As the semiconductor industry races toward an anticipated $1 trillion in revenue by the end of the decade, the demand for skilled semiconductor engineers has become a global priority. Addressing this pressing need, Synopsys, the industry leader providing silicon to systems design solutions that maximize the capabilities of technology R&D teams, is paving the way for a robust semiconductor workforce through its Synopsys Academic & Research Alliance (SARA) program.

The SARA program empowers universities globally by providing access to Synopsys’ advanced tools and technologies, driving education and research in EDA and Integrated Circuit (IC) design. Leveraging cutting-edge platforms like the Fusion Design Platform™, Custom Design Platform, and Verification Continuum®, the initiative fuels innovation at the forefront of semiconductor advancements. By bridging the gap between academia and industry, the program enables universities to cultivate talent and equip students and researchers with practical skills and hands-on experience, fostering a diverse and capable workforce to meet the dynamic needs of the semiconductor industry.

As a part of this initiative, Synopsys is collaborating with the University of Moratuwa, focused on building the country’s semiconductor ecosystem. By providing advanced electronic design automation (EDA) tools, IT equipment, and educational materials, Synopsys supports both the Department of Electronic and Telecommunication Engineering and the Department of Electrical Engineering in developing skilled professionals. This collaboration is expected to graduate over 150 students annually with IC design and EDA knowledge, significantly boosting Sri Lanka’s semiconductor talent pool.

Academic leaders from the University of Moratuwa expressed their enthusiasm for the collaboration with Synopsys, emphasizing its transformative impact on education and research.

Prof. N.D. Gunawardena, Vice-Chancellor of the university, remarked that utilizing Synopsys’ state-of-the-art EDA tools enables the institution to produce world-class semiconductor talent and establish itself as a regional leader in semiconductor research. Dr. Ranga Rodrigo, Senior Lecturer, highlighted the essential role of these tools, noting that Synopsys’ support in providing equipment, and training empowers graduates to excel in the cutting-edge semiconductor industry. Prof. W.D.A.S. Wijayapala, Head of the Department of Electrical Engineering, commended on Synopsys’ commitment to enhancing practical learning experiences, expressing excitement about advancing education and fostering innovation through this collaboration.

A testimony from Pahan Mendis, a final-year undergraduate from the Department of Electronic and Telecommunication Engineering at the University of Moratuwa, highlighted the impact of Synopsys IC design tools on student learning. “I’ve gained invaluable insights through the use of Synopsys IC design tools,” he shared. “Studying IC design with these tools has profoundly enhanced my understanding of circuit behaviour and design optimization.”

Synopsys’ efforts extend beyond tools and training. Through initiatives such as the University Software Program (USP), collaborative workshops, short courses, and design contests, Synopsys fosters an ecosystem that bridges academia and industry.

By collaborating with additional universities in Sri Lanka, Synopsys is committed to expanding IC design and EDA research capabilities across the nation. These efforts underline the company’s dedication to innovation, collaboration, and preparing the next generation of semiconductor engineers. Together, Synopsys and its academic partners are shaping a brighter future for Sri Lanka’s microelectronics industry, empowering students to become leaders in technology and driving progress for the global semiconductor workforce.