CDB supports University of Peradeniya respond to Ditwah challenge
- Revamps and modernizes IT infrastructure benefiting over 15,000 students
- LKR 40 million investment is the single largest investment by a corporate entity in the University of Peradeniya
Colombo, Sri Lanka, 11 September 2026: 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.”
The CDB Elevate AI Zone forms part of the Company’s Socially Conscious strategic pillar, under its Community Impact focus area, specifically within Education & Literacy, reflecting CDB’s long-standing commitment to equitable access to education and digital learning infrastructure across Sri Lanka.
Now operational and accessible to students, giving them renewed access to modern IT infrastructure and AI-enabled learning tools as they continue their academic pursuits, the initiative reinforces CDB’s commitment to enabling inclusivity across the nation. It reiterates CDB’s role as a responsible corporate citizen, committed to investing in the nation’s future through meaningful, high-impact community support.
Prof. Terrance Madhujith, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Peradeniya, added, “The disruption caused by Cyclone Ditwah left a real gap in our students’ access to essential computing facilities, at a time when they could least afford it. CDB’s swift and generous response has not only restored what was damaged but has also given our students access to a far more advanced learning environment than before. Completed well ahead of the planned completion date, this stands as one of the single largest investments made by a corporate entity to the University of Peradeniya in recent history. It is a testament to the scale of CDB’s commitment. We are deeply grateful for this partnership and for CDB’s continued investment in our students’ futures.”
About Citizens Development Business Finance PLC (CDB)
Citizens Development Business Finance PLC (CDB) stands among the top four largest Non-Banking Financial Institutions (NBFIs) in Sri Lanka. CDB is recognized for its innovation in financial services, steadfast commitment to sustainability, and adherence to exemplary corporate governance. With a focus on digital transformation, CDB continues to redefine the financial services landscape by offering cutting-edge solutions that align with sustainable development goals.
