Department of Archaeology of the University of Kelaniya, and the Department of Archaeology and History of the La Trobe University, Australia look forward to working together to enhance the Archaeological research in Polonnaruwa to a greater extent.

Therefore, the initial discussion was held with Senior Prof. Nilanthi de Silva, Vice Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya, Dr. Keir Strickland, La Trobe University Australia, and Prof. Robin Coningham, UNESCO Chair on Archaeological Ethics and Practice in Cultural Heritage, Durham University, UK. The discussion was held at the Vice Chancellors’ Office on the 12^th of October 2023.

In this Discussion, the steps have been taken to initiate a three-year Archaeological and Anthropological research project in Polonnaruwa, and Season one will begin in January 2024. The MOU which is relevant to the project will be signed in January 2024.

Prof. M. M. Gunatilake, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Dr. Sriyani Hathurusinghe, Head of the Department of Archaeology, Cadre Chair and Senior. Prof. Prishanta Gunawardhana, Department of Archaeology, Prof. A. G. Amarasinghe, Director of the Research Centre for Social Sciences, Senior Prof. Gamini Adikari, Director of the Postgraduate Institute of Archaeology, Senior Lecturer Dr. Chandima Bogahawatta, Department of Archaeology, Senior Lecturer Mr. Harendralal Namalgamuwa, Department of Archaeology, Dr. Chris Davis, Durham University UK, Ms. Disha Ahluwalia, Baroda University, India, were also on this occasion.

See More

The Palm Leaf Manuscript Study and Research Library can be considered as one of the most important heritage centres of the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Kelaniya. The library always encourages donors to donate palm-leaf manuscripts all over the island. Dr. Kelum Puspha Kumara from Anuradhapura donated 44 palm leaf manuscripts to the centre on 20^th of October 2023.

The occasion was graced by Senior Professor Nilanthi de Silva, Vice Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya, Professor M. M. Gunatilake, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Senior Professor M. K. Weerasinghe, Director of Palm Leaf Manuscripts Study and Research Library, Senior Professor W. A. Weerasooriya, Lecturer Ven. Bopeththe Somananda Thero and Lecturer Mr. Shanaka Wanniarachchi.

See More

The Department of Library and Information Science (DLIS) of the University of Kelaniya which was established in 1973 celebrated its 50th Anniversary in 2023.

In order to mark the anniversary year, Senior Professor Nilanthi De Silva, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya launched an anniversary logo. An additional premise called T.G. Piyadasa Premise offered by the Librarian of the University of Kelaniya was also added to the DLIS as the first respected activity.

Launching of anniversary year planner, ICLIM web, VIDYARTHI Journal web, student Journal pustakāla vidyā, and casting of three videos were accomplished at this event.

Followed by the event was a meeting presided over by Senior Professor Nilanthi de Silva at the Staff Development Centre of the university. Present at the occasion were Professor M. M. Gunathilake, Dean – Faculty of Social Sciences, Dr. C. C. Jayasundra, Librarian – University of Kelaniya, Professor M. K. Weerasinghe, Head – DLIS, Deans of faculties, Heads of Departments, academic staff, members of the DLIS Alumni, undergraduates, and other invitees. The relatives of the late Mr. T. G. Piyadasa – the founding Librarian of the university who was a pioneer in DLIS also participated in this occasion. 

See More

A book launching ceremony was held on the 4^th of May 2023 at the auditorium of the Faculty of Social Sciences to launch the book, 'The Development of Provincial and Local Government Institutions in Sri Lanka: 1833-1872’, by Emeritus Professor M. U. de Silva, a former Senior Professor at the University of Ruhuna.

He is the first postgraduate holder in History at the University of Kelaniya. The ceremony was organized by Research Centre for Social Sciences.

The event was graced by Professor M. M. Gunatilake, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences as the chief guest and Emeritus Professor M. U. de Silva as the guest of honor. Emeritus Professor U. B. Karunananda provided a review of the book while the Director of RCSS, Professor A. G. Amarasinghe, family members and colleagues of Professor M. U. de Silva, and staff members of the Faculty of Social Sciences were also present at the occasion.

See More