Junior Academic Mentors of FHSS Honored with Certificates

A certificate awarding ceremony was held on 16th July 2025 at the Bandaranayake Hall of the university to honor participants of the Out Bound Training organized and conducted by the Sri Lanka police at their training college in Kalutara. The training primarily focused on Leadership and Motivation. The event marked the successful completion of an intensive, skill-building program designed specifically for the junior academic mentors of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences. The workshop provided participants with practical training in team building, effective communication, leadership dynamics and motivational strategies. For two days, attendees engaged in structured outdoor activities, interactive sessions and scenario-based exercises tailored to develop their confidence, resilience and leadership potential. In his remarks, the Dean of the faculty, Snr. Prof. Shirantha Heenkenda emphasized the importance of such collaborations in empowering young leaders within the academic community. ‘Leadership is not only about authority, but also about service, integrity and the ability to inspire others. We are proud to support initiatives that shape the leaders of tomorrow’ he said. Dr. Sampath Pushpakumara, Head, Department of English Language Teaching and a deputy Proctor of the faculty expressed his appreciation noting that this experience has significantly contributed to the personal and professional growth of the junior mentors. ‘The skills learned here will not only enhance their academic mentoring but also prepare them for future leadership roles within the university and beyond’ he added. The event was also graced by the Rev. Dr. Nelliwala Mettananda Thero, a deputy proctor of the faculty and Dr. Nelum Kanthilatha, coordinator of the Academic Mentoring program of the Student Support Center and a deputy proctor of the faculty. Ms. Samadhi Karunarathna, Ms. Vigesha Ravihari, Mr. Nethmal Sampath and Mr. Chamika Balasuriya, assistant lecturers of the faculty and Ms. Samantha Geeganage, Deputy Registrar of the faculty also took part in the event.