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10th SLAAI International Conference on Artificial Intelligence (SLAAI-ICAI 2026)

"AI-powered Extended Cognitive Humanity in the Age of Singularity"

📅 19th – 20th November 2026

📍 University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka

Submit Paper Register Now

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About SLAAI-ICAI 2026

The 10th SLAAI International Conference on Artificial Intelligence (SLAAI-ICAI 2026) is the annual flagship conference organized by the Sri Lanka Association for Artificial Intelligence (SLAAI). The conference provides an international platform for researchers, academics, industry professionals, and students to share recent advances, research findings, and innovative applications in Artificial Intelligence. SLAAI-ICAI 2026 will be hosted by the University of Sri Jayewardenepura (USJ). The conference will feature keynote speeches, research paper presentations, workshops, and discussions covering areas such as Machine Learning, Natural Language Processing, Robotics, Data Science, and Responsible AI.

In its 10th edition, SLAAI-ICAI 2026 explores the transformative theme of "AI-powered Extended Cognitive Humanity in the Age of Singularity". Join us as we bridge the gap between human potential and machine intelligence.

10th

Edition

IEEE

Technical co-sponsorship pending IEEE Sri Lanka Section approval.

AI Singularity Concept

Important Dates

Call for Papers LIVE NOW

July 03, 2026

Submissions Open Worldwide

1
Paper Submission

August 10, 2026

Full Paper Submission Deadline

2
Acceptance Notification

October 10, 2026

Early Bird Registration Opens

3
Camera Ready Submission

October 20, 2026

Early Bird Registration Ends

4
Registration Deadline

November 01, 2026

Final Call for Delegates

5
Pre-Conference

November 19, 2026

Workshops & Tutorials

6
Main Event

November 20, 2026

SLAAI-ICAI 2026 Conference

7

Conference Tracks

Track 1

Core AI and Machine Learning

Core AI and Machine Learning Covers machine learning, deep learning, data mining, computer vision, NLP, speech, reinforcement learning, and optimization.

Machine Learning Artificial Neural Networks and Deep Learning Data-mining and Big Data Internet of Things
Track 2

Generative AI and Knowledge Systems

Covers foundation models, LLMs, RAG, knowledge graphs, ontologies, reasoning, multi-agent systems, and autonomous AI systems.

Ontological Engineering Reasoning under Uncertainty Fuzzy Systems Expert Systems
Track 3

Explainable, and Human-Centered AI

Covers XAI, fairness, ethics, governance, privacy, robustness, safety, and responsible AI deployment. This is especially timely given the growing emphasis on AI alignment and trustworthy AI in major conferences.

Agent Systems Cognitive Architectures Natural Language Processing Computer Vision
Track 4

Emerging trends in AI

Covers novel, fast-evolving, and high-impact directions in artificial intelligence that go beyond traditional AI methods.This track invites pioneering research into the convergence of AI with quantum computing, neuromorphic architectures, and the next generation of autonomous systems.

Robotics and Automation Quantum Computing in AI Ethical AI Development AI in Healthcare
Track 5

Machine Learning and Signal Processing

This track focuses on the integration of signal processing techniques with machine learning to analyze, interpret, and extract meaningful information from complex data.

Robotics and Automation IoT and Sensor Networks Computing in AI Signal Processing AI in Pattern Recognition

Call for Papers

Paper Submission Guidelines & Requirements for 2026

Important Deadline

Paper Submission Deadline: August 10, 2026

Follow these guidelines to ensure your research paper meets all requirements for the IEEE conference. All submissions must be received by 11:59 PM (UTC-12).

Submission Guidelines

  • 1

    Authors are invited to submit full papers of no more than six (6) pages in standard IEEE double-column format.

  • 2

    Authors must STRICTLY follow the provided IEEE manuscript template.

  • 3

    Submissions must be made through the Microsoft CMT System.

  • 4

    Double-blind review: Remove author names and affiliations from the initial submission.

Reviewer Policy & Research Integrity

Integrity Standards

  • ● All submissions undergo rigorous plagiarism and duplicate submission checks.
  • ● Strict adherence to data fabrication and research integrity guidelines is required.
  • ● AI/LLM-use Policy: Authors must disclose the use of generative AI tools in the preparation of the manuscript. (Details to be informed)

Evaluation Criteria

Papers are evaluated using weighted scoring on:

Novelty & Originality High Weight
Technical Quality & Methodology High Weight
Contribution to the Field High Weight

Note: Reviewer evaluations contribute 60% towards the final Best Paper Award score.

Submission Portal

Ready to share your research? Access the CMT portal for ICAI 2026 below.

CMT Submission Link Download IEEE Template

Camera Ready Paper Submission

Deadline: October 20, 2026

1

Preparing Camera Ready Paper

  • Edit your paper by incorporating all reviewers' comments
  • Maximum 6 full A4 size pages including references
  • Strictly use IEEE Conference paper format
  • DO NOT include page numbers in the final manuscript
  • Include author names and affiliations correctly

Copyright Notice Placement (Bottom left of first page):

To be informed

The specific copyright notice will be provided after the Letter of Acquisition (LOA) is received from IEEE.

2

Validate with IEEE PDF eXpress

Conference ID: To be informed

Information regarding the conference ID and PDF Express account activation will be provided after receiving the official conference ID from IEEE.

Go to IEEE PDF eXpress
3

Submit Final Paper via CMT

  1. Login to the SLAAI ICAI 2026 CMT site
  2. Click "Create Camera Ready Submission" in the Author Console
  3. Verify paper title and abstract match your camera-ready version
  4. Rename PDF as: xxx.pdf (e.g., 020.pdf)
  5. Upload the validated PDF file from IEEE PDF eXpress

Note: Author list changes are disabled. Modifications require Program Chair approval.

4

Complete IEEE Copyright Form

⚠️ Critical Information

You can complete the copyright form ONLY ONCE per paper. Verify title and author list before submission. Papers without copyright form will NOT be published.

Submit IEEE Copyright Form



Microsoft CMT Acknowledgment :

The Microsoft CMT service was used for managing the peer-reviewing process for this conference. This service was provided for free by Microsoft and they bore all expenses, including costs for Azure cloud services as well as for software development and support.

Registration & Fees

🏷️ Discount Policy

IEEE Members

20% OFF

SLAAI Members

10% OFF

Early Registration

10% OFF

⚠️ Note: Only one discount category can be applied per registration.

Registration Benefits

  • ✓ Access to all sessions
  • ✓ Conference proceedings
  • ✓ Lunches & Refreshments
  • ✓ Professional Networking
  • ✓ Certificate of Participation

Early Bird Deadline

Register early to benefit from the concessional 10% discount policy.

⏳

Ends On

20th October 2026

Keynote Speakers

World-renowned experts sharing insights into the cutting edge of cognitive computing and singularity.

Keynote 1
Keynote 01

Prof. Raymond Spiteri

Professor of Computer Science, University of Saskatchewan, Canada

Keynote 2
Keynote 02

Prof. Pourang Irani

Professor in the Department of Computer Science, University of British Columbia, Canada

Keynote 3
Keynote 03

Prof. Subha Fernando

Professor in Artificial Intelligence, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka

Conference Committees

Main Organizing Committee

Prof. TGI Fernando

Prof. TGI Fernando

Conference Chair

University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka

Snr Prof. AS Karunaratne

Snr Prof. AS Karunaratne

Honorary Chair

University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka

Prof. Prasad Jayaweera

Prof. Prasad Jayaweera

Local Organising Chair

University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka

Prof. Sidath Liyanage

Prof. Sidath Liyanage

Conference General Chair

University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka

Dr. Budditha Hettige

Dr. Budditha Hettige

President - SLAAI

University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka

Dr. Anuradha Ariyaratne

Dr. Anuradha Ariyaratne

Conference General Secretary

University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka

Dr. Kalani Ilmini

Dr. Kalani Ilmini

Conference General Co-secretary

University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka

Technical Programme Committee

Chairs
Chair

Prof. Uditha Ratnayake

The Open University of Sri Lanka

Chair

Prof. Kapila Ratnayake

University of Sabaragamuwa, Sri Lanka

IEEE Sri Lanka Section Representatives
Chair

Professor Tharaka Samarasinghe

Professor, Department of Electronic and Telecommunication Engineering, University of Moratuwa Sri Lanka

Chair

Dr. Thilina Thanthriwatta

Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Information Technology, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka

IEEE

Dr. KPN Jayasena

Senior Lecturer, Department of Computing and Information Systems, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka

Track-chairs
Co-Chair

Prof. Thushari Silva

University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka


Co-Chair

Dr. Mihirini Wagarachchi

University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka


Co-Chair

Prof. Sidath Liyanage

University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka


Chair

Dr. Menaka Ranasinghe

The Open University of Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka


Chair

Dr. Pasan Maduranga

University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka

CO-CHAIRS
  • Prof. Roshan Ragel
    University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
  • Prof. Saman Mutukumara
    University of Manitoba, Canada
  • Professor Tharaka Samarasinghe
    University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka
  • Dr. Thilina Thanthriwatta
    University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka
  • Dr. KPN Jayasena
    CQM Committee Member , IEEE Sri Lanka Section
  • Prof. Damith Wikaramanayaka
    University of Technology, Jamaica
  • Dr. MAC Akmal Jahan
    South Eastern University of Sri Lanka
  • Dr. Dushanthi Vidanagama
    General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Sri Lanka
  • Dr. Kalani Ilmini
    University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
  • Prof. Kavin Wong
    Murdoch University, Australia
  • Dr. Fansik Lamosa
    Maplesoft Inc, Canada
  • Dr. Dimutu Dekearchige
    University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka
  • Dr. Chathura Senevirathne
    University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka

Local Organizing Committee

Chair
Chair

Prof. Prasad Jayaweera

University of Sri Jayewardenepura

Co-Chairs
Co-Chair

Prof. K. S. Lasith Gunawardena

University of Sri Jayewardenepura


Co-Chair

Dr. M.D.S. Seneviratne

University of Sri Jayewardenepura

Co-Chair

Mr. Dilum Perera

University of Sri Jayewardenepura

Co-Chair

Dr. D.G.N.D. Jayarathna

University of Sri Jayewardenepura

Co-Chair

Dr. T.D.G. Geethika

University of Sri Jayewardenepura

Committee Members
  • Dr. Pasan Maduranga
    University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
  • Dr. Waruna Premachandra
    BCI Campus, Sri Lanka
  • Dr. Ravimal Bandara
    University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
  • Dr. Charithri Yapa
    University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
  • Dr. Uditha Lakmal Wijewardhana
    University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
  • Dr. Udaya Wijenayake
    University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
  • Dr. Sabyasachi Bhattacharyya
    Barak Valley Engineering College, Assam, India
  • Dr. Pooja Gupta
    Manipal University Jaipur, India
  • Dr. Valmik Tilwari
    Indian Institute of Information Technology , Guhawati, India
  • Dr. Prasna Sumatipala
    University of Sri Jayewardenepura
  • Sanika Wijayasekara
    SLTC Research University, Sri Lanka
  • Dr. Prabahani Liyanage
    University of Sri Jayewardenepura

Financial Committee

Chair
Chair

Dr. Dushanthi Vidanagama

General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University

CO-CHAIRS
  • Dr. Mihirini Wagarachchi
    University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka
  • Mrs. Mihiri Sirisuriya
    General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University
  • Dr. D.G.N.D. Jayarathna
    University of Sri Jayewardenepura
  • Ms. S.A.M.P. Udeshika
    University of Sri Jayewardenepura

Publication and Editorial Committee

Chair
Chair

Dr. Menaka Ranasinghe

The Open University of Sri Lanka

Co-Chairs
  • Prof. Emi Yuda
    Professor at Mie University, Japan
  • Dr. Rukshima Dabare
    The Open University of Sri Lanka
  • Prof. Hiroharu Kawanaka,
    Professor Mie University, Tsu, Japan
  • Dr. Suresha Nilmini Perera
    The Open University of Sri Lanka
  • Dr. Baghaya Senadheera
    University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
  • Ms. Vindhya Senanayake
    University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
  • Ms S. A. A. H. Samaraweera
    The Open University of Sri Lanka
  • Eng. (Ms.) Pamodha Rathnayake
    The Open University of Sri Lanka
  • Ms. Hirusha Wanigasingha
    University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka

Publicity Committee

Chair
Chair

Dr. Waruna Premachandra

BCI Campus, Sri Lanka

Committee Members
  • Dr. Dhammika Pieris
    University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
  • Ms. Anusha Samaraweera
    The Open University of Sri Lanka
  • Mrs. Mihiri Sirisuriya
    General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University
  • Mr. Dewmal Handapangoda
    CEO/Founder, SYIGEN Pvt Ltd
  • Dr. Gihan Anthonys
    The Open University of Sri Lanka
  • Mr. L D P S Jayasekara
    University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka

Registration Committee

Chair
Chair

Dr. Umanda Dikawatta

University of Sri Jayewardenepura

Co-Chairs
  • Dr Bagya Senadheera
    University of Sri Jayewardenepura
  • Mrs. Mihiri Sirisuriya
    General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University
  • Ms. M. M. V. Senanayake
    University of Sri Jayewardenepura
  • Mr. K. D. T. Rangana
    University of Sri Jayewardenepura
  • Ms. AGR Sandeepa
    General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University

International Relations Committee

Chair
Chair

Dr. Sidath Weerasinghe

Chair -IEEE Computational Intelligence Society (CIS) Sri Lanka Chapter

Co-Chairs
  • Ms. Sharlene Brown
    HR Consultants Joni-Gaye Cawley & Associates, Jamaica
  • Dr. Waruna Premachandra
    BCI Campus, Sri Lanka
  • Dr. Sagara Sumatipala
    Data Scientist @ Commonwealth Bank, Australia
  • Dr. Wijendra Gunathilake
    University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
  • Dr. Suresha Perera
    The Open University of Sri Lanka
    IEEE Member No: [To be informed]
  • Dr. Chinthanie Weerakoon
    University of Kalaneya, Sri Lanka
    IEEE Member No: [To be informed]

🛡️ IEEE Membership Compliance

All Technical Programme Committee members and Publication Chairs are required to maintain active IEEE membership.

Requirement:

Evidence of valid active IEEE membership for 2026 must be provided for all committee roles and for IEEE member registration rates.

🤝 Student Branch & Chapter Engagement

SLAAI-ICAI 2026 is proud to collaborate with local IEEE units to promote technical excellence.

IEEE Sri Lanka Section IEEE USJ Student Branch IEEE OU Student Branch IEEE CIS Sri Lanka Chapter IEEE WIE Affinity Group

AI Workshops

Workshop #1

Architecting Agentic Microservices: Designing AI‑Native Distributed Systems

📅 19. 11. 2026 & 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM

Dr. Sidath Weerasinghe

Associate Architect Chair of the IEEE Computational Intelligence Society (CIS) Sri Lanka Chapter Senior Member IEEE.

While traditional microservices function as passive execution units, the next generation of distributed systems demands active cognition. This workshop explores the paradigm of Agentic Microservices, an architectural shift where services are no longer static endpoints, but autonomous entities capable of reasoning and planning. We will provide a comprehensive roadmap for those interested in AI and software development to transition from deterministic APIs to the complexities of autonomous, AI-native systems.

Workshop #2

From Signals to Vision: Modern AI Approaches in Medical Imaging

📅 Date &19.11. 2026 Time 1:00 PM to 3:00 P
👤

Prof. Maheshi Dissanayake

, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka

👤

Dr.Isuru Lakmal

, NSBM Green University, Sri Lanka

This interactive workshop will explore ethical AI frameworks and data governance. Participants will engage in hands-on case studies focused on algorithmic transparency and fairness.

Special Session

IEEE Women in Engineering (WIE) Networking Event

📅 20. 11. 2026 | Networking & Mentorship
🫂 Open to all conference participants

Recommended session for fostering diversity and inclusion in the AI research community. This event will feature networking opportunities, career discussions, and insights from leading women in Artificial Intelligence.

Conference Awards

Recognizing excellence in AI research and innovation.

🏆

IEEE SLAAI-ICAI 2026 Best Paper Award

This award recognizes the most outstanding research paper submitted and presented at the conference. All peer-reviewed papers are eligible for this prestigious recognition, with the final selection based on both technical excellence and presentation quality.

📊 Presentation Evaluation Criteria (40%)

Significance of Contribution 20%
Technical Depth & Explanation 30%
Visual Aids & Slide Quality 10%
Clarity of Presentation 10%
Engagement & Communication 10%
Q&A Session Handling 20%
⚖️

The final selection for the Best Paper Award is determined by a weighted combination of the Reviewer's Score (60%) and the Presentation Evaluation (40%).

Go to Call for Papers
Selection by Awards Committee
Organizer SLAAI Logo
In Collaboration With
IEEE CIS Sri Lanka Section Chapter Logo IEEE Logo
Jointly Hosted By
USJ IEEE Student Branch USJ Student Branch
University of Kelaniya Logo Kelaniya Student Branch

SLAAI Best Undergraduate AI Project Award 2026

Awarded by The Sri Lanka Association for Artificial Intelligence (SLAAI)

Jointly Hosted by University of Sri Jayewardenepura and University of Kelaniya, with the active involvement of the IEEE Student Branches of both universities

The Sri Lanka Association for Artificial Intelligence (SLAAI), together with the SLAAI International Conference on Artificial Intelligence 2026 (ICAI 2026), is excited to organize the Best AI Undergraduate Project Award 2026 for the second consecutive year.

This year, we are proud to collaborate with the IEEE Computational Intelligence Society (CIS) Sri Lanka Section Chapter to further strengthen the initiative and create greater opportunities for undergraduate innovators in Artificial Intelligence.

The competition is jointly hosted by the University of Sri Jayewardenepura and the University of Kelaniya, with the active involvement of the IEEE Student Branches of both universities.

SLAAI Best Undergraduate AI Project Award 2026 Poster
🔍 View Full Poster

📋 Guidelines for Applicants

📅
Eligibility Period

The award is open to any undergraduate or graduate who has completed a computing degree from a recognized university in Sri Lanka between January 2024 and January 2026.

📄
Submission Requirements

A duly completed application form must be submitted together with:

  • ✔ A one-page abstract of the project highlighting the methodology, AI contribution, and novelty of the proposed solution.
  • 📹 A 3-minute video demonstration of the project for the first-round evaluation.
🔍
Evaluation Process

Applications shortlisted from the initial round will proceed to the second round, which will consist of a physical project demonstration and evaluation session.

💡 Important Notes

  • • SLAAI reserves the right to withhold awards if the submitted projects do not meet the expected standards of quality.
  • • The decisions of SLAAI and the evaluation panel shall be final and conclusive.
  • • Late submissions or incomplete applications will not be considered.
  • • Awards will be presented at the Annual SLAAI Conference 2026.
🏅 Award Categories
Gold Award 90% +
Silver Award 80% – 89%
Merit Award 70% – 79%

📊 Evaluation & Marking Scheme

Projects will be evaluated by an expert panel appointed by the Sri Lanka Association for Artificial Intelligence (SLAAI). The evaluation consists of two stages: Round 1 (40% Weightage) and Round 2 (60% Weightage).

Round 1: Initial Screening
Weight: 40%

Based on Abstract & Video Demonstration (Max 50 Marks)

Quality & Clarity of Abstract 10 Marks
Innovation & Originality 10 Marks
AI Relevance & Technical Integration 10 Marks
Impact & Usefulness 10 Marks
Quality of Video Demonstration (≤ 3 mins) 10 Marks
Round 2: Final Evaluation
Weight: 60%

On-site Demonstration & Presentation (Max 70 Marks)

Technical Depth & Methodology 10 Marks
System Functionality & Demonstration 10 Marks
Innovation & Research Contribution 10 Marks
Real-World Applicability & Scalability 10 Marks
Ethical & Responsible AI Considerations 10 Marks
Presentation & Communication 10 Marks
Overall Innovation & Excellence 10 Marks
🎯 Scoring Scale (Per Criteria)
9 – 10
Excellent
7 – 8
Good
5 – 6
Satisfactory
3 – 4
Limited
0 – 2
Poor

Applications Open

Applications & Deadlines

Applications Open: 11 May 2026 | Deadline: 30 June 2026

Submit Your Application

Get In Touch

Conference Secretariat

📍

Venue

University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Gangodawila, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka.

✉️
🌐

Official Site

www.slaai.lk