The University of Kelaniya, in collaboration with the Cambrian International Study Centre (CISC) in Bangladesh, celebrates an important achievement as the First graduate of the Postgraduate programs for Bangladeshi students, Mrs. Nahida Akter, has been awarded the Master of Business Administration (MBA) Degree. Mrs. Akter received her degree during the University’s 145th Convocation, held on 25th September 2024 at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) in Colombo.

This landmark moment stems from an agreement initiated between the University of Kelaniya and Cambrian International Study Centre (CISC), Bangladesh designed to offer Postgraduate Programs specifically for Bangladeshi students. The partnership was spearheaded by the former Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies, Professor Ariyarathne Jayamaha, following an institutional review to extend the University’s academic offering to Bangladesh. This initiative reflects the University of Kelaniya’s commitment to expanding its international academic outreach and providing high-quality educational opportunities across borders.

Mrs. Nahida Akter’s accomplishment is a testament to her dedication and academic excellence. She successfully completed her coursework, met the rigorous requirements of the MBA program, and defended her viva examination. Her achievement sets a commendable example for future candidates enrolled in this international postgraduate collaboration. The awarding of the MBA degree to Mrs. Akter underscores the success of the partnership between the University of Kelaniya and Cambrian International Study Centre (CISC), and it reaffirms the University’s mission to foster global academic cooperation and contribute to the professional development of students from diverse regions.

This convocation marks a proud moment for both institutions, as they continue to strengthen ties and expand opportunities for students in Bangladesh to pursue advanced degrees under the prestigious academic guidance of the University of Kelaniya.

The inauguration of the first-ever Master of Medical Statistics program in Sri Lanka, organized by the Faculty of Graduate Studies of the University of Kelaniya was held on the 25th of August 2024, at the prestigious “Cosmic by Citrus, Lotus Tower" in Colombo.

The Master of Medical Statistics program, developed by the Board of Study in Multidisciplinary Studies, addresses the growing demand for skilled professionals in healthcare data analysis and interpretation. The curriculum is meticulously aligned with the Sri Lanka Qualification Framework (SLQF Level 09) and International Education Standards (IES), ensuring graduates are well-prepared to excel in both local and global healthcare environments. Approved by the University Grants Commission (UGC) of Sri Lanka in 2023, the program is designed to meet the highest academic standards.

Dr. Anura Karunarathne, Chairman of the Board of Study in Multidisciplinary Studies, warmly welcomed the gathering. Senior Professor Nilanthi De Silva, Vice-chancellor of the University of Kelaniya, presided as the Chief Guest, reaffirming the university’s dedication to academic excellence and innovation, while Senior Professor Kapila Senaviratne, Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies, participated as the Guest of Honor, further emphasizing the significance of the event.

The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Palitha Mahipala, Secretary to the Ministry of Health, who emphasized the historical significance and evolution of medical statistics, highlighting its vital role in the healthcare sector. Dr. Mahipala also described the launch of this program as a landmark moment in Sri Lanka's medical history. Drawing on his global expertise, he expressed pride in witnessing the commencement of such a groundbreaking initiative in the country. He extended his thoughts on utilization of medical statistics as tool in the policymaking and reliable decision making, at the level of administration of the healthcare sector.

Dr. Sudath Samaraweera, Director of the National Dengue Control Unit, Ministry of Health, followed with an insightful speech that set an engaging tone for the evening. Senior Professor Chrishantha Abeysena from the Department of Public Health, a leading advocate for establishing the Board of Study in Multidisciplinary Studies and Master of Medical Statistics Degree program, provided valuable insights into the program. The vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. U.P. Liyanage, Academic Coordinator of the Master of Medical Statistics Program.

Among the distinguished attendees were Senior Professor Sudath Kalingamudali, Dean of the Faculty of Science, Professor Madawa Chandratilake, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Professor Bandara Wanninayake, Dean of the Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, and Senior Professor Ariyarathne Jayamaha, former Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies, who played a pivotal role in laying the foundation for this initiative.

Also present at the occasion were Professor C. Pathirawasam, Director of the Quality Assurance Cell (QAC); Mr. K. B. S. L. Wijeratne, Secretary of the Board of Study in Multidisciplinary Studies and Deputy Registrar of the Faculty of Graduate Studies; professors and other academic staff members of the university; distinguished gathering of academics, officials from the ministry of health; healthcare professionals; supportive staff of the Faculty of Graduate Studies, and the new batch of students of the Master of Medical Statistics Program.