World Philosophy Day organized by the Department of Philosophy held on the 16^th of November 2023 at the Social Sciences Auditorium, University of Kelaniya, is an annual event established by UNESCO in 2002. It aims to emphasize the significance of philosophy in various aspects of human life, such as critical thinking, dialogue,

and the pursuit of wisdom. This provides a global platform for people to engage in philosophical discussions, contemplate philosophical ideas, and explore how philosophy can contribute to addressing global challenges and fostering a more peaceful and just society.

Fostering cultural exchange and dialogue by bringing together people from diverse backgrounds to share philosophical ideas and perspectives, raising awareness about the value of philosophy as an educational discipline and its role in shaping well-rounded individuals, and delivering philosophical knowledge for the future sustainability of humankind were the key objectives of the event.

Professor Jayantha Senavirathna was the Chief Guest and Professor M. M. Gunatilake, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences was the Guest of Honor of the event.

The Department of Philosophy at the University of Kelaniya, as well as many other universities and institutes worldwide, annually celebrates this day to underscore the importance of philosophy. It serves as a reminder of philosophy’s enduring relevance in our intellectual and cultural heritage, critical thinking, and a better understanding of the complexities of our world.

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A special discussion was held on 27^th October 2023, at the Research Center of the Faculty of Social Sciences between Professor M. M. Gunatilake, the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, and Professor Aaron Russell, the Assistant Head of School (International), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Australia.

It was discussed at length regarding developing the quality of sports degree courses in the university, getting the necessary contribution to obtain post-graduate study opportunities in the fields of sports education, carrying out sports research for the upliftment of the sports education field in Sri Lanka, and through that to get the necessary advice to uplift sports education effectively. In this regard, it was decided to have an extensive discussion with Senior Professor Nilanthi de Silva, Vice Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya.

Accordingly, the said discussion was held on 3^rd November 2023 at the Vice Chancellor’s office premises of the University.

​Senior Lecturer Mrs. Anoma Rathnayaka, the Head of the Department of Sports Science and Physical Education of the Faculty of Social Sciences, and a group of delegates from the International Scholar Educational Services Pvt Ltd (Sri Lanka) also graced the discussion.

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Under the Palm Leaf Manuscripts Collection and Digitization project conducted by the Palm Leaf Manuscripts Study and Research Library (PLMSRL), attached to Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, the first event of collecting and digitizing of Palm Leaf Manuscripts commenced at Palm Leaf Manuscripts repository available at the Meerigama Wal Bothale Raja Maha Vihararya on 13^th October 2023 after the temporary suspension of the task,

owing to the covid 19 pandemic and recent economic crisis situation. 

Resource persons of the task were guided by Senior Prof. M. K. Weerasinghe, the Director of PLMSRL and the Head of the Department of Library Information (DLIS) comprised of Ven. Dr. Lagumdeniye Piyarathana Thero and some staff members of DLIS and the Technical staff of the PLMSRL.

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Prof. Rajesh Kumar, the Dean of the Faculty of Education, Osmania University, Hyderabad, the Director of Physical Education, Osmania University, Hyderabad and the President of the International Federation of Physical Education, Fitness and Sports Science Associations,

India, and Dr Veerender Chennoju, Sports Psychologist, Hyderabad, India met Senior Professor Nilanthi de Silva, Vice Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya and Professor M. M. Gunatilake, the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences of the University of Kelaniya, on the 20^th of October 2023 at the office premises of the Vice Chancellor.

The main objective of this discussion is to foster Sri Lankan sports through the exchange of sports knowledge internationally and to attract international attention to sports in tourism.

A long discussion was held between the Vice-Chancellor and the Dean regarding holding an international research conference covering all sports subjects at the University of Kelaniya in the year 2024 with the cooperation of the relevant institutions.

Senior Lecturer Mrs. Anoma Rathnayaka, Head of the Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, Faculty of Social Sciences also graced the event.

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