Annual Research Symposium – 2024

The University of Colombo inaugurated its Annual Research Symposium 2024 on November 4, bringing together distinguished academics, students, and guests to highlight the groundbreaking research undertaken by the university community. Held at the Faculty of Graduate Studies Auditorium, the ceremony began at 1:30 pm and was organized around the theme, “Building a Sustainable Future through Impactful Research.” This theme underscores the university’s commitment to addressing pressing global challenges and advancing sustainable development through research.

Ms Azusa Kubota, the country representative of the United Nations Development Program, graced the event as the chief guest. A notable feature of the ceremony was the launch of the symposium’s electronic proceedings, a step forward in making research findings accessible to a broader audience. The proceedings were formally presented to esteemed guests symbolizing the university’s dedication to advancing research that contributes to sustainable and impactful solutions for complex global issues.

The event included a series of keynote addresses by prominent experts. Professor Mohan Munasinghe, founder of the Munasinghe Institute of Development, delivered a compelling presentation on “Transdisciplinary Research for Sustainability, BIGG, and Climate Justice,” advocating for integrated and inclusive approaches to sustainability and climate action. His address was followed by a dynamic cultural performance by students from the Department of Performing Arts at the Sri Palee Campus, creatively reinforcing the symposium’s theme.

The keynote sessions continued with Professor Yasuyuki Todo of Waseda University, Japan, who provided insights into the “Sustainable Development of Global Supply Chains,” addressing the complexities of sustainable business practices. The keynote series concluded with Dr Vinya S. Ariyaratne, President of the Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement, who spoke on “Building a Sustainable Future through Impactful Research: The Role of the Community and Civil Society,” emphasizing the vital role of community engagement in driving sustainable development.

A highlight of the ceremony was the recognition of ten University of Colombo researchers named among the world’s top 2% of scientists in 2023. The Senate Awards for Research Excellence and Commendation Awards were also presented to faculty members in recognition of their outstanding research publications. The success of the ARS 2024 symposium was attributed to the leadership of Senior Professor (Chair) H.D. Karunaratne, Vice Chancellor of the University, alongside a dedicated organizing team. This team included Professor Dilshani Dissanayaka, Chairperson of the event; Dr Sanjaya Thilakarathne, Chair of the Publicity and IT Committee; Professor Nimal Punyasiri, Chair of the Inauguration Committee; and Professor K.V. Dhanapala, Editor of the proceedings. Co-editor Professor Ruwan Gamage and Dr Pavithra Jayawardene, Co-Chair of the Inauguration Committee, as well as sub-committee members from across the university, contributed significantly to the event’s success.
The academic efforts were further supported by Mr S.M. Shifar, Assistant Registrar of the Academic and Publications Branch, along with contributions from Dr Sachini Amarasekara (Faculty of Science – FOS Media), Professor Hiran Jayaweera (Network Operating Center), and Dr Ruwan Kalubowila (Technomedia Unit, Faculty of Technology). Their collective efforts played a pivotal role in the seamless execution of the symposium. Throughout the year, symposium events were organized by the university’s nineteen entities, including faculties, campuses, and institutes, each exploring distinct themes and sub-themes while aligning with the central conference theme. This broad engagement underscored the university’s commitment to fostering interdisciplinary research dialogue and advancing academic excellence.

To extend its reach, the inauguration ceremony was live-streamed via the symposium’s webpage, allowing a global audience to participate in real-time. The ceremony not only celebrated the University of Colombo’s enduring commitment to research innovation but also inspired future generations of researchers and scholars to contribute meaningfully to a sustainable future.