Representatives from the 6G Flagship program met with Sri Lankan government officials and academic leaders to propose a new independent research institute focused on next-generation wireless and artificial intelligence technologies. The initiative envisions a collaborative model involving 6G Flagship, IIT Madras, local universities such as the University of Peradeniya and University of Moratuwa, and industry partners like Sri Lanka Telecom. Discussions highlighted Finland’s national 6G leadership and the successful operational framework of IIT Madras Pravartak as key references for the proposed institute’s structure. This effort builds upon over six years of a double degree program between the University of Oulu and the University of Peradeniya, aiming to leverage existing alumni networks and regional expertise to advance Sri Lanka’s digital economy.
Keywords: 6G Flagship, research institute, Sri Lanka, international collaboration, next-generation wireless