“Sanjanani 2023 - Communication and Public Relations Festival” organized for the 50^th anniversary celebration of the Department of Mass Communication, University of Kelaniya was held on the 3^rd of October 2023 at the auditorium of the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya.

The event was held to commemorate the 50^th anniversary of the Department of Mass Communication and to award Dr. Sarath Amunugama for his great contribution to the media industry.

Senior Professor Nilanthi De Silva, Vice Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya participated as the chief guest of the event, while Dr. Sarath Amunugama participated as the Guest of Honor.

Dr. Sarath Amunugama was awarded the “Harasara Award” presented by the department at the inaugural ceremony. This award is given for his great service in the field of communication. Regarding the 50^th anniversary, a special commemorative cover and stamp was issued. The scholarly publications Sannivedana and the 9^th and 10^th volumes of Madhya Vimarshī were launched, and Prof. Shelton Gunaratne Memorial Scholarships were presented to the students who obtained high marks studying for the honors degree. A tribute was also organized for the retired academic staff who have performed pioneering work for the department.

Present at the occasion were Deans of the Faculties, Heads of the Departments, academic and non-academic staff, and undergraduates of the Department of Mass Communication.