The Inauguration Ceremony of the fourth batch of the MSc and Master’s Degree Programs in Biochemistry and Biotechnology, organized by the Department of Chemistry, University of Kelaniya, was held on the 26th of October 2024, at ITC Ratnadipa, Colombo.

The event was graced by the Chief Guest, Senior Prof. Kapila Seneviratne, Chairman of the University Grants Commission, Sri Lanka, while the other esteemed guests included Senior Prof. Sudath Kalingamudali, Dean of the Faculty of Science and the Acting Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies; Prof. Jeewantha Premaratne, Head of the Department of Chemistry; and Prof. Nimanthi Jayathilaka, Program Coordinator. Their inspiring words and insights set an encouraging tone for the students as they embark on this academic journey.

Representatives from the sponsors of the event and invited guests from tech industries were also in attendance, furthering the collaborative spirit of the event. Notable representatives from each organization, including Mr. Wasaba Jayasekara, Managing Director of Hayleys Aventura; Mr. Chinthaka Jayathilaka, Head of Strategy and Finance, S&T Interiors Pvt Ltd (Hayleys Group Company); Mr. Krishantha Pathirana, Head of Human Resources Haycarb PLC; Ms. Lankani Hettigoda, Director Research and Development, Hettigoda Industries Pvt Ltd; Dr. Isuru Dissanayake, E-Channeling PLC; and Ms. Chathini Uduwana, Vice President People & Country Head at Typefi Systems, joined to show their support and commitment to fostering advancements in biochemistry and biotechnology through this program.

Additionally, the event also witnessed the participation of the esteemed academic members, including Prof. Priyani Paranagama, Prof. Tissa Amarakoon, Prof. Renka Attanayake, Dr. Chamila Kadigamuwa, Dr. Dulith Abeykoon, Dr. Jayangika Dahanayake,  Dr. Thelma Abeysinghe, and Dr. Nihal Attygalle, along with the students of the Master’s programs.