General Convocation 2024 (Phase II)

The University of Colombo conducted its General Convocation 2024 (Phase II) at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall on the 27^th and 28^th August 2025 under the patronage of the Venerable Chancellor Sasana Keerthi Sri Buddha Sasana Shobhana Venerable Muruththettuwe Ananda Nayaka Thero, with the presence of the Vice Chancellor Professor Indika Mahesh Karunathilake, Rector, Deans, Directors of the Institutes, Registrar, Bursar, Acting Librarian, Academic Staff, Administrative and Finance Officers.
This momentous event of the University of Colombo, witnessed the conferring of degrees upon a total of 2842 students in various study disciplines including Mass Media, Performing Arts, Ayurveda Medicine and Surgery and Unani Medicine and Surgery, Arts, Labour Education, Labour Management, MBBS, Physiotherapy, Nursing, Agro-Technology, Computer Science, Information Systems, Software Engineering, Education, Law, Management & Finance, Biosystems Technology in Agriculture, Engineering Technology in Instrumentation & Automation, Information and Communication Technology and Science.
At this year’s Convocation, 40 University Academic Excellence Awards were conferred, while five Open Awards were presented at the final session held on 28 August 2025 in recognition of outstanding achievements.

General Convocation 2024 (Phase I) on 2^nd April 2025

Message from the Chancellor

It is with immense joy and pride that I address you today at this convocation ceremony as the University’s Chancellor. Today marks the culmination of years of learning, growth, and shared experiences within these university walls. You have not only absorbed knowledge from lectures and books but also learned from challenges, friendships, and the countless moments that shaped your character. As you prepare to embark on your next journey, I wish to share a timeless teaching from the Dhammapada (Citta Vagga) that speaks directly to mastering our thoughts:
“Durangaman ekacaram, Asariram guhāsayam;
Ye cittaṃ saṃyamessanti, Mokkhanti māra-bandhanā.”
These words remind us: The mind travels far, wanders alone, is without a body, and dwells in the cave of the heart. Those who discipline it are freed from the bonds of Māra. Graduates, the greatest battles we face are often within our minds. A restless or undisciplined mind can scatter your energy, cloud your judgment, and weaken your potential. But a mind trained in focus, clarity, and compassion becomes your greatest ally, guiding your words, decisions, and actions towards meaningful success. As you step into the wider world, remember to guard your thoughts as carefully as you would guard your most precious possessions. Feed your mind with ideas that inspire, not those that limit. Steer your thinking towards kindness, creativity, and solutions rather than complaints and fear.
Your education here has given you knowledge, but self-discipline will give you mastery. The world is full of noise, so discipline your thoughts, and you will always hear the right direction. Today, we celebrate your accomplishments. Tomorrow, we will witness the change you create. Go forward with a mind trained in wisdom, a heart rooted in compassion, and a spirit ready to serve.
Congratulations, and may your disciplined mind lead you to extraordinary heights.

Sasana Keerthi Sri Buddha Sasana Shobhana
Venerable Muruththettuwe Ananda Nayaka Thero
Chief Sanghanayake Western Province
Chancellor, University of Colombo

Message from the Vice Chancellor

It is a great honour and privilege to issue this message at this momentous occasion, the General Convocation of the University of Colombo 2024. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the awardees on successfully completing your degrees. Graduation is a long-awaited moment in every student’s life, the Convocation, the flagship ceremonial event of our university. As you begin this new stage of your life, I encourage you to value the friendships and experiences you made here. The knowledge and skills you gained will be a strong base for your future.
We are truly proud to see your smiling faces in graduation gowns on this important day. Earning a degree from the number one university in Sri Lanka is a great honor. I also thank our dedicated staff for their hard work in preparing you to be not only skilled professionals but also good citizens. Yet, graduation should never mean goodbye. I sincerely hope you will remain connected to the University of Colombo, which will always be a place of knowledge, diversity, and inspiration.
The world today needs progressive, responsible, and compassionate graduates like you. Remember, true success lies not only in academic achievements, but also in your ability to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Use your education to inspire, innovate, and contribute to a better future for all.
As you step forward, continue to question, to seek knowledge, and to adapt in this ever-changing world. May you strive for excellence, pursue your passions, and make a lasting impact wherever you go.
I wish you every success in your future endeavours.

Professor Indika Mahesh Karunathilake
Vice Chancellor, University of Colombo