Postgraduate Convocation 2023

Message from the Chancellor

It is with great pleasure that I am issuing this message to the convocation ceremony as the University’s Chancellor. Today marks the beginning of a new chapter in your life, filled with possibilities and purpose.
As you step forward, I want to share a timeless lesson that speaks directly to the path ahead. The Buddha once asked his disciple, Rahula, “What is the purpose of a mirror?” Rahula answered, “To see our reflection.” The Buddha said, “Just like that, before you act through your body, mind, or words, you must reflect. Think carefully. Be mindful. Only then should you proceed.”
This wisdom is a powerful guide for your life. For every action, every word, and every decision, take a moment to pause, reflect, and ask yourself, “Is this right? Is this kind? Will it lead to good outcomes?” Just as a mirror shows our reflection, mindfulness allows us to see the impact of our choices.
Graduates, today I ask you to embrace this practice of reflection and mindfulness as you step into the world. It is easy to rush, to react, or to follow the crowd. But the greatest leaders, the most compassionate helpers, and the most innovative thinkers are those who take the time to reflect and act with intention.
As you leave this university, remember what you’ve learned here. Not just the knowledge in your books, but the values of hard work, resilience, and ethical responsibility. These will be your compass as you navigate life’s complexities.
Take every opportunity to grow, to help someone in need, and to make your community and country a better place. Whether you’re entering the workforce, pursuing further studies, or charting your own path, know that you carry the spirit of the University of Colombo with you.
As you imagine the future, keep this in mind: life is not just about what you achieve, but how you achieve it. Reflect often, act mindfully, and do your best with what you have.
Congratulations to each one of you. The world is ready for your brilliance. Go forward, be bold, and create something extraordinary.
I wish the blessings of the Noble Triple Gem for your career & life!!

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 gives me great pleasure to share my thoughts on the occasion of the Postgraduate Convocation 2023 of the University of Colombo.
Congratulations on reaching this wonderful milestone in your life!
I extend my heartiest compliments to all the learning partners for achieving your degrees and higher diplomas from your esteemed study programs. It is indeed a big day for candidates of the University of Colombo, as every student enrolled in a university waits for the day of graduation – the day of convocation, the flagship ceremonial event of the University and their lives. This day comes after a long interval for each learning partner, but for the University, it has remained an annual event. It is on this day that the University looks back to measure its achievements, while this day marks the beginning of a new journey for the students. You are the final product of our university this year. The University feels proud, witnessing the smiling faces of its graduates coming out in ceremonial gowns and being graduated on this momentous occasion. I am sure your learning experience has been the most fulfilling and satisfying. Without a doubt, it is an honor to receive a globally recognized degree from the number one university in Sri Lanka. I am proud and thankful for the untiring efforts and the continuing support and commitment of our highly qualified staff in producing globally acceptable graduates and good citizens.
You are graduating from the oldest university in Sri Lanka and ranked number one in Sri Lanka. Earning a degree may be easier than securing the qualities of an educated person in the world always. Therefore, I expect you to secure the quality of the University of Colombo name in the rest of your life.
Graduation should never mean goodbye. As an alumnus, I sincerely hope you will remain connected in some way to the University, as it will always be a place of interaction among extraordinary and diverse people.
I wish you every success. The world needs progressive, responsible, and compassionate graduates like you, and I am certain you will continue to make us proud.
I wish you a great future ahead.

Senior Professor (Chair) H.D. Karunaratne
Vice Chancellor, University of Colombo