The Launching Ceremony of the Japanese Language Unit of the University of Kelaniya, was held on 27 May 2026 at the University premises. The event marked a significant milestone in the promotion of Japanese language education and cultural exchange at the University.

The ceremony was graced by several distinguished guests, including Mrs Miyuki Eguchi, acting Deputy Chief of Mission, Public Relations and Cultural Section & 1^st Secretary Cultural Affairs, Embassy of Japan in Sri Lanka; Chair Senior Professor Nilanthi de Silva, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya; Dr Sudath Senarath, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities; Dr Udara De Silva, Head of the Department of Modern Languages; Chair Senior Professor Patrick Rathnayake; Professor Dilrukshi Rathnayake, Professor in Japanese Language; Dr Asanka Pallewatta, and Madam Yuki Minamidani, Honorary Visiting Lecturer at the University of Kelaniya dispatched by Japan Foundation, along with  the Heads of Departments of the Faculty of Humanities, and academic staff members of Department of Modern Languages.

Professor Dilrukshi Rathnayake was appointed as the head of the Unit of Japanese Language.

Japanese language was first introduced to the Department of Modern Languages as a certificate course in 1977. In 1978, Japanese was introduced as a subject in the Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree programme, marking an important step in the development of Japanese studies at the University of Kelaniya. The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Degree in Japanese was introduced in 2014. In addition, Japanese Language Unit offers a Postgraduate Diploma in Japanese Language, which provides graduates with opportunities to further improve their knowledge and professional skills.

The establishment of the Unit of Japanese Language marks a significant milestone in strengthening Japanese language education at the University of Kelaniya and creating new opportunities for students to engage with Japanese language, culture, and society.