students to gain practical digital skills and exposure to international standards in marketing education.
A briefing on the objectives and expected outcomes of the MoU was presented by Mr. T. Dushyenthayan, Coordinator of the Department of Marketing Management.
The ceremony concluded with the official signing of the MoU, a token of appreciation exchange, and a photo session.
This collaboration positions the University of Vavuniya as a key academic partner in promoting digital innovation and marketing excellence in Sri Lanka, supported by ACIDM’s commitment to global educational standards as an ISO 21001 Certified Institution.
