The Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS) at the University of Kelaniya successfully hosted the Training Workshop on Development of Skills of Postgraduate Students (PhD/MPhil) in Research, Presentation and Leadership on August 4, 2024 at the Staff Development Centre, University of Kelaniya. The program attracted over 80 participants, including 10 who joined remotely, among them both national and international students.This workshop is a significant component of the Skills Development Program at the Faculty of Graduate Studies, reflecting the institution’s commitment to equipping its students with vital skills for their future endeavors.

The workshop comprehensively covered several key areas, including the Skills Development Program Evaluation Process, Information Searching and Referencing in Postgraduate Studies, Commercialization of Research and Professional Development, Research Presentation Guidelines and Techniques, Academic Writing Techniques and Publishing Research Findings, and Administrative Issues. These critical topics were expertly addressed by distinguished resource persons from the University of Kelaniya: Prof. Jeewantha Premaratne (Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science), Dr. Priyanwada Wanigasooriya (Department of Library and Information Science, Faculty of Social Sciences), Prof. Ravi Dissanayake (Department of Marketing Management, Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies), Senior Prof. Kapila Seneviratne (Dean, Faculty of Graduate Studies), Prof. Nimanthi Jayathilaka, Program Coordinator (Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science), and Mr. K.B.S.L. Wijeratne, Deputy Registrar of the Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS). Their collective expertise significantly contributed to the participants' understanding and skill development in these essential areas, ensuring a comprehensive and enriching experience for all attendees.

This Training Workshop on Development of Skills of Postgraduate Students (PhD/MPhil) not only enhanced the academic and professional capabilities of the participants but also fostered a sense of community and collaboration among the diverse group of students. The Faculty of Graduate Studies remains dedicated to providing such impactful programs that align with their mission of fostering excellence and innovation in postgraduate education. The success of this workshop underscores the University of Kelaniya's commitment to nurturing well-rounded, skilled graduates ready to make significant contributions to their fields.

On August 6, 2024, the Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS) at the University of Kelaniya hosted the second round of discussions with representatives from NextGen Interns, a US-based Global Comprehensive Internship Program. The meeting included Senior Professor N.A.K.P.J. Seneviratne, Dean of Faculty of Graduate Studies and Mr. K.B.S.L. Wijeratne, the Deputy Registrar of FGS, alongside Mr. Eric Hathaway and Ms.Sasha Hathaway from NextGen Interns.

NextGen Interns is a US based global organization dedicated to innovating the organizational landscape through empowerment, mentorship, and collaboration. Their mission is to revolutionize business practices by developing the next generation of leaders. By instilling principles of efficiency, purpose-led leadership, and innovative thinking in interns, NextGen Interns aims to transform organizational cultures and practices, fostering sustainable growth and positive change across various industries.

The primary objective of this partnership is to enhance the practical skills and global exposure of postgraduate students through meaningful internships. NextGen Interns provides the application process, training, and opportunities necessary for students to excel in their chosen fields. This collaboration ensures that postgraduate students are not only academically qualified but also well-prepared for the modern career world.

The discussions focused on the strategic implementation of the internship program, highlighting the mutual benefits for both institutions. The Faculty of Graduate Studies is committed to providing its students with comprehensive educational experiences that bridge the gap between academic learning and professional development. The partnership with NextGen Interns is a significant step towards achieving this goal.

By participating in this program, students will gain valuable hands-on experience, develop essential workplace skills, and broaden their global perspectives. This initiative aligns with the University of Kelaniya's mission to foster holistic education and prepare students to become competent professionals in their respective fields.

The collaboration between the Faculty of Graduate Studies and NextGen Interns represents a promising opportunity for postgraduate students to engage in internships that promote personal growth and professional excellence. The Faculty of Graduate Studies is enthusiastic about the potential impact of this partnership and looks forward to the positive outcomes it will bring for its students and the broader academic community.