CDB supports University of Peradeniya to meet Ditwah challenge

Building and developing its platform for a tech-enabled nation, Citizens Development Business Finance PLC (CDB) inaugurated the CDB Elevate AI Zone at the University of Peradeniya, a fully equipped facility comprising a main server room, an IT lab, an AI lab with high-end computers, and a furnished seminar room. Delivered through an investment of LKR 40 million, the initiative restores and upgrades critical academic infrastructure damaged by Cyclone Ditwah, benefiting over 15,000 students at the university.

With the university’s existing IT lab having sustained significant damage in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah, leaving students with limited access to essential computing facilities at a critical point in their academic year, CDB stepped forward to rebuild and re-equip the facility. Recognising the impact Ditwah had on the student community, CDB restored access and upgraded the space with modern, AI-enabled learning infrastructure in the process.

Commenting on the initiative, Managing Director/CEO of CDB Mahesh Nanayakkara said: “At CDB, we believe that education is one of the most powerful investments we can make in Sri Lanka’s future. When Cyclone Ditwah disrupted the learning environment for thousands of students at the University of Peradeniya, we saw an opportunity to not just restore what was lost but to build something better. The CDB Elevate AI Zone reflects our commitment to standing by our communities in their moments of need and to equipping the next generation with the digital and AI-enabled tools they need to thrive.”