Unicom TIC

Meet the Team

Our founding Directors, proud children of Sri Lanka, boast a collective experience of over 80 years in the global IT industry. Their visionary leadership is supported by a team of distinguished professors, accomplished leaders, and tech pioneers from diverse backgrounds and nationalities. They are committed to fostering innovation, industry readiness, and contributing to the local economy’s growth, each member of our team plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of tech expertise in Sri Lanka. Get to know the individuals driving Unicom TIC forward and discover the wealth of experience that powers our success.

Shantha Ruban
Co Founder & Executive Director

W. ShanthaRuban, a visionary and an eminent figure acclaimed among the World’s 100 Global Tech Innovators stands as a visionary serial tech entrepreneur and the Founder of 5 tech companies in the UK. He is currently serving as the Group CEO of Programus Limited UK, developing world-class solutions for some of the worlds leading conglomerates, while also shaping the digital landscape with cutting-edge technology.

W. ShanthaRuban’s unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of tech talent is evident in the establishment of Unicom TIC. With a profound understanding of industry dynamics and an unyielding drive for innovation, W. ShanthaRuban is dedicated to shaping a future where technology serves as a catalyst for positive change in Sri Lanka.

As a registered trustee at Blossom Trust, recognized by the charity commission in England and Wales, W. ShanthaRuban extends his vision, commitment, and dedication to ensuring Unicom TIC’s resources and funds are facilitated for a successful operation.

Dr. Neil Anthony-Pillai
Co Founder & Chief Training and Innovation Director

Dr. Neil Anthony-Pillai’s IT career started at NIBM in 1981 and has spanned over 40 years. He has worked for multiple blue-chip companies and Médecins Sans Frontières on projects across the world. Having always had a passion for training he has designed and delivered training in both Information Technology and Medicine. As the Co Founder and Chief Training & Innovation Director, Neil plays a pivotal role in shaping Unicom TIC’s training and innovation framework, ensuring it meets global standards.

Jon Guffaston
Chief Technology Officer
Renowned as one of the world’s foremost technicians, Jon brings a wealth of technical expertise to Unicom TIC. His primary focus is on preparing every student for the demands of the industry, guaranteeing that certificates are endorsed directly from the CTO’s office in the UK. Jon’s dedication ensures that Unicom TIC graduates enter the workforce with a competitive edge.
Prof. Dhayalan Velauthapillai
Advisor

Professor Dhayalan Velauthapillai is attached to the Faculty of Engineering and Science, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences (HVL), Norway. He heads the international research group on Advanced Nanomaterials for Clean Energy and Health Applications (ANCEHA) and has vast experience in leading a number of international collaborative research projects. He leads the Higher education and Research collaboration on Nanomaterials for Clean energy Technologies (HRNCET) in Sri Lanka between his university HVL, Norway, University of Bergen and University of Jaffna, University of Peradheniya, National Institute for Fundamental Studies (NIFS), and Eastern University of Sri Lanka. He has wide experience in developing curriculums and degree programs. Professor Dhayalan has an H-index of thirty eight and published more than three hundred international journal publications and held more than two hundred conferences and popular talks. He has won a number of awards in Norway in his profession as Professor and for his social engagement. Professor Dhayalan Velauthapilai will be involved as an advisor in the development of curriculum for this Industry Ready Software Developer Program.

S. Renganathan
Advisor

Sivakrishnarajah Renganathan: A Visionary Leader in Banking

With an illustrious banking career spanning over four decades, Sivakrishnarajah Renganathan has emerged as a luminary in the industry. Notably, he served as the Managing Director / Chief Executive Officer of the globally recognized Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC, listed among the top thousand banks worldwide. Renganathan’s legacy is rooted in eight impactful years as a Board Executive Director, steering the institution towards new heights with his strategic acumen.

Guiding UNICOM TIC: A Strategic Visionary

Currently, Renganathan holds the position of Independent Non-Executive Director for esteemed organizations, including Sunshine Holdings PLC and Janashakthi Insurance PLC. Armed with prestigious professional designations such as FCMA, CGMA, FLIBF, and FIB, he brings invaluable expertise in strategic planning and financial management to UNICOM TIC.

 

His distinguished affiliations underscore his commitment to international business relations and economic growth. As the Vice Chairman of the International Chamber of Commerce, Council Member of the Employers Federation of Ceylon, and Council Member for Business with Britain, Renganathan actively contributes to fostering global collaborations. Additionally, his role as the Founder President of the Sri Lanka Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry showcases his dedication to building bridges between nations.

In recognition of his social service, Renganathan was appointed by the Ministry of Justice as a whole island Justice of Peace, reflecting his commitment to community well-being. With a wealth of experience, including eight years as a Board Executive Director, Renganathan is poised to contribute significantly to UNICOM TIC’s success, ensuring a strategic vision and financial prudence in its endeavors.

Mayooran Somasundaram
Technologist & Head of programs
As our Technologist and Senior Tech Lead, Mayooran is instrumental in imparting practical knowledge and industry best practices to our students. His extensive experience and hands-on approach contribute significantly to the development of well-rounded tech professionals.
Duwarahan Balakrishnan
Operations Manager
Duwarahan Balakrishnan takes charge of the day-to-day operations at Unicom TIC, ensuring seamless functioning and a conducive learning environment for our students. His meticulous attention to detail and organizational prowess play a critical role in maintaining the high standards we uphold.
Anushyanthan Selvanayagam
Strategic Director
Anushan assumes a pivotal role as the Facilitator. His wealth of experience and expertise adds significant value to the team, contributing directly to the success of our programs.