Postgraduate Ceremonial Graduation 2024
University of Colombo conducted its Postgraduate Ceremonial Graduation for the year 2024 at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall on the 17th and 18th March 2026 under the patronage of the Vice Chancellor – Professor Indika Mahesh Karunathilake, Rector, Deans, Directors of the Institutes, Registrar, Bursar, Acting Librarian, Administrative and Finance Officers, Heads of the Departments.
During this ceremony, a total of 3969 Postgraduate Diplomas, Masters and Research degrees were conferred across eight different sessions. The Honorary Degree of Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) was awarded to Professor L M V Tillekeratne at Session IV held on 18th March, during which he also delivered the convocation address. Moreover, the Vice Chancellor’s Awards for Research Excellence were presented to eight distinguished academic staff members, recognising their outstanding contributions and achievements in the field.
| SESSION | POSTGRADUATE DEGREE /DIPLOMA | NO. OF GRANDAUNTS |
| March 17, 2026 Session I Faculty of Arts, Faculty of Education, Faculty of Graduate Studies, Faculty of Management and Finance, Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biotechnology, National Institute of Library and Information Science |
Postgraduate Diploma | 517 |
| Session II Faculty of Indigenous Medicine, Faculty of Law, Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of Science, Institute of Human Resource Advancement, Postgraduate Institute of Medicine, University of Colombo School of Computing |
Postgraduate Diploma | 517 |
| Session III Faculty of Graduate Studies, Faculty of Science, National Institute of Library and Information Science |
Master’s Degree | 492 |
| Session IV Faculty of Graduate Studies |
Master’s Degree | 464 |
| March 18, 2026 Session I Faculty of Arts, Sri Palee Campus, Faculty of Education |
Master’s Degree | 543 |
| Session II Faculty of Law, Institute of Human Resource Advancement, Postgraduate Institute of Medicine |
Master’s Degree | 483 |
| Session III Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of Management and Finance, Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biotechnology, University of Colombo School of Computing, Postgraduate Institute of Indigenous Medicine MPhil:- All Faculties /Institutes PhD:- All Faculties /Institutes |
Master’s Degree Doctor of Medicine Doctor of Business Administration Master of Philosophy Doctor of Philosophy |
372 2 4 19 69 |
| Session IV Postgraduate Institute of Medicine |
Doctor of Medicine | 487 |
| Total | 3969 |
Message from the Chancellor
Proud Families, and my dear graduands of today, 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 pleasure to extend my warm greetings on the occasion of the Postgraduate Convocation 2024 of the University of Colombo. Today marks a significant milestone in the lives of our graduates. I warmly congratulate each one of you for your dedication, perseverance, and commitment in reaching this important achievement. Your success reflects not only your personal determination but also the guidance and support of your teachers, families, and the University community. The convocation ceremony stands as one of the most prestigious traditions of the University, celebrating academic excellence and recognising the accomplishments of our graduates. It is indeed a proud moment for the University of Colombo to witness our graduates step forward in their ceremonial gowns to receive their degrees and higher diplomas.
As graduates of the oldest and the highest-ranked university in Sri Lanka, you now carry the responsibility of upholding the reputation and values of the University of Colombo. While academic success is an important achievement, the true mark of an educated person lies in the ability to contribute meaningfully to society with integrity, wisdom, and compassion. As you embark on the next phase of your journey, I encourage you to use the knowledge and skills you have gained to create positive change in your communities and beyond. The world today needs graduates who are innovative, responsible, and committed to the betterment of humanity.
Although today marks the completion of your formal studies, your connection with the University of Colombo will always remain. As valued members of our alumni community, I hope you will continue to engage with your alma mater and contribute to its continued growth and success. Once again, I congratulate all graduates and wish you every success and fulfilment in your future endeavours. May your future be bright and your achievements continue to bring pride to yourselves and to the University of Colombo.
Professor Indika Mahesh Karunathilake
Vice Chancellor
University of Colombo
Media Courtesy: Fos Media