The International Conference on Transformative Applied Research (ICTAR) organised by the Research Council of NSBM Green University unfolded on 31st January at NSBM Premises. With the topical theme of “Breaking Boundaries: Pioneering Solutions for Global Challenges” ICTAR 2024 This international research conference convened a diverse community of scholars, researchers, and practitioners from around the globe to explore innovative approaches and breakthroughs in applied research across various disciplines.

This international conference was launched with the inauguration ceremony held at the Auditorium. It was graced by the presence of the Vice Chancellor of NSBM Green University, Prof. E. A. Weerasinghe, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof. Chaminda Rathnayake, Head – Academic Development and Quality Assurance, Prof. Baratha Dodankotuwa, Deans of the faculties, international and local researchers, industry experts, entrepreneurs, academics and students of NSBM.

The ceremony featured keynote speeches by two eminent scholars, Prof. Bogdan Ghita, Associate Dean (International), Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Plymouth, United Kingdom and Prof. Neelika Malavige, Senior Professor, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka. 

ICTAR 2024 was successfully organized under the leadership of the Conference Chair, Dr. Rasika Ranaweera, Editor-In-Chief, Dr. Damayanthi Dahanayake, Associate Editor, Dr. Miruna Rabindrakumar, along with the Conference Committee comprising esteemed NSBM Academics.

The ICTAR 2024 Proceedings were also ceremoniously unveiled during the Inauguration Ceremony. The Vice Chancellor of NSBM Green University, Prof. E. A. Weerasinghe, officially launched the e-version of the publication, marking a significant milestone in this year’s conference.

The papers included in the ICTAR 2024 Proceedings have been subjected to a rigorous double-blind review process, ensuring that the contribution reflects the highest standards of scholarship and innovation. The review process has been done by locally and internationally recognized academics and industrial experts. The highest-scoring papers are published in a special issue by Taylor & Francis (T&F), the next band for NSBM (Oral) papers, and then posters. ICTAR 2024 has received a total of 139 articles of which 47 will be published in a special issue by Taylor & Francis (T&F).

ICTAR 2024 comprised a poster presentation segment, displayed at the NSBM Student Centre premises. A total of 25 posters were showcased, highlighting the innovative research conducted by both local and international scholars. These presentations enriched the broader research discourse of ICTAR 2024, fostering knowledge exchange and academic collaboration.

The evening schedule of ICTAR 2024 featured a series of parallel sessions spanning ten (10) multidisciplinary tracks, structured under 13 sessions. These sessions delved into key trends, challenges, and advancements across diverse fields, fostering insightful discussions. Each session was co-chaired by panels of distinguished academics, eminent researchers, and NSBM faculty members, ensuring a rich exchange of expertise.

The multidisciplinary tracks included Track 1: AI and Data Science Synergy; Track 2: Future of Information Systems and Security; Track 3: Smart Living and Communication; Track 4: Power, Energy, and Communication; Track 5: Automation, Manufacturing, and Industries; Track 6: Civil, Construction, and Architectural Design; Track 7: Food, Agriculture, and Environmental Science; Track 8: Biomedical Advances; Track 9: Advanced Materials and Track 10: Business Functions, Management, and Leadership.