Academic Session_2026_Write-up and Image Album
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The Vice Chancellor’s Awards and Academic Sessions 2026 of the University of Ruhuna was successfully held on 4th March 2026 at the Faculty of Engineering, Hapugala, Galle, under the theme “Knowledge, Innovation, and Resilience: Towards Sustainable Futures through Technology”. The event served as an important platform for recognizing academic excellence, research achievements, and scholarly contributions across the University. The occasion was graced by Senior Professor P. A. Jayantha, Vice Chancellor of the University of Ruhuna, whose presence highlighted the significance of celebrating research excellence and academic accomplishments within the university community. The keynote address, titled “Research in the Era of AI and Advanced Technologies,” was delivered by Senior Professor Ruwan Gopura from the Faculty of Engineering, University of Moratuwa. The keynote provided valuable insights into emerging research directions and the impact of advanced technologies and artificial intelligence on contemporary research. A significant highlight of the occasion was the conferment of the Emeritus Professorship on Senior Professor (Ms.) K. A. P. W. Jayatilaka from the Faculty of Medicine, recognizing her distinguished academic service and contributions to the University. The Oration was delivered by Professor G. G. Tushara Chaminda on the topic “The Contribution of Pharmaceutical Pollutants in Sri Lankan Waters to Antibiotic Resistance.” The presentation highlighted the environmental presence of pharmaceutical residues in water bodies and their potential role in promoting antibiotic-resistant microorganisms. The Oration emphasized the importance of effective waste management, environmental monitoring, and research to address this emerging public health concern. It also drew attention to the relevance of this issue within the Sri Lankan context. During the event, Best Presenter Awards were presented to the recipients of the Academic Sessions 2025, covering both technical sessions and poster presentations in recognition of their outstanding research presentations. A highlight of the event was the presentation of the Vice Chancellor’s Awards, which recognize outstanding academic achievements within the University. Dr. K. G. Priyashantha from the Faculty of Management and Finance was honored as the Most Outstanding Scholar of the University, while Dr. K. L. Kushan Sudheera from the Faculty of Engineering received the award for the Most Outstanding Young Researcher. Furthermore, Professor Anoja P. Attanayaka from the Faculty of Medicine was recognized as the Most Outstanding Staff Inventor/Innovator. In recognition of exceptional research performance, the UOR Tier 4 Star Award was presented to Senior Professor Ajith Nagahawatta from the Faculty of Medicine and Senior Professor D. A. L. Leelamanie from the Faculty of Agriculture. The Academic Sessions provided a platform for researchers, academic staff, and postgraduate students to present their research findings through technical and poster sessions covering a wide range of disciplines. The event facilitated knowledge sharing, interdisciplinary engagement, and the dissemination of new research findings within the university community. A total of 123 abstracts were accepted for presentation, while 05 submissions were desk rejected and 07 abstracts were withdrawn due to unavoidable reasons (refer to Tables 1 and 3). Faculty-wise submissions (refer to Table 2) indicated that the Faculty of Engineering contributed the highest proportion (39%), followed by the Faculty of Agriculture (16%), the Faculty of Technology (14%), and the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences (13%). Other faculties of the University also contributed to the academic sessions. In total, 10 technical sessions and 3 poster sessions were conducted under seven thematic areas, showcasing research presented by university staff as well as postgraduate and undergraduate students. The event programme also included two cultural dance performances presented by undergraduate students of the Faculty of Engineering, which added a vibrant cultural element to the proceedings. The programme was smoothly conducted with the support of a dedicated team of Masters of Ceremonies. The event attracted more than 400 participants, reflecting strong engagement from the university community. The event was organized under the leadership of Professor Sudhira De Silva, Chair of the Organizing Committee, with Dr. Kumudu Seneviratna serving as the Secretary. The successful conduct of the event was made possible through the collective efforts and support of academic, administrative, non-academic staff and students who contributed to its organization. Overall, the Vice Chancellor’s Awards and Academic Sessions – 2026 strengthened the research culture of the University of Ruhuna by recognizing scholarly excellence and providing a platform for academic engagement and collaboration.
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