THRIMANA-26 was successfully organized by the Economics Association of the Department of Economics, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, on 13th March 2026, from 9.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m., creating a vibrant and intellectually enriching platform for undergraduates.

The occasion was graced by the Chief Guest, Senior Professor Shirantha Heenkenda, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences. The program was conducted under the guidance of Professor Gamini Weerasinghe, Head of the Department of Economics, with the support of the academic staff.

A major highlight of the event was WAGSARA 2026, a debating competition aimed at enhancing students’ debating, analytical, and communication skills. The competition featured 24 participants and was conducted in three rounds, following a preparatory workshop held on 18th February 2026 by Mr. Pahan Ruchiranga, who provided valuable insights into debating techniques and public speaking.

The Grand Final, held at the Sumangala Auditorium on 13th March 2026, concluded with Team Agora emerging as champions, while Team Siu Nana Paura secured the runners-up position. Team Agora was also awarded the Most Popular Team, and M. V. I. Salgado was recognized as the Best Debater.

An Economics Discussion Forum was also held under the theme: “What should be the top priority to rebuild Sri Lanka’s economy within the next five years?” The discussion explored four key areas:

Strengthening Local Industries & Production

Improving Employment & Skills Development

Boosting Tourism and Foreign Income

Controlling Inflation & Managing Government Debt

The panel discussion featured Professor Gamini Weerasinghe, Dr. Ajantha Kalyanarathne, Mrs. Shohani Badullahewage, and Mr. Tharindu Udayanga Kamburawala, who shared expert insights. Student participants K.M.H.G.S.A. Kekulandara, A.H.M. Tharushi Tharanga, G.M.S. Kariyawasam, and M.H. Vishakha Muthukumari also contributed valuable ideas, making the session highly engaging and informative.

Another key highlight was the release of Arthadaara’26 Volume II, the Department’s e-magazine, themed “The Resilience of the Sri Lankan Economy Amidst Geo-Political Events and Natural Disasters.” The 60-page publication features analytical articles, current economic data, and creative content such as poems and cartoons, reflecting both academic depth and student creativity.

The event also included an entertainment segment, where economics undergraduates showcased their musical talents. Special guest Ms. Amandi Darmarathne, an undergraduate from the University of Colombo Faculty of Law and a talented poet, enriched the session by sharing her perspectives on the performances.

Overall, THRIMANA-26 successfully blended academic excellence, intellectual discussion, and creative expression, providing a meaningful and memorable experience for all participants while fostering critical thinking and student engagement.

The Department of Economics organized a panel discussion on “The Crisis in the Middle East and the Sri Lankan Economy” on 10 March 2026 at the Sri Sumangala Auditorium. The panel featured the following distinguished speakers: Senior Prof. Shirantha Heenkenda, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences; Senior Prof. H.D. Karunarathna, Former Vice Chancellor of the University of Colombo; Prof. Gamini Weerasinghe, Head of the Department of Economics, USJ; Prof. Janaka Fernando, Department of Business Economics, USJ; and Dhananath Fernando, CEO of the Advocata Institute. The session was moderated by Mr. Tharindu Udayanga Kamburawala, Lecturer in the Department of Economics. The discussion explored the economic and geopolitical implications of the Middle East crisis and its potential impact on the Sri Lankan economy.

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It is a great milestone in university history that fostered experience and expertise, academic excellence, and innovation. It assembled students, academics, industry experts, and the general public together by offering a vibrant platform to gain knowledge, enhance creativity, and promote collaborative learning.

The Department of Economics proudly represented the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences through its dedicated exhibition space, where students and staff members showcased various educational publications, conducted workshops on money management, and held fun gaming sessions aimed at addressing real-world economic challenges. They helped to obtain significant attention from visitors by providing valuable insights about the academic programs and research opportunities of the Department and its active role in national economic discourse.

Japura Nexpo 2025 created an engaging environment for knowledge exchange, networking, and inspiration, highlighting the commitment of the university to bridge the gap between academia and society.

We at the Department of Economics extend our heartfelt gratitude to all students, staff members, organisers, and visitors who contributed to making this event a resounding triumph.

Thraimana ’25 was divided into three key phases, each designed to develop different skills among students:

Phase 1 – Magazine Launch The event began with the launch of the Economics Undergraduate Magazine (අර්ථධාරා), featuring articles, research, and creative writing from students, faculty, and experts. This phase promoted academic writing and critical thinking while encouraging students to explore economic and social issues through well-researched content.

Phase 2 – Economics Discussion The second phase involved an economics discussion, where prominent lecturers and students analyzed current economic trends and policies. This platform sharpened their ability to think critically, debate important issues, and propose innovative solutions to economic challenges.

Phase 3 – Concert The final phase was an undergraduate concert that celebrated talent and creativity through music, dance, and drama. It provided a space for students to express themselves artistically while fostering teamwork and collaboration.

A lecture titled “The Objectives and Functions of the CBSL, Monetary Policy in Sri Lanka, and Its Impact on the Sri Lankan Economy” was delivered by Dr. Antonette Fernando from the CBSL. Additionally, an information session on pyramid schemes was conducted by the Financial Consumer Relations Department of the CBSL.

Following the sessions, the students visited the Economic History Museum of the Central Bank.

The magazine was launched on April 2, 2025, and is intended to continue as a long-term project.

Arthadhaara aims to engage a diverse audience, including: -Undergraduate and postgraduate students -Faculty members and researchers -Aspiring economists and policymakers -The general public and economic enthusiasts

The magazine featured a variety of content such as analytical articles, poetry, short stories, and cartoons.

The quiz competition was conducted in three rounds as follows:

Round 1: Conducted online Approximately 50 students participated The top 20 students were selected for the next round

Round 2: Conducted online The top 10 students were selected for the final round

Round 3 (Final Round): Conducted in person at the Department of Economics premises

Final Results: Following a highly competitive final round, the top achievers were: 1st Place: Arani Methma 2nd Place: Anuththara Umayangani & Sajuricka Vaz

ECONOBRAINS ’25 successfully provided a platform for students to showcase their knowledge and analytical skills in economics. The competition was a valuable learning experience, promoting intellectual engagement and academic excellence among undergraduates.