Colombo Awareness session - 2026
July 20, 2026 · 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM @ Online event
Description
The IEEE Awareness Session – Colombo 2026 was organized by the IEEE Student Branch of NIBM under the pretext of NIBM Codex 2.0 with the primary objective of introducing students, particularly first and second year undergraduates, to the opportunities available through IEEE and encouraging greater involvement within the Student Branch. The session served as an informative platform that familiarized participants with IEEE membership, the structure of the organization, student engagement opportunities, and upcoming technical initiatives while inspiring them to become active contributors within the IEEE community. IEEE Membership & Organizational Awareness Participants were introduced to the overall structure of IEEE, its global hierarchy, and the role of Student Branches in promoting technical and professional development among students. The session highlighted the benefits of IEEE membership, including access to international technical resources, networking opportunities, leadership development, professional recognition, and participation in global initiatives. Students also gained a better understanding of how IEEE functions at different organizational levels and how they could actively engage with the Student Branch throughout their academic journey. IEEEXtreme and Student Branch Opportunities A comprehensive overview of the IEEEXtreme programming competition was presented, introducing participants to its competition structure, objectives, and the various technical challenges involved. The audience was also introduced to NIBM Codex and the role it plays in preparing students for competitive programming and technical excellence. Organizing committee responsibilities were explained in detail, together with the volunteer positions currently available within the Student Branch. Students were encouraged to register for these opportunities and were informed of the personal and professional benefits associated with volunteering, including leadership development, teamwork, event management experience, networking opportunities, and recognition through certificates and active participation within IEEE activities. SLSAC Events and Community Engagement The session also focused on introducing several upcoming IEEE Sri Lanka Section activities, including the IEEE Sri Lanka Section Congress and the AI-Driven Challenge. Participants were encouraged to actively engage in these initiatives to expand their technical knowledge, interact with industry professionals, and strengthen their professional networks. The speakers emphasized that active involvement in Sri Lanka Section events provides valuable exposure beyond university activities while creating opportunities to collaborate with peers and professionals from across the country. Experience Sharing and Key Takeaways One of the highlights of the session was an experience-sharing segment delivered by a former IEEEXtreme Ambassador. Through real-world examples, participants gained insight into how involvement in IEEE activities contributes to developing leadership, communication, project management, and organizational skills. The speaker also shared how participation in IEEE expanded professional connections with industry experts and created opportunities for career growth. These experiences inspired attendees to actively participate in future IEEE initiatives and demonstrated the long-term value of engaging with the organization beyond academic learning.
Agenda
4:00 PM – 4:15 PM Welcome and introduction of the IEEE Student Branch Executive Committee Opening remarks and acknowledgment of attendees 4:15 PM – 4:30 PM Introduction to IEEE, membership benefits, and awareness of IEEEXtreme 4:30 PM – 5:00 PM Student Branch functionality, organizing committee roles and responsibilities Experience sharing from IEEEXtreme 19.0 5:00 PM – 5:30 PM Introduction to upcoming SLSAC events, including the IEEE Sri Lanka Section Congress and AI-Driven Challenge Encouraging active participation in Student Branch initiatives and volunteer opportunities 5:30 PM Conclusion of the session and attendance marking for both physical and virtual participants.