A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Sri Lanka Police and the University of Kelaniya on 13th February 2026 at the Senate Room of the University of Kelaniya, marking a significant step in strengthening academic–professional collaboration.

This occasion represents an important milestone in a partnership that reflects a shared commitment to professional excellence, academic advancement, and national development. The collaboration, which commenced in 2015 and was renewed in 2020, now continues for the third consecutive term, demonstrating the strong trust and mutual respect between the two institutions.

The three-year agreement further reinforces this shared vision. The partnership is coordinated by Senior Professor P. A. S. Edirisinghe, Carder Chair of the Department of Forensic Medicine, and Professor E. A. D. A. Edirisinghe of the Department of Sociology, both of whom have played a key role in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration between the University and the Police.

A major component of the partnership is the jointly conducted Higher Diploma in Crime Investigation, along with other collaborative programmes in forensic medicine, criminology, sociology, psychology, gender studies, and criminal justice. These initiatives reflect a practical commitment to developing competent, ethical, and knowledge-driven police professionals capable of addressing contemporary challenges. In addition, the partnership supports the strengthening of digital infrastructure and academic capacity at the National Police Academy, promoting a forward-looking vision for modern policing and professional development.

The MoU was formally signed by Attorney-at-Law Priyantha Weerasooriya, Inspector General of Police, on behalf of Sri Lanka Police, and Senior Professor Nilanthi De Silva, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya. Senior Professor M. N. Chandrathilake, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, and Professor M. M. Gunathilake, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, signed on behalf of the University. Senior Deputy Inspector General Sajeewa Madawatta signed on behalf of the National Police Academy.

The ceremony was attended by senior representatives from both institutions. Also representing Sri Lanka Police were DIG Manjula Mahagirilla, Executive Director of the National Police Academy, along with other senior officers. From the University of Kelaniya, attendees included the Professor Bandara Wanninayake, Dean of the Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies; Senior Professor Anuruddhi Edirisinghe; Professor Anusha Edirisinghe, and academic staff involved in lecturing at the National Police Academy.

The agreement focuses on joint initiatives aimed at enhancing research capacity, facilitating knowledge exchange, and promoting innovative solutions in policing and criminal justice. Overall, the renewal of this MoU symbolizes not only the continuation of a strong institutional partnership but also a renewed commitment to innovation, research excellence, and collaborative engagement in advancing policing standards in Sri Lanka.