In a momentous recognition of his unwavering commitment to education, innovation, and leadership, Dr. Piyavi Wijewardene was presented with the Outstanding Leadership Excellence Award at the prestigious President’s Award Ceremony held by Management and Science University (MSU).
The award highlights Dr. Wijewardene’s far-reaching impact on academia, corporate leadership, environmental sustainability, and policy development, solidifying his reputation as a thought leader and change-maker in the region.
A Legacy of Visionary Leadership
Dr. Wijewardene’s career trajectory is marked by visionary leadership that bridges the academic, corporate, and community sectors. As former CEO of Odiliya Group, and Director of Quality Assurance at KIU Sri Lanka, he has led organizational transformations that emphasize quality, innovation, and social responsibility.
At MSU, he previously served as Head of Academics, where his work helped streamline curricula with a focus on real-world application, technological integration, and student empowerment. His leadership in these roles consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence, foresight, and inclusive growth.
Academic and Research Excellence
With a Ph.D. in Business Management from MSU, Dr. Wijewardene’s research portfolio includes pioneering work on green banking, technology adoption in education, and sustainability-oriented policy frameworks. His co-authored research on environmentally responsible banking practices earned him international acclaim at the 2016 International Multidisciplinary Research Conference, while his doctoral work was celebrated at the AGBA World Congress the same year.
These scholarly contributions are not only academically rigorous but also pragmatically valuable—offering actionable insights into sustainable development, digital transformation, and educational reform.
Contributions Beyond Academia
Dr. Wijewardene’s leadership extends into national policy. Notably, he played a pivotal role in formulating a national media policy for Sri Lanka, during a period of intense socio-political transition. This earned him the Distinguished Service Award from the Centre for Executive Professional Development in London in 2020.
His post-corporate career has been devoted to grassroots education, social research, and women’s entrepreneurship. His community outreach initiatives promote practical literacy, stress management for children, and economic inclusion, reinforcing his belief in education as a tool for social equity and resilience.
An Award Deserved
The Outstanding Leadership Excellence Award at MSU’s President’s Award Ceremony is a fitting tribute to a man whose work has not only shaped institutions but also inspired countless individuals. Dr. Piyavi Wijewardene exemplifies the MSU spirit of transformative leadership—using knowledge not merely to inform, but to empower and uplift.
In his acceptance remarks, Dr. Wijewardene emphasized the power of “ethical leadership and lifelong learning” in building a sustainable and just future. His words echoed the principles that have guided his life’s work: integrity, impact, and inclusivity.
As MSU continues to champion excellence in higher education, the recognition of leaders like Dr. Piyavi Wijewardene affirms the university’s commitment to cultivating change agents who lead not just with intellect, but with heart.
