Ms Sathsarani Rathnayaka and Ms Sandunika Hemasinghe, two third-year undergraduates from the Japanese Unit, University of Kelaniya, secured first and second places respectively at the National Japanese Speech Contest organized by the Japanese Graduates’ Alumni Association of Sri Lanka (JAGAAS). The contest was held on 1st November 2025 at the [Sasakawa Hall, Colombo].

Competing against talented contestants representing leading universities across Sri Lanka that offer Japanese language programs, the students demonstrated exceptional linguistic proficiency and confidence.

Following this national victory, on 7th November 2025, Ms Sathsarani Rathnayaka had the honor of representing Sri Lanka at the International Japanese Speech Contest organized by the South Asian Federation of Japanese Universities Alumni Association (SAFJUAA). Competing among representatives from South Asian universities, she was once again able to secure first place, thereby bringing significant recognition to the University of Kelaniya at the regional level.

To commemorate this outstanding achievement, JAGAAS organized an award ceremony on 12th February 2026 at the Embassy of Japan in Sri Lanka. The certificates were graciously presented to the winners by the Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka, His Excellency Akio Isomata. The ceremony provided a valuable opportunity for the awardees to celebrate their success in a distinguished diplomatic setting and to express their sincere gratitude to their lecturers and mentors who continuously guided and supported them throughout their journey.