The first phase of the “Young Journalist” training workshop series, organized by the Communication and Media Unit, University of Kelaniya, was successfully held from March 24 to 26, 2025, at the Auditorium of the Staff Development Centre, University of Kelaniya. The workshop was conducted under the theme “Towards a Responsible and Ethical Media Culture.”

Held under the supervision of Senior Lecturer Saman Rajapaksha, Director of the Communication and Media Unit, the event was aimed at enhancing the communication skills and competencies of the students of the University of Kelaniya. A notable feature of the series was that it was open to undergraduates from all the faculties of the University of Kelaniya, fostering an inclusive learning environment.

The workshop featured eight insightful sessions conducted by a distinguished panel of senior journalists from the electronic media sector in Sri Lanka. The resource persons included Mr. Suranga Senanayake, Channel Head of News 1st; Ms. Devika Kumarasinghe, Head of Unit (Educational) at Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation; Mr. Indika Weerakoon, Producer (News and Current Affairs) at ITN; Mr. Sanjaya Indrakumara, Director of Educational Programs at Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation; Mr. Gayan Sampath Somachandra, Director of News 1st; Mr. Sanjeewa Kumara Liyadipita, Senior Manager at Swarnavahini; Mr. Lal Hemantha Mawalage, Director and Consultant (News) and Consultant – Operations and Current Affairs at Siyatha TV; and Mr. Duminda Lakmal, Assistant Manager (News) at Siyatha TV.

Senior Lecturer Saman Rajapaksha, along with the staff of the Communication and Media Unit and undergraduates from various departments, attended the event, contributing to its success. The workshop series provided a valuable platform for students to engage with experienced media professionals and gain insights into the challenges and responsibilities of working in the media industry.