Distinguished alumni from Curtin University Colombo have carved unique paths in their respective fields shaping careers across diverse sectors since graduation. In conversation, Sathish Muhandiram, Lecturer and Discipline Lead in Civil and Construction Engineering at Curtin Colombo, Kusan Edirisinghe, Co-founder of Steinverse and Curtin Colombo Alumni 2020, and Nissanka Senevirathne, Head of Customer Success at Apium Innovations and Alumni President, explain how Curtin Colombo has not only equipped its alumni with necessary skills to thrive professionally but also cultivated a legacy that continues to motivate and shape their futures.
How did your studies at Curtin Colombo impact or shape your career trajectory after graduation?
A: Sathish Muhandiram (SM): I decided to join Curtin Colombo itself as an instructor due to my passion for teaching. Curtin Colombo provided me with a robust foundation in both discipline-specific and transferable skills. The hands-on projects and critical assessments provided a solid foundation in my field of study. It cultivated my problem-solving abilities and communication skills, all which are utilized in my career as an academic and I now pass on to my students.
A: Kusan Edirisinghe (KE): My mechanical engineering degree was critical in helping me develop a wide array of skills. What I gained mostly at Curtin was working in a team. Today, teamwork, is core to our business. Even analytical skills I acquired are now particularly impactful. These have been instrumental in the way we operate and manage our diverse team to deliver quality content to our clients.
A: Nissanka Senevirathne (NS): Curtin’s holistic program, with its strong brand, comprehensive knowledge, and expansive alumni network, has been invaluable. It enabled me to excel in my career, especially in building confidence while dealing with international clients.
What sets Curtin Colombo’s apart from other degrees and how does the practical, real-world focused curriculum contribute to your professional success?
A: SM: The emphasis on practical application was unparalleled. We had access to a diverse range of experts and industry leaders locally and from Curtin University Australia, which enriched our learning experience and prepared us for real-world challenges.
A: KE: In today’s competitive job market, having an education from a qualified and recognised institution gives graduates a distinct advantage. It helps people achieve their goals by pursuing such a reputed degree from Curtin.
A: NS: Being a Curtin University graduate, I found it gives you a lot of confidence, with the curriculum also updated according to industry standards helps immensely in my career progression.
As a successful alumnus, could you highlight to current or future students about the long-term value of their Curtin Colombo degree?
A: SM: Currently, I am a lecturer and discipline leader for Civil Engineering at Curtin Colombo, and I am here today because of the skillset and knowledge gained during my degree. I encourage my students to think beyond the textbook and apply their knowledge in tangible ways.
A: KE: I co-founded Steinverse with a Curtin batchmate and myself, you can call it a Curtin startup. We have some top-tier clients such as Barista and Slash and we look towards contributing to society. I urge students to follow your passion and do what feels right for you. Do not join an University for the sake of completing a degree or because of the trend. It will help your future and ability to achieve your goals by pursuing such a reputed degree.
A: NS: Curtin provided me with the ability to network with an alumnus, brand recognition of being a premier Australian university and a renowned qualification, and the knowledge of having an intensive computer science programme – all that can open doors globally.
We stand as proof that with a Curtin degree, you are not just receiving an education – you are building a pathway to success. Our achievements and ongoing connection with the university serve to inspire the current students to aim high and dream big.
Would you recommend Curtin Colombo for aspiring students?
A: NS: Yes, I will highly recommend Curtin University. It is the top 1% university in the globe and local students can receive that qualification by pursuing Cutin Colombo degrees. I myself being a Curtin University graduate found it gives you a lot of confidence. The curriculum is also updated with industry standards, which I find highly commendable.