The V-Force “Let’s Move Up” university-based programme, organized by the Sirasa V-Force team in collaboration with Y FM, MTV Channel (Pvt) Ltd., and the Communication and Media Unit of the University of Kelaniya, was successfully held on June 23, 2025, at the Sri Dharmaloka Hall of the University of Kelaniya.

The event was conducted under the supervision of Senior Lecturer Mr. Saman Rajapaksha, Director of the Communication and Media Unit.

Held under the patronage of Senior Professor Nilanthi de Silva, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya, the programme aimed to empower youth by fostering leadership, creativity, and humanity. Notably, this marks the first time the V-Force team has conducted such a programme at a state university in Sri Lanka.

Dr. Ranil Sugathadasa, CEO and Board Coach, participated as the guest speaker, inspiring students with his insights and experience.

The event featured a panel discussion comprising Dr. Manoj Jinadasa, Head of the Department of Mass Communication, University of Kelaniya; Ms. Naveksha Gunasekare, Moderator; Mr. Dhanika Perera, CEO Bhasha and Founder of Helakuru; Ms. Rasini Bandara, International Psychologist; and Mr. Roshan Watawala, Director News 1st.

A key highlight of the event was the launch of the song Kiyannena Numba Sihinayak, written by Gavesh Kalaru and sung by Sandali Sathsarani, both first-year undergraduates of the Department of Mass Communication. The  music of the song was composed by Mr. Ruvinda Rathnayake. Notably, MEntertainments granted official consent for the song’s publication under their label.

Representing the V-Force team were Mr. Chevaan Daniel, Group Director, Capital Maharaja Group; Mr. Wasantha Pradeep Masinhage, Director, Depanama Broadcasting Station; Mr. Gihan Udyoga, National Coordinator, Gammadda V-Force; and the members of the V-Force team.

The event was also graced by several distinguished members of the university community, including Professor Bandara Wanninayake, Dean of the Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies; Professor Semasinghe Wanninayake, Acting Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences; Mr. K. K. K. Dharmathilaka, Registrar of the University of Kelaniya; Senior Lecturer Ms. Dulanga Gunaratne, Department of Fine Arts; Visiting Lecturer Ms. Pushpika Dasanayake; academic staff members from the Department of Mass Communication and other departments; and students of the University of Kelaniya.

The “Let’s Move Up” initiative continues to inspire the youth of Sri Lanka, and its successful implementation at the University of Kelaniya marks a significant milestone in youth engagement and leadership development.