University of Ruhuna Alumnus Ajmal Abdul Azees Shines as Finalist at 2024 Victorian International Education Awards

The University of Ruhuna is proud to announce that one of its distinguished alumni, Eng. Ajmal Abdul Azees, has been recognised as a finalist at the prestigious 2024 Victorian International Education Awards in Australia. Ajmal, a graduate of the Department of Electrical and Information Engineering at the Faculty of Engineering, has earned this honour for his exceptional contributions to the field of biomedical engineering.

Currently pursuing his PhD at RMIT University and the Bionics Institute in Australia, Ajmal’s groundbreaking research focuses on the development of the world’s first multi- channel hybrid cochlear implant, a pioneering medical innovation with the potential to revolutionise the treatment of hearing loss. This novel cochlear implant, which combines electrical and optical stimulation, aims to deliver more precise and effective outcomes for
individuals with hearing impairments—an advancement that could transform the lives of millions around the world.

This achievement not only highlights the global potential of Sri Lankan talent but also reflects the strong educational foundation Ajmal received at the Faculty of Engineering, University of Ruhuna. His success underscores the importance of nurturing young engineers and researchers who are capable of making significant contributions to global scientific advancements.

Ajmal’s achievements have been recognised on an international scale, with the Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Paul Stephens, publicly congratulating him for his work. The High Commissioner emphasised the importance of educational ties between Sri Lanka and Australia, noting that Ajmal’s research is a shining example of the positive impact of such collaborations.

Throughout his academic journey, Ajmal has received numerous international awards, including the prestigious Prof. Field Rickards Award for Best Overall Student of the Year. He has published several journal articles on his research and has presented at leading international conferences. Additionally, he was selected as a MedTech Actuator Menzies Scholar, one of only 10 PhD students across Australia working on cutting-edge medical innovations.

Ajmal’s journey from the University of Ruhuna to international recognition serves as an inspiration for current and future students. His pioneering research on cochlear implants is set to make a lasting impact on the future of hearing technology and medical science.

The University of Ruhuna, the Faculty of Engineering, and the Department of Electrical and Information Engineering take great pride in celebrating Ajmal’s success and look forward to his continued contributions to the global scientific community.

Team SSJC Secures All-Island First Place in University Category at SLESA 2024 for Innovative Engineering Project

Congratulations to Team SSJC for securing First Place in the University Category at the SLESA (Sri Lankan Engineers in South Australia) competition, with the award ceremony held in South Australia on August 24, 2024. From numerous university teams, Team SSJC from the Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Ruhuna, was able to win First Place for their Final year project, "The Mushroom Grow Media Filling Machine with Automatic Bag Feeding Unit." The team was supervised by Dr. P.G.C.R. Gallage (Head of the Department) and co- supervised by Dr. L.K.T. Srimal.

The team consists of the following students:

 Piyarathna M.W.S.B – EG/2019/3701 (Team Leader)
 Gunawardana K.K.D.S.P – EG/2019/3593
 Kalhara M.H.C – EG/2019/3620
 Deshapriya S.K.J – EG/2019/3563

The Historic Inauguration of the Battle of Brotherhood in Sri Lankan Cricket History

In a landmark moment for Sri Lankan cricket, the University of Ruhuna and the University of Jaffna made history with the inaugural 'Battle of Brotherhood' – the first-ever cricket match between two state universities in the country. The event took place from March 29th to March 30th, 2024, at the University of Ruhuna, captivating the nation and ushering in a new era of sporting excellence and camaraderie.

The Battle of Brotherhood was not merely a cricket match; it was a symbol of unity, friendship, and reconciliation between the North and the South of Sri Lanka. Organized by the Social Reconciliation Center (SRC) at the University of Ruhuna, in collaboration with the University of Jaffna, this initiative aimed to foster connectivity and collaboration between university communities while promoting social harmony and mutual understanding.

The significance of this event could not be overstated. In a country where cricket holds a special place in the hearts of its people, the Battle of Brotherhood represented a historic milestone in the evolution of the sport. By bringing together students and academic staff members from different regions and backgrounds, this initiative served as a beacon of hope for a more harmonious and united Sri Lanka.

We are proud to announce that the Battle of Brotherhood received generous sponsorship from the High Commission of India, Colombo, Sri Lanka, and the Lyca Gnanam Foundation. Their support was instrumental in making this event a reality, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude to them for their commitment to promoting unity and friendship through sport.

As we reflect on this momentous occasion, let us remember the spirit of brotherhood and camaraderie that defined the Battle of Brotherhood. Let us celebrate the unity, friendship, and reconciliation that this historic event represented.

The Battle of Brotherhood was not just a cricket match; it was a testament to the power of sport to transcend boundaries and bring people together. We celebrated this historic event and the values of unity, friendship, and reconciliation that it represented.

In the 40-overs match, the University of Ruhuna team emerged as the champions, adding another layer of glory to this memorable event.

The University of Ruhuna and the University of Jaffna made history with the inaugural Battle of Brotherhood – a moment to remember in Sri Lankan cricket history.