News & Events

In a remarkable display of unity towards environmental consciousness, the Green Practice Committee at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya (GPC), the Centre for Sustainability Solutions, University of Kelaniya (CSS) and have teamed up with Commercial Bank PLC, Sri Lanka. Their joint initiative aims to enhance the sustainability and natural beauty of the Faculty of Medicine (FOM) grounds and its surroundings.

On April 1st, 2024, this collaborative effort bore fruit as 400 saplings were successfully planted on the premises, generously provided by Commercial Bank PLC. The event was graced by esteemed personalities including Senior Professor Nilanthi De Silva, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya; Prof. A. K. W. Jayawardane, Chairman of Commercial Bank PLC; Prof. Madawa Chandrathilake, the Dean of FOM, Mr. K. K. Dharmathilaka, the Registrar the University, Director/CSS and several other distinguished guests representing University and Commercial Bank PLC.

The occasion not only celebrated the planting of trees but also marked the inauguration of construction of a new walking path adjacent to the Ayati centre of the FOM, enhancing accessibility for special needs students. Additionally, organic vegetables cultivated by FOM under the supervision of landscape division, FOM were generously gifted to all the guests, further highlighting the commitment to sustainability.

Senior Professor Nilanthi De Silva commended the collaborative effort, emphasizing the significance of the partnership between the University of Kelaniya and the private sector in promoting environmental stewardship. She expressed gratitude to all involved for their dedication and hard work.

In his address, Prof. A. K. W. Jayawardane reiterated Commercial Bank PLC's commitment to supporting sustainable initiatives, particularly those involving young minds. He expressed the bank's willingness to continue supporting future projects aimed at nurturing a greener environment.

Prof. Madawa Chandratilake, Dean FOM emphasized the power of collective action in driving positive environmental change. He highlighted the symbolism behind each tree planted, representing a shared vision for a sustainable future.

As the saplings take root and grow, this collaboration between the University of Kelaniya and Commercial Bank PLC serves as a beacon of hope for a greener tomorrow. It underscores the potency of partnerships in fostering environmental consciousness and nurturing a shared vision for a sustainable future.

On February 17, 2024, the University of Kelaniya's Centre for Sustainability Solutions (CSS) joined forces with the Center for Beach Cleanups, Sri Lanka, for a massive volunteer event at Crow Island Beach Park. An impressive 654 volunteers participated, representing a diverse range of organizations, including government bodies, NGOs, and higher education institutions. Mr. Lahiru Wijeyrathne, founder of the Center for Beach Cleanups, Sri Lanka, played a crucial role in organizing and guiding the team throughout the event.

Demonstrating the University of Kelaniya's commitment to environmental sustainability, over 100 undergraduates participated alongside leadership figures: Dr. Wasanthi Subasinghe (Director, CSS), Dr. Pansuji Dissanayaka (Deputy Director, CSS), Mr. Hashan Wijeshinghe (Faculty of Social Sciences representative), and Mr. Buddhika Wickramasingha (CSS Project Assistant). The enthusiastic team of volunteers collected a staggering 2,000kg of plastic, glass, rubber waste, and other debris, highlighting the urgent need for collective action to address coastal pollution. The collected waste was either responsibly recycled or handed over to the relevant authorities for proper disposal.

Beyond waste removal, the cleanup served as a platform to raise awareness of responsible citizenship among participants. By uniting over 650 individuals for a common cause, the event organizers demonstrated the transformative power of collective action in building a cleaner, healthier planet. This successful event stands as a testament to the university's role as a catalyst for positive environmental change, inspiring others to follow suit.

We are delighted to announce that Mr. Sayuru Jayasekara, a student of the Sustainability Leadership Training Program (SLTP) offered by the Centre for Sustainability Solutions, University of Kelaniya, has been selected to participate in the JENESYS (Japan SAARC Network Program of People-to-People Exchange) - 3rd Batch: "Environment." This esteemed program, organized by the Government of Japan, aims to foster international understanding and collaboration on environmental issues.

Mr. Jayasekara's selection for this program underscores his dedication to sustainability and his commitment to exploring solutions for global environmental challenges. His participation in the JENESYS program not only highlights his academic excellence but also showcases the Center for Sustainability Solutions as a hub for nurturing future leaders in environmental conservation.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Jayasekara on this remarkable achievement and wish him every success as he represents our institution on the international stage.

In a resounding commitment to environmental conservation, the Centre for Sustainability Solutions (CSS) at the University of Kelaniya (UOK), in partnership with the Center for Beach Cleanups, Sri Lanka, orchestrated a massive volunteer event on December 2, 2023, aimed at reclaiming the shores of Uswetakeiyawa Beach. Mr. Lahiru Wijeyrathne, founder of the Center for Beach Cleanups, played a pivotal role in the meticulous organization and guidance of the team throughout the event.

The impressive turnout of 100 participants, including representatives from various non-government organizations, marked a pivotal moment in the university's dedication to fostering sustainable practices. At the forefront of this impactful initiative were notable figures such as Dr. Wasanthi Subasinghe, Director of the Centre for Sustainability Solutions; Dr. Amila Jeewandara, Lecturer from the Faculty of Computing and Technology; Mr. Indunil Sandaruwan Ranwella, from the Faculty of Social Sciences; and Mr. Buddhika Wickramasingha, Project Assistant at CSS. Their active involvement demonstrated a united front in the university's mission to combat pollution and promote responsible environmental practices.

Mr. Wijeyrathne's guidance and leadership, alongside the collaborative efforts of university faculty and enthusiastic volunteers, resulted in the collection of an astounding 1000kg of plastic, glass, rubber waste, and other debris during the cleanup. This substantial amount highlights the severity of coastal pollution and the necessity for collective action to address it.

Adding to the strength of the cleanup endeavor were the enthusiastic volunteer members of the Aquatic Club and the Green Club of the University of Kelaniya. This diverse collaboration showcased the power of collective action and emphasized the university's commitment to instilling a sense of environmental responsibility among its students and staff. The collective effort was not confined to a physical cleanup alone. The collected waste, weighing 1000kg, found a second life through donations to recycling centers, aligning with the university's broader commitment to sustainable waste management. Simultaneously, other waste materials were disposed of responsibly, reflecting the event's holistic approach to environmental stewardship.

Beyond the immediate impact on Uswetakeiyawa Beach, the initiative sought to raise awareness of responsible citizenship among participants and the wider public. Undoubtedly, the Beach Cleanup event has left an indelible mark on the young and young-at-heart contributors, further solidifying the University of Kelaniya's role as a catalyst for positive environmental change. As the echoes of this impactful initiative reverberate, the University of Kelaniya stands as a beacon of inspiration for communities, demonstrating that collective action can indeed make a substantial difference in creating a cleaner, healthier planet for present and future generations.