Sunday Times 2
Uni. programme focuses on Buddhist meditation and AI entrepreneurship
View(s):The Centre for Meditation Research (CMR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, in collaboration with the Centre for Research Development and Innovation (CRDI), will host a groundbreaking programme titled ‘Embodied Intelligence, Buddhist Meditation Practice and AI Tech Entrepreneurship’ on September 10 at 4 p.m. at the Main Auditorium, UCFM Tower, Faculty of Medicine, Colombo.
Prof. Thrishantha Nanayakkara
The keynote address will be delivered by Prof. Thrishantha Nanayakkara, Professor of Robotics at Imperial College London and Director of the Morph Lab. An internationally acclaimed scholar, Prof. Nanayakkara’s pioneering research bridges robotics, neuroscience and human motor control. He will highlight how embodied intelligence—integrating mind, body and environment—can inform the design of ethical, human-centered intelligent systems, drawing parallels between Buddhist meditation and robotics.
The event will also feature a panel discussion with:
Prof. Thrishantha Nanayakkara
Senior Prof. Vajira Dissanayake – Dean, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo
Prof. Dilshani Dissanayake – Director, CMR & CRDI, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo
Mr. Thilak Karunaratne – Chairman & CEO, Multiform Chemicals Pvt Ltd
Exploring how ancient Buddhist meditation practices can inspire modern AI-driven entrepreneurship and innovation, this programme aims to engage academics, students, professionals and the wider public in dialogue on combining science and mindfulness for societal benefit.
The CMR, a pioneering institution founded under the university’s World Bank-funded meditation research project, is internationally recognised for its studies on the scientific basis of meditation and its impact on the body, mind, behaviour and genetics, while also developing community-based programmes and evidence-based policy recommendations. The CRDI serves as the faculty’s hub for research administration, coordination, grant facilitation, training and innovation, supporting local and international collaborations.
The programme is supported by Multiform Chemicals Pvt Ltd, with the Sunday Times, Daily Mirror and Daily FT as print media sponsors. The Medical Faculty Science and Technology Community, the Medical Students’ Buddhist Association and the Medical Faculty Research Community have lent a helping hand.
All those interested in participating may seek registration on: https://forms.gle/DPASVrL5HEyRFGxc8