The University of Kelaniya marked a significant milestone on the 17^th of January 2025 with the opening of the Model Early Childhood Development and Daycare Center (MECDC) on its premises, near the Faculty of Science. The center was officially inaugurated by Senior Professor Nilanthi De Silva, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya, during a ceremony attended by key university officials and stakeholders.

Model Early Childhood Development and Daycare Center (MECDC) is managed by the Welfare Association of the Kelaniya University Teachers’ Association (KUTA). The MECDC aims to provide high-quality preschool and daycare services exclusively for the children of university staff, ensuring a supportive and nurturing environment that fosters early childhood development.

Addressing the gathering, Senior Professor Nilanthi De Silva emphasized the university’s commitment to fostering a balanced work-life environment for its staff members, highlighting the crucial role of the MECDC that will play in achieving this goal

This initiative represents a significant step forward in promoting the well-being and productivity of the university’s staff while setting a benchmark for institutional childcare services in Sri Lanka.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by prominent figures including Prof. Bandara Wanninayake, Dean of the Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies; Dr. Sudath  Senerath, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities; Prof. Jeewantha Premaratne; President of the Kelaniya University Teachers’ Association (KUTA);  Prof. Ruwani Fernando, the President of the Welfare Association of the KUTA; Mr. Susantha De Silva and Mr. Udaya Senevirathne, members of the University Council; Mr. K. K. K.  Dharmathilaka, Registrar of the University; and executive members of KUTA.