The Department of Sport Science and Physical Education, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, successfully conducted the Inauguration Ceremony of the Higher Diploma in Physical Education and Sport Management – 2^nd batch on 08 February 2026 at the Auditorium of the Faculty of Social Sciences.

The event marked the formal commencement of the new academic intake and welcomed forty-six diploma candidates who enrolled in the programme for the 2026 academic year. The ceremony aimed to orient students to the academic structure of the programme while motivating them towards professional growth in the fields of Physical Education and Sport Management.

The occasion was graced by Dr Nilantha Ramanayake, Head of the Department of Sport Science and Physical Education, along with Professor Charika Wickramarathne, Dr Hashi Peiris, Senior Lecturer (Ms) Anoma Rathnayake, and Senior Lecturer (Ms) Deepika Wehigaldeniya, the Course Coordinator. Members of the academic staff and students were also present.

A special highlight of the programme was the Guest Lecture delivered by Mr Ishara Thilakarathne, an alumnus of the Sport and Recreation Management degree programme of the University of Kelaniya and currently serving as Brand Manager -Marketing at Hatton National Bank (HNB). Sharing his professional journey and industry experience in sports marketing, brand management, and event operations, he provided valuable insights and inspiration to the new students as they began their academic and career pathways.

The ceremony concluded with an administrative briefing for students, marking the successful launch of another academic year of the Higher Diploma programme. The Department looks forward to nurturing competent and industry-ready professionals who will contribute meaningfully to the development of sport and physical education in Sri Lanka.