The Department of Mass Communication, University of Kelaniya welcomed a delegation from Yunnan University, China on August 15, 2025. The delegation comprised Dr. Wei Ping, Associate Professor at the School of Journalism, and Dr. Zuo Xiaolin, Associate Professor and Vice Dean of the School of Journalism, along with five professors and twelve undergraduate and postgraduate students.

During their visit, they toured the Department Studio and the University Library Museum, and also held a meeting with Senior Professor Nilanthi de Silva, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya at the Vice-Chancellor’s office. The discussions focused on future collaborations to enhance intercultural academic exchange, joint studies, and research initiatives aimed at strengthening Media and Communication Studies.

The visit was coordinated by Mr. Sugath Rathnayaka, Lecturer in the Department of Sri Lankan Studies, Foreign Language School, Yunnan University, and a doctoral applicant in the Department of Mass Communication, University of Kelaniya.

From the University of Kelaniya, Senior Lecturer Dr. Manoj Jinadasa, Head of the Department of Mass Communication, along with Senior Lecturer Dr. Mangala Keerthy Pasquel, Senior Lecturer Dr. Aruna Lokuliyana, and other academic staff of the department engaged in a fruitful discussion with the Yunnan University delegation. 

A scholarly discussion on the film “Walampoori: Seven and Half Dreams”, organized by the first-year undergraduates of the BA (Hons) in Mass Communication Degree Programme offered by the Department of Mass Communication, University of Kelaniya, was successfully held on 07th August 2025 at the Auditorium of the Faculty of Social Sciences.

The event was graced by the presence of Mr. Lakmal Dharmarathna, Director of the film; Dr. Aruna Lokuliyana and Ms. Samanthika Priyadarshani, Senior Lecturers of the Department of Mass Communication; and Mr. Priyantha Sirikumara and Mr. Anjana Premarathna, actors in the film.

The discussion was moderated by Senior Lecturer Dr. Mangala Keerthi Pasqual of the Department of Mass Communication. Additionally, Senior Lecturer Saman Rajapaksha, Acting Head of the Department of Mass Communication; academic staff members; and students, attended the event.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was formally signed between Janathakshan GTE Ltd and the Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, on 29th July 2025, marking a key milestone in the implementation of the project titled "Fostering Climate Change Action Ambassadors: Empowering Youth for Climate Resilience (HSBC_CCAA)".

This partnership aims to strengthen youth engagement in climate change adaptation and resilience by supporting academic collaboration, student-led climate projects, and awareness initiatives across Sri Lankan universities.

Held at the Vice-Chancellor’s office, the event was graced by senior representatives from both institutions. From Janathakshan GTE Ltd, Dr. Janaka Hemathilaka, Chief Executive Officer; Ms. Sharon De Alwis, Head of Human Resources; Ms. Nilwala Ravihari, Senior Manager; and Ms. Malsha Gunerathne, Project Officer, participated in the ceremony.

Representing the University of Kelaniya, Senior Professor Nilanthi Renuka de Silva, Vice-Chancellor; Mr. K. K. K. Dharmathilaka, Registrar; Professor M. M. Gunatilake, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences; and Senior Professor K. Karunathilake, Head of the Department of Sociology, were in attendance, along with Lecturer Mrs. W. M. Gayathri Panampitiya, Lecturer Mrs. H. Sachini Nisansala Silva, and Lecturer Mr. R. M. Auchithya Rathnayake, academic staff members of the department.

Marking a milestone in student-led sustainability efforts, the GreenSpire Club of the Faculties of Social Sciences and Humanities, hosted its first annual award ceremony, “Harithabhiman 2025,” on July 31, 2025, at the Auditorium of the Faculty of Social Sciences. The club is facilitated by the Centre for Sustainability Solutions, which has been a driving force behind its growth and direction.

The ceremony was graced by the presence of Prof. M. M. Gunathilake, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, as the Chief Guest, along with Dr. Sudath Senarath, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities. Also in attendance was Prof. Madhurika Nanayakkara, Deputy Director of the Centre for Sustainability Solutions.

The event welcomed a wide range of distinguished invitees, including academic staff from both faculties, professors, senior lecturers, and lecturers as well as representatives from the Centre for Sustainability Solutions. Over 300 participants gathered to witness this vibrant celebration of green leadership and commitment.

The highlight of Harithabhiman 2025 included the launch of “Greenity” magazine, an eco-themed publication showcasing student voices and green initiatives. The newly appointed GreenSpire Board for the upcoming term was officially installed during the event, setting the stage for another year of impactful environmental action.

One of the most anticipated moments was the presentation of appreciation certificates and awards to those who played key roles in the successful completion of eight major projects that aimed to advance environmentally focused Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These projects reflected the club's mission to combine youth enthusiasm with sustainable practices to foster a greener future.

Founded on the spirit of teamwork and environmental passion, GreenSpire Club continues to grow as a dynamic platform for university students who are determined to make a positive impact on both campus and community ecosystems. Harithabhiman 2025 was not only a celebration of past achievements but also a promise of continued dedication to environmental sustainability.