The Department of Geography, University of Kelaniya, inaugurated three professional academic programmes: the Diploma in Disaster Management (10^th Batch), Higher Diploma in Disaster Management (1^st Batch), and Diploma in Geographical Information System (7th Batch) on 07 February 2026, at the at the Auditorium of the Faculty of Social Sciences, marking a significant milestone in the Department’s contribution to applied education and national capacity building.

The event brought together academics, professionals, and newly enrolled students, highlighting the growing demand for qualified personnel in disaster risk management and geospatial technologies. Addressing the gathering, Professor Nishan Sakalasooriya, Head of the Department of Geography, emphasized the Department’s role in delivering industry-relevant programmes that respond to emerging environmental and development challenges.

Professor M. M. Gunathilake, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, noted the importance of multidisciplinary academic programmes in supporting evidence-based planning and sustainable development initiatives at both national and regional levels.

The keynote address was delivered by Dr Saseeka Wijesekara (PhD. in Spatial Sciences), Senior Lecturer, Department of Geography, University of Kelaniya, who highlighted the increasing relevance of spatial sciences and geospatial technologies in disaster management, planning, and policy formulation. The Chief Guest, Major General Sampath Kotuwegoda ndc IG (Retd.), Director General of the Disaster Management Centre (DMC), Sri Lanka, stressed the need for strong collaboration between academic institutions and national agencies to enhance disaster preparedness, early warning systems, and risk reduction strategies in Sri Lanka.

Programme coordinators Mr Indunil Ranwella (Diploma and Higher Diploma in Disaster Management) and Ms Apsara Danasekara (Diploma in Geographical Information System) briefed students on the academic scope of the programmes and encouraged them to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges.

The ceremony was attended by Mr J. M. A. R. Jayarathna, Deputy Director (Early Warning) and Director – HR of the Disaster Management Centre, along with academic staff of the University. Approximately 80 diploma students participated in the event. The inauguration reaffirmed the University of Kelaniya’s commitment to producing skilled professionals equipped to address disaster-related challenges and advance the application of geospatial technologies in Sri Lanka.