2025. M. Savindu Dilshara, a student at the University of Kelaniya, secured first place in the University Grants Commission's (UGC) competition for innovative solutions to gender-specific problems, held in celebration of International Women's Day 2025. The awards ceremony took place on the 11^th of March 2025 at the UGC Auditorium. This prestigious achievement marks a significant milestone for the University of Kelaniya, as Dilshara outperformed competitors from state universities across the country.

Savindu Dilshara also serves as the Secretary of the Gender Equity and Equality Club, Centre for Gender Studies, University of Kelaniya. The Centre for Gender Studies at the University of Kelaniya has always been committed to fostering innovation and leadership in addressing gender-related challenges. As part of this mission, the Centre actively encouraged and supported Dilshara’s participation in the competition, recognizing his potential to drive meaningful change. His groundbreaking approach, which offers a transformative solution to key gender issues in academic and social settings, reflects the Centre’s dedication to empowering individuals who strive for equity and inclusion. By nurturing innovative thinking and providing a platform for impactful initiatives, the Centre continues to be at the forefront of advancing gender discourse and sustainable solutions.

The event was held to mark Women's Day celebrations at the University Grants Commission's Centre for Gender Equity and Equality. The memento and cash prize were presented to Dilshara by Deshamanya Dr. Radhika Coomaraswamy, former Under-Secretary of the United Nations and Special Rapporteur on Violence Against Women, who graced the occasion as the chief guest. Prof. Kapila Senevirathne, Chairman of the UGC, further emphasized the significance of this competition in fostering gender equality and innovative problem-solving in Sri Lanka’s higher education sector.

This victory highlights the commitment of the University of Kelaniya and its Center for Gender Studies to promoting gender equity and empowering students to contribute to meaningful social change. It also reinforces the role of Sri Lankan universities in generating practical solutions to contemporary gender-related challenges.