The 12th volume of the Library Science Journal, published by the Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya, was officially launched on 17th February 2026, at the Vice-Chancellor’s office of the University of Kelaniya.

The event was graced by Senior Professor Nilanthi de Silva, Vice-Chancellor of the Univeristy of Kelaniya, and Mr K. K. K. Dharmathilaka, the Registrar. The occasion was also attended by Dr Priyanwada Wanigasooriya, Head of the Department of Library and Information Science; Senior Professor W. A. Weerasooriya, other academic staff members, and students of the 2019/2020 batch.

The launch marks another significant milestone in promoting scholarly research and academic excellence in the field of Library and Information Science.

An initial discussion was held between Room to Read and the University of Kelaniya regarding the establishment of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Department of Library and Information Science.

The meeting took place with Senior Professor Nilanthi de Silva, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya, on February 10, 2026, at the Vice-Chancellor’s office, to explore potential areas of collaboration.

The event was attended by Mr Michael Bowers, Chief Programme Implementation Officer; Mr K. Pathmannathan, Country Director for Sri Lanka; and Mr Indika Ganegoda, Senior Manager, representing Room to Read.

Representing the University of Kelaniya were Senior Professor Nilanthi De Silva, Vice Chancellor; Senior Professor M. K. Weerasinghe; Senior Professor W. A. Weerasooriya; Dr Priyanwada Wanigasooriya, Head of the Department of Library and Information Science; and Dr Niluka Harshani. 

The Department of Geography, University of Kelaniya, inaugurated three professional academic programmes: the Diploma in Disaster Management (10^th Batch), Higher Diploma in Disaster Management (1^st Batch), and Diploma in Geographical Information System (7th Batch) on 07 February 2026, at the at the Auditorium of the Faculty of Social Sciences, marking a significant milestone in the Department’s contribution to applied education and national capacity building.

The event brought together academics, professionals, and newly enrolled students, highlighting the growing demand for qualified personnel in disaster risk management and geospatial technologies. Addressing the gathering, Professor Nishan Sakalasooriya, Head of the Department of Geography, emphasized the Department’s role in delivering industry-relevant programmes that respond to emerging environmental and development challenges.

Professor M. M. Gunathilake, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, noted the importance of multidisciplinary academic programmes in supporting evidence-based planning and sustainable development initiatives at both national and regional levels.

The keynote address was delivered by Dr Saseeka Wijesekara (PhD. in Spatial Sciences), Senior Lecturer, Department of Geography, University of Kelaniya, who highlighted the increasing relevance of spatial sciences and geospatial technologies in disaster management, planning, and policy formulation. The Chief Guest, Major General Sampath Kotuwegoda ndc IG (Retd.), Director General of the Disaster Management Centre (DMC), Sri Lanka, stressed the need for strong collaboration between academic institutions and national agencies to enhance disaster preparedness, early warning systems, and risk reduction strategies in Sri Lanka.

Programme coordinators Mr Indunil Ranwella (Diploma and Higher Diploma in Disaster Management) and Ms Apsara Danasekara (Diploma in Geographical Information System) briefed students on the academic scope of the programmes and encouraged them to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges.

The ceremony was attended by Mr J. M. A. R. Jayarathna, Deputy Director (Early Warning) and Director – HR of the Disaster Management Centre, along with academic staff of the University. Approximately 80 diploma students participated in the event. The inauguration reaffirmed the University of Kelaniya’s commitment to producing skilled professionals equipped to address disaster-related challenges and advance the application of geospatial technologies in Sri Lanka.

A guest lecture titled “The Role of a TV Presenter,” organized by the Unik Radio Student Society of the Department of Mass Communication, University of Kelaniya, was held on February 9, 2026, at the Auditorium of the Faculty of Social Sciences.

The lecture was delivered by veteran television and radio presenter Mr Wasantha Jayasinghe Arachchi, who possesses extensive experience in television, radio, and print media.

The session was organized for students following the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Mass Communication and Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Public Relations and Media Management degree programmes. During the lecture, students gained valuable insights into the essential skills required to become a successful media presenter and the professional responsibilities associated with the role.

The event was attended by Dr Manoj Jinadasa, Senior Lecturer and Head of the Department of Mass Communication; Senior Lecturer Saman Rajapaksha, Senior Treasurer of the Unik Radio Student Society; along with academic staff members and students of the Department of Mass Communication.