Mrs. Vithanage Lilawathi Asilin Dharmaratne, a 97-year-old graduate, graduated with a Master of Arts Degree from the Postgraduate Institute of Pali and Buddhist Studies of the University of Kelaniya at its 143^rd General Convocation held on the 21^st of August 2024 at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH).

It was awarded to Mrs. Dharmaratne by the Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya, Chief Incumbent of the Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara, Aggamahapanditha Most Ven. Professor Kollupitiye Mahinda Sangharakkitha Maha Thera.

Born on the 30^th of November 1927, in Millawa, Horana, Mrs. Lilawathi displayed a passion for education from a young age. She attended Girls' College, Millawa, and in 1946, she successfully sat for the G. C. E. (O/L) examination in both English and Sinhala mediums. Her academic prowess led her to be appointed as an English medium teacher shortly after, and by 1955, she started her career at Ruggahawila Meewala Mixed School. However, her career took a different turn when she pursued her ambition to become a notary public. Mrs. Lilawathi was honoured in 1962 for passing the notary examination with distinction, becoming the only woman who passed the exam that year, securing first place.

Her achievement is not only a personal milestone but also a significant event in the history of higher education in Sri Lanka. It reflects the commitment of the University of Kelaniya to fostering lifelong learning and has raised the university's reputation as a leader in promoting education at all stages of life.

Senior Professor Nilanthi de Silva, the Vice-chancellor of the University of Kelaniya, Deans of the Faculties, Registrar, Librarian, Academic and Non-Academic Staff, graduands, and their families graced the event.