The International Conference on Technology Innovations for Crisis Management (ICTICM) 2026, organized by SLIIT and Massey University in New Zealand, convened a diverse group of researchers, practitioners, and policymakers. The focus was on the role of emerging technologies in transforming disaster management from a reactive approach to one centered on proactive preparedness and resilience.
This hybrid conference was collaboratively hosted by SLIIT’s Autonomous Intelligent Machines and Systems (AIMS) Research Centre and Massey University’s CRISISLab. The event was co-chaired by Professor Pradeep Abeygunawardhana, the Dean of the Faculty of Computing at SLIIT, and Professor Raj Prasanna from Massey University, with Ms. Suranjini Silva fulfilling the role of Conference Secretary.
Professor Abeygunawardhana emphasized the need for a paradigm shift in how technology is utilized in crisis situations. He stated, “Technology must evolve beyond being merely a reactive tool for disaster response. Through ICTICM 2026, we aim to gather global expertise to formulate practical solutions that are relevant to local contexts, enabling communities to better anticipate risks and enhance their recovery efforts.”
Key discussions at the conference explored the real-world applications of various technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, the Internet of Things, digital twins, data analytics, geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, robotics, and decision-support systems. Researchers showcased innovations including real-time mapping of disaster zones, predictive early warning systems, infrastructure monitoring solutions, and crowdsourced platforms for locating survivors and assessing structural safety.
During the keynote address, Professor Wensu Chen, who leads the Centre for Infrastructural Monitoring and Protection at Curtin University, discussed how AI and data-driven decision-making can bolster infrastructure resilience. He also introduced his research on “Advanced Metaconcrete,” a material designed to withstand the impacts of explosions and seismic events.
ICTICM 2026 attracted 46 research submissions, out of which 28 papers were accepted after undergoing an international peer-review process. The agenda included a panel discussion on nature-based methods, focusing on initiatives such as mangrove restoration, watershed management, and urban green infrastructure. Additionally, a workshop on cybersecurity strategies for incident response and disaster recovery was conducted by Dr. Windhya Rankothge from the Canadian Institute for Cybersecurity.
The Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science played a key role as a technical co-sponsor by organizing a specialized panel and providing session chairs and co-chairs. The event was financially supported by SLIIT International, the IEEE GRSS Sri Lanka Chapter, and SLIIT’s Faculty of Computing.
Given Sri Lanka’s ongoing challenges with floods, landslides, cyclones, and coastal hazards, the summit highlighted the importance of adapting global research findings into practical and economically viable solutions for enhancing resilience. ICTICM 2026 also fostered international partnerships and contributed to the development of skills among students and early-career researchers at the nexus of technology, sustainability, and crisis management.
Image Caption: From top left: Prof. Pradeep Abeygunawardhana; ICTICM 2026 participants; the organizing committee; and Prof. Raj Prasanna.
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