"Mansuka" Reading Promotion Campaigns

The Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya is the hub of Library and Information Science education in Sri Lanka. It was formed in 1973 with the aim of providing skilled manpower in the discipline. In addition to conducting professional courses, the Department conducts a number of social activities with the aim of enhancement of literacy level especially in remote areas in the country. One literacy development programme was conducted by the Department  at Polonnaruwa District on 19^th and 20^th January focusing GCE AL students covering four schools namely Dhamminna Maha Vidyalaya, Nikawata Landa Maha Vidyalaya, Alawa Kumbura Maha Vidyalaya,Maduru Oya Maha Vidyalaya under the guidance of Senior Professor MK Weerasinghe, Head of the Department of Library Science, University of Kelaniya. This programme was held at the main hall of Daminna Maha Vidyalaya with the aim of developing reading interest as well as reading skills, learning behavior and attitudes, analytical and thinking skills including the career and character development of these students. The Department with the sponsorship of CEO Siyapatha Finance Mr. Pathirana organized this. The program was named "Mansukha". It was possible to complete this very successful manner with many activities including the distribution of reading materials for school libraries, school bags for the students. Other areas covered in this two-day programme were developing computer skills, use of English for the future, as well as the development of their soft skills and the introduction to learning methods. The resource persons of this event were Senior Professor MK Weerasinghe, Senior Professor W.A.Weerasooriya, Rev Dr. L. Piyarthana Thero, and Dr. KR.N. Harshani, Mrs. R.M.N.  Rathnabahu, Mr.Shanaka Wanniarchchi, Mrs I. Divyachapa and other teaching staff of the department.

The second year students offering BA Hons in Library and Information Science (LIS) actively participated for the event, engaging different activities, including a notable drama performance on the use of Social Media in a proper way. The involvement of these LIS students added a dynamic and creative element to the overall program, displaying their talents and enhancing the overall success. Mr. Pramod Tharuka, a Temporary Lecturer, attached to the department, played a pivotal role in coordinating the overall activities of the program. His dedication and efforts were instrumental in ensuring the smooth execution of this initiative.