Damith Gangodawilage

Dr. Damith Gangodawilage serves as the Deputy Dean of the Qasim Ibrahim School of Business (QISB) and the Director of the Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development (CIED) at Villa College, Maldives. With deep expertise in entrepreneurship education, innovation management, and sustainable business practices, Dr. Damith plays a pivotal role in shaping entrepreneurial ecosystems in the Maldives and beyond.

A driving force behind the VIgnite Business Incubator, Dr. Damith has led impactful collaborations with industry partners, government organizations, and startup networks in the Maldives and Sri Lanka. The incubator focuses on fostering innovation in key areas such as technopreneurship, social entrepreneurship, women entrepreneurship, and global entrepreneurship, providing aspiring entrepreneurs and students with the tools and networks to create meaningful solutions for global challenges.

In his academic role, Dr. Damith has spearheaded the integration of Design Thinking into undergraduate programs and incubator projects. He actively engages in curriculum development and ‘train-the-trainer’ programs, empowering both students and staff to cultivate entrepreneurial mindsets. His work reflects a dedication to advancing entrepreneurship within Villa College and the broader community.

As an accomplished researcher, Dr. Damith has published extensively in the fields of corporate sustainability, critical thinking, and sustainable reporting practices. His ongoing research bridges the gap between academic theory and practical applications, contributing valuable insights to the business and academic communities. His forthcoming book, “Corporate Sustainability and Reporting: Theory and Practices,” offers new perspectives on sustainable business models and practices.

Dr. Damith's leadership in entrepreneurship development aligns with his efforts to connect local and global entrepreneurial communities. His role in positioning the Maldives on the global entrepreneurship map, including ongoing efforts to make Villa College the national host for Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW), underscores his commitment to collaboration and innovation.

With a passion for empowering youth, enabling sustainable ventures, and fostering inclusive ecosystems, Dr. Damith Gangodawilage continues to drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and lifelong learning at Villa College and beyond.