Taekwondo E.M.R.P. Bandara of Wayamba University of Sri Lanka secured a Gold Volume 1 Issue 03 July to September 2017 ISSN - 2279-218X Medal at the 2017 Inter University Games held at University of Ruhuna from 9th to 10th September becoming as the Taekwondo Champion (Sparring 80-87 kg). Web : www.wyb.ac.lk Email: [email protected]

Wayamba University Baseball Team 2017 Wayamba University of Sri Lanka Newsletter Feature articles Wayamba team in action at the 2017 Inter Gratitude of Wayamba “Taekwondo team 2017” of the University Baseball Tournament University of Sri Lanka to Wayamba University of Sri Lanka. Towards Realization of an Internet of ings Environment. E M R P Bandara for his What’s performance Dr. VGTN Vidanagama B.Sc. (Hons) Computer Science - Peradeniya, M.Sc., Announcements Inside D.Sc. in Global Information & Telecommunication Studies - Waseda University, Japan Inauguration of Intake – III of the Certificate in Personal Financial Management (CPFM) Senior Lecturer, Feature articles Head, e Department of Accountancy is pleased to Taxation, Risk Management, Time Value of Money Page 01 announce the inauguration of Intake – III of the Department of Computing & Information Systems, and Investment & Retirement Planning which are Faculty of Applied Sciences, Certificate in Personal Financial Management much relevant to the Insurance industry. As per the News Wayamba University of Sri Lanka. (CPFM) for Wealth Planners and Wealth Planners' vision statement of the department, “An Assured Page 02 - Page 12 Managers of AIA Insurance Lanka PLC, on future for all Sri Lankans and a prosperous society Multiple innovative wireless devices such as smartphones/tablets and th Staff achievements 07 October 2017 at AIA Tower, Colombo 07. e through learning”, the objective of this Certificate Page 13 other wearable short-range wireless devices are embedded in every Department of Accountancy is proud as the initiator Course is to create qualified wealth planners and imaginable place from shoes to cars to buildings, and have become an of Certificate in Personal Financial Management wealth planners' Managers, who provide advice on Appointments & Promotions integral part of everyday life at both personal and commercial levels. course and it has been designed to provide solutions in insurance to their clients found all over Page 14 - Page 17 ese devices may be sensors to monitor various conditions to improve or provide insight into the functionality of the embedded opportunities for exploring new knowledge in the the country. Visits & Travel areas of Personal Financial Management, Personal system, be it human or machine. Some other devices may also provide Page 17 - Page 18 easy access to functions in a range of equipment from air conditioners Concerts and Cultural Events to door locks. An ever increasing number of these devices can Page 18 communicate with each other without the intervention of humans. Editorial Board Please send us your news to be published: is machine-to-machine (M2M) communication between these Advisor - Prof. E M P Ekanayake, Vice-Chancellor Student Activities devices, coupled with a connection to the Internet, enables a Chief - Coordinator – Prof. A Nugawela Page 19 multitude of new services such as e-Health, connected consumers, city Vice-Chancellor’s Office, automation, smart transportation and smart grid. ese create the Coordinators - Sports building blocks of the Internet of ings (IoT) [1][2]. Wayamba University of Sri Lanka Page 19 Dr (Mrs) B L W K Balasooriya Kuliyapitiya, e telecom carriers in the telecommunications industry also face Mrs. H R K Nagahamulla Announcements economic issues as the revenue generated by traditional services such Dr (Ms) O D A N Perera Sri Lanka Page 20 as voice is declining. e M2M connections are expected to exceed 2 Mrs. K A M S Kodisinghe Tel. No. 0372282758 billion by 2018, experiencing a 43% annual growth rate [3]. As an Mr. R J Wellassa Fax. No. 0372281392 innovative future direction, M2M is identified as a promising Language Editor - Mr. M K S M Samaranayake Email:- [email protected] Graphic & Layout Designer - Professor E M P Ekanayake assumed duties as the Mr. L R B Weerasekara 5 Vice-Chancellor of the Wayamba University of Printing and Circulation - Wayamba University of Sri Lanka Sri Lanka (WUSL) on 25th May 2017. Mrs. K B V B R Gunathilake Newsletter Page 01 20 A quarterly update of significant events at theWayamba University of Sri Lanka The Newsletter of the 2017 Wayamba University of Sri Lanka News News revenue-generating service [4]. Telecom carriers may March 2014. need to establish new networks to accommodate the Ÿ Qian Zhu; Ruicong Wang; Qi Chen; Yan Liu; influx of user devices and their interactions while Weijun Qin, "IOT Gateway: Bridging Wireless identifying new business opportunities. However, the Sensor Networks into Internet of ings," majority of M2M devices may not have the capability to Embedded and Ubiquitous Computing (EUC), directly connect to the Internet due to their limitations 2010 IEEE/IFIP 8th International Conference in battery capacity, processing power, wireless radio on, pp.347,352, 11-13 Dec. 2010. range and standardization issues. Ÿ OneM2M Technical Report, Architecture To counteract the lack of standards in communication Analysis - Part 1: Analysis of architectures protocols and sensing technologies in M2M devices [5] proposed for consideration by oneM2M, 2013- Jul-28. [6], a cooperative effort to create a global standard for the Ÿ M2M service platform named “OneM2M” [7] has been V. G. T. N. Vidanagama, D. Arai and T. Ogishi, Fig. 2. Typical usage and proposed scheme to share "Service Environment for Smart Wireless initiated by the European Telecommunication access point to connect to the Internet in a service area Standards Institute (ETSI) together with a multitude of Devices: An M2M Gateway Selection Scheme," other worldwide standards organizations. e ETSI in IEEE Access, vol. 3, pp. 666-677, 2015. M2M architecture (Fig.1) consists of two distinctive A simple solution [8] (Fig.2) where users carry low-cost domains. is research focuses on the M2M device and M2M devices that do not require any user configuration the gateway domain that consists of the M2M devices to receive a service can be used to initiate an IoT and M2M gateways. Here, some of the M2M devices environment. e service provider implements a may be able to connect directly to a wide area network method to communicate with the user's M2M device by Industry visit from VirtusaPolaris (WAN) to gain access to the Internet, while some deploying M2M gateways in the service area and restricted simple M2M devices require an M2M gateway enabling the service. is environment can be extended to facilitate this interconnection. to test and evaluate the M2M service architecture in a A group of IT experts from VirtusaPolaris met the multitude of service scenarios such as disaster students of the Department of Computing & response/recovery, e-healthcare, child /pet monitoring Information Systems of the Faculty of Applied Sciences and smart home/city concepts. As further extensions, for a discussion on “IT Industries’ Expectations from the drones can be used in this environment as a means of assisting in disaster response and recovery efforts. IT Graduates” on the 10th of August. Autonomy of such drones needs to be established in IT experts from Virtusa Polaris addressing the students order to reduce the burden on human intervention. Investigation of these hot topics in the IoT area will result in valuable research output which elevates and benefits the society at large.

REFERENCES Ÿ Jayavardhana G., Rajkumar B., Slaven M., Palaniswami M., “Internet of ings (IoT): A vision, architectural elements, and future directions”, Future Generation Computer Fig. 1. Simplified ETSI M2M high level architecture Systems, Vol. 29-7, pp. 1645-1660, Sep. 2013. diagram Ÿ Hakima Chaouchi, e Internet of ings: Connecting Objects, ISBN: 1118600010, e realization of IoT is based on the interconnection of 9781118600016, John Wiley & Sons, 2013. M2M devices that provide services such as online-to- Ÿ White paper, Cisco Visual Networking Index: offline (O2O) as an entire system. Currently, O2O Global Mobile Data Traffic Forecast Update, services that are provided through devices such as users' 2013–2018, Feb 5, 2014. smartphones require the users to install applications on Ÿ Wu, G., Talwar, S., Johnsson, K., Himayat, N., the smartphones to receive the services. is is a & Johnson, K. D. “M2M: From mobile to significant disadvantage for service providers, as embedded internet”. IEEE Comm. Mag, 49(4), potential users may not possess smartphones, or may be 36-43,'11. unwilling to install applications even if they are in Ÿ Datta, S.K.; Bonnet, C.; Nikaein, N., "An IoT possession. gateway centric architecture to provide novel M2M services," Internet of ings (WF-IoT), of the Department of Computing & Information 2014 IEEE World Forum on, pp.514, 519, 6-8 Systems

02 The Newsletter of the Wayamba University of Sri Lanka 2017 News

Ÿ March 2014. Industrial Training Workshops for Ÿ Qian Zhu; Ruicong Wang; Qi Chen; Yan Liu; Weijun Qin, "IOT Gateway: Bridging Wireless Level 4 Students Sensor Networks into Internet of ings," Embedded and Ubiquitous Computing (EUC), 2010 IEEE/IFIP 8th International Conference e Industrial Training Coordinator of the Department on, pp.347,352, 11-13 Dec. 2010. of Computing & Information Systems of the Faculty of Ÿ OneM2M Technical Report, Architecture Applied Sciences organized the following Guest Lectures Analysis - Part 1: Analysis of architectures for the Level 4 Students following the Industrial Training proposed for consideration by oneM2M, 2013- Programme. Jul-28. Ÿ Ÿ Vidanagama, V. G. T. N., Arai D. and Ogishi, Bringing out the professional in you: An insight to T. "Service Environment for Smart Wireless survive in a work environment Devices: An M2M Gateway Selection Scheme," e guest lecture on the above was held on the 31st in IEEE Access, vol. 3, pp. 666-677, 2015. July at the Interactive Learning Center, Faculty of Applied Sciences. Mr. B.P.A. Jayaweera, Senior Lecturer, Department of Livestock & Avian Sciences / Director – Staff Development Center, Wayamba Industry visit from VirtusaPolaris University of Sri Lanka was the resource person. Ÿ All of us have a role to play A group of IT experts from VirtusaPolaris met the Mr Randeewa Malalasooriya, Chief Executive students of the Department of Computing & Officer, Chemanex PLC (Member of CIC Information Systems of the Faculty of Applied Sciences Holdings), delivered the above guest lecture on the for a discussion on “IT Industries’ Expectations from the 27 of September at the Faculty Auditorium. IT Graduates” on the 10th of August. Monthly Research Forum of the Department of Engineering Technology

e monthly research forum of the Department of Engineering Technology of the Faculty of Applied Sciences was held at the seminar room of the department. is forum provides a platform for academic and academic-support staff of the department to discuss their research findings and proposals. Bhoomi- Tech Pvt. Ltd. sponsored to furnish the seminar room encouraging research activities of the department.

IT experts from Virtusa Polaris addressing the students of the Department of Computing & Information Research forum of the Department of Engineering Systems Technology of the Faculty of Applied Sciences in progress

03 The Newsletter of the The Newsletter of the 2017 Wayamba University of Sri Lanka Wayamba University of Sri Lanka 2017 News News

Workshop on Microcontroller conducted with the support of the Dean, Assistant Awareness Programme on "Upadhidhari ASBIRES 2017 Programming Registrar, Mr. D.M. Jayasena, and Dr. (Mrs) W.G.E.J. Viyavasaya Udanaya" - 2017 e 9 Symposium on Applied Science, Business and Wattegama of the Faculty. Industrial Research – 2017 (ASBIRES 2017) organized A workshop on microcontroller programming was National Entrepreneurship Development Authority by the Department of Industrial Management, Faculty conducted by the Department of Engineering (NEDA) in collaboration with the Career Guidance of Applied Science was held on 03rd of August. Technology for the Engineering Technology students on Outbound Training (OBT) for Level – 1 Unit of the University organized the above programme e 9 Symposium on Applied Science, Business and the 18 of September. e students were given Students for the undergraduates with the objective of developing opportunities to experiment with various types of On 8 & 9 of August an Outbound Training their entrepreneurial skills. sensors and also use them in simple projects to facilitate Programme was conducted for 61 Level – I students of learning. e aim of the workshop was to provide the Faculty of Applied Sciences at “Othera” Camp site, necessary tools for students to carry out projects. Sandalankawa in collaboration with the Career Guidance Unit of the University. e main objective of the programme was to develop soft skills such as leadership, communication, decision making and to promote cooperation among the students.

Students at the Workshop on Microcontroller Programming

Awareness Programmes e Faculty of Applied Sciences in collaboration with the University Medical Centre conducted a program on “How to be a Healthy Person; An awareness on Personal Hygiene and Sexually Transmitted Diseases" in August Level – I students of the Faculty of Applied Sciences targeting Level One - Applied Sciences stream actively participating in the Outbound Training undergraduates. e resource persons were Mr. P.B. programme Herath - Health Educator and Mr. S.P.L. Wickramasinghe, Public Health Inspector, North e students actively engaged in different activities Western Province. Mr. D.M. Jayasena and Dr. (Mrs.) conducted to achieve the expected outcomes of the Upadhidhari Viyavasaya Udanaya programme being W.G.E.J. Wattegama of the Faculty organized the programme. Students’ feedback on the programme was conducted on 14 September at the University programme. encouraging and a request was made for more similar Auditorium programs during their university life. "Anti-narcotic among university students" was the title e programme was held at the main auditorium of the of another awareness program initiated by the Faculty of Major Gamini Jayasuriya, Career Advisor of the University on 14th September from 9.30 a.m. to 12.30 Applied Sciences in support of the activities initiated by University proudly organized the event and also served as p.m. Mr. Paul de Souza, an international entrepreneur the University Medical Centre. is awareness the resource person. Mr. D.M. Jayasena, Faculty from Hong Kong and Dr. D. Uba Devi from the Centre programme was conducted in September and was open Coordinator, Career Guidance together with other for Women Studies of Sri Padmawathi Mahlli for all the undergraduates of the Faculty of Applied academic staff members, Dr Upaneth Liyanarachchi, Mr Visvavidvalayam (Women's University, Tirupati, India) Sciences and the Faculty of Business Studies and Hasith Bandara, Mrs K.T.G. Madushanka and Mrs. participated as resource persons. Industrial Research – 2017 (ASBIRES 2017) in progress Finance. e resource person was Dr. Suresh M.D.I. Erandika participated in this programme. Vice-Chancellor of the University, Director – Career Rajapaksha, Psychological Counsellor - Anti-Narcotic Guidance Unit, Career Advisor of the University and Unit, North Western Province. is programme was Coordinators of the Faculties were also present at the programme.

04 05 The Newsletter of the The Newsletter of the 2017 Wayamba University of Sri Lanka Wayamba University of Sri Lanka 2017 News News

Workshop on Microcontroller conducted with the support of the Dean, Assistant Awareness Programme on "Upadhidhari programme. Programming Registrar, Mr. D.M. Jayasena, and Dr. (Mrs) W.G.E.J. Viyavasaya Udanaya" - 2017 Wattegama of the Faculty. ASBIRES 2017 A workshop on microcontroller programming was National Entrepreneurship Development Authority e 9 Symposium on Applied Science, Business and conducted by the Department of Engineering (NEDA) in collaboration with the Career Guidance Industrial Research – 2017 (ASBIRES 2017) organized Technology for the Engineering Technology students on Outbound Training (OBT) for Level – 1 Unit of the University organized the above programme by the Department of Industrial Management, Faculty the 18 of September. e students were given Students for the undergraduates with the objective of developing of Applied Science was held on 03rd of August. opportunities to experiment with various types of On 8 & 9 of August an Outbound Training their entrepreneurial skills. sensors and also use them in simple projects to facilitate Programme was conducted for 61 Level – I students of learning. e aim of the workshop was to provide the Faculty of Applied Sciences at “Othera” Camp site, necessary tools for students to carry out projects. Sandalankawa in collaboration with the Career Guidance Unit of the University. e main objective of the programme was to develop soft skills such as leadership, communication, decision making and to promote cooperation among the students.

Students at the Workshop on Microcontroller Programming

Awareness Programmes e Faculty of Applied Sciences in collaboration with the University Medical Centre conducted a program on “How to be a Healthy Person; An awareness on Personal Hygiene and Sexually Transmitted Diseases" in August Level – I students of the Faculty of Applied Sciences targeting Level One - Applied Sciences stream actively participating in the Outbound Training undergraduates. e resource persons were Mr. P.B. programme Herath - Health Educator and Mr. S.P.L. Wickramasinghe, Public Health Inspector, North e students actively engaged in different activities Western Province. Mr. D.M. Jayasena and Dr. (Mrs.) conducted to achieve the expected outcomes of the Upadhidhari Viyavasaya Udanaya programme being W.G.E.J. Wattegama of the Faculty organized the programme. Students’ feedback on the programme was conducted on 14 September at the University programme. encouraging and a request was made for more similar Auditorium programs during their university life. "Anti-narcotic among university students" was the title e programme was held at the main auditorium of the of another awareness program initiated by the Faculty of Major Gamini Jayasuriya, Career Advisor of the University on 14th September from 9.30 a.m. to 12.30 Applied Sciences in support of the activities initiated by University proudly organized the event and also served as p.m. Mr. Paul de Souza, an international entrepreneur the University Medical Centre. is awareness the resource person. Mr. D.M. Jayasena, Faculty from Hong Kong and Dr. D. Uba Devi from the Centre programme was conducted in September and was open Coordinator, Career Guidance together with other for Women Studies of Sri Padmawathi Mahlli for all the undergraduates of the Faculty of Applied academic staff members, Dr Upaneth Liyanarachchi, Mr Visvavidvalayam (Women's University, Tirupati, India) Sciences and the Faculty of Business Studies and Hasith Bandara, Mrs K.T.G. Madushanka and Mrs. participated as resource persons. Finance. e resource person was Dr. Suresh M.D.I. Erandika participated in this programme. e 9 Symposium on Applied Science, Business and Rajapaksha, Psychological Counsellor - Anti-Narcotic Vice-Chancellor of the University, Director – Career Industrial Research – 2017 (ASBIRES 2017) in progress Unit, North Western Province. is programme was Guidance Unit, Career Advisor of the University and Coordinators of the Faculties were also present at the

04 05 The Newsletter of the The Newsletter of the 2017 Wayamba University of Sri Lanka Wayamba University of Sri Lanka 2017 News News

Dr. (Mrs.) JMJW Jayasinghe invited as Honoring the Champions of Ceylon Tea Chief Guest A further noteworthy activity of AlTea 2017 was the honouring of ten veteran tea planters of the country. Dr. (Mrs.) JMJW Jayasinghe attended the event During the past 150 years the contribution from the tea SHECODERess v 1.0 as the Chief Guest and delivered industry to the economy of the country has been an inspiring speech on Women Empowerment. enormous. More importantly, during this period the SHECODERess v 1.0 is the first ever inter university industry has laid a strong foundation to sustain the girls' hackathon in Sri Lanka. It was held successfully on contribution of the industry during the future years as the 22nd of July at the Uva Wellassa University. About well. Hence, the tea industry in the country is managed 200 female undergraduates participated in the event sustainably despite of numerous threats and challenges it representing eight universities including Wayamba Conference Chair, Dr. D.C. Abeysinghe welcoming has to face. University of Sri Lanka. Dr. Jayasinghe is the current foreign participants to AlTea 2017 Editor and an Executive Committee member of the Dr.(Mrs) JMJW Jayasinghe delivering her speech at IEEE Women in Engineering Sri Lanka section. Among many stakeholders who had truly contributed to SHECODERess v 1.0 drive the Sri Lankan tea industry forward, the practical planter had played a pivotal role. He is a physically and mentally strong personality with a 24 x 365 responsibility in hand and armed with a good knowledge Wayamba commemorates 150 years of Technology, Kenya, Professor Yue-Rong Liang, Zhejiang on numerous disciplines including plantation Tea in Sri Lanka - International University Tea Research Institute, China, Professor agriculture & processing, human resource & financial Conference on Advances in Tea Keiko Saito, Tea Science Center, University of management and accounting. e experienced elite (AITea 2017) Shizuoka, Japan, Professor Yoo Yang-Seok, Kookmin planters eventually end up managing at corporate level University, Seoul, South Korea and Dr. I.S.B. Abeysinghe, developing policies and strategies for continuous Faculty of Agriculture and Plantation Management Director, Tea Research Institute of Sri Lanka . improvement in the performance of plantations under organized the “International Conference on Advances in Hon. Minister for Science, Technology and Research challenging business environments. Tea 2017” (AITea 2017) partnering with the Ministry Mr. Susil Premajayantha, Hon. Minster of Science, lighting the traditional oil lamp during the opening of Science, Technology and Research, Sri Lanka Tea Technology and Research, graced the event as the Chief ceremony of AlTea 2017 e Faculty of Agriculture and Plantation Management Board, Tea Research Institute of Sri Lanka and the Guest. Distinguished invitees included the Vice- of the Wayamba University of Sri Lanka was of the view Colombo Tea Traders Association. e two day Chancellor, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, the that the veteran and eminent tea planters who had conference was held at the BMICH, Colombo from 12 - Chairman, Sri Lanka Tea Board and the Chairman, tirelessly contributed to the sustainability of the industry 13 August. Over 100 international delegates from 10 Colombo Tea Traders Association. e successful should be thought of when commemorating 150 years of different countries and a number of local participants completion of AITea 2017 would not have been possible Tea in the country, which is indeed a significant representing universities, research institutes, without the support and funding from partners, milestone. government departments and plantation management Ministry of Science, Technology and Research, Ministry companies attended the event. AITea 2017 brought of Plantation Industries, Sri Lanka Tea Board, Tea We believe that this initiative would enable us to show together a rich diversity of authors and speakers Research Institute of Sri Lanka and Colombo Tea the gratitude of the industry towards these champions representing the global tea industry to share their ideas Traders Association. Organizing committee also whilst provoking the current plantation executives to on new developments in the global tea industry. extended their gratitude to the other sponsors, follow the footsteps of these exemplarily personalities Talawakelle Plantations PLC, Elpitiya Plantations PLC, Vice-Chancellor Prof. E.M.P. Ekanayake greeting a who were honest, committed, dedicated and self- e Keynote address of the conference was delivered by Vinds Tea International (Pvt.) Ltd., Kahawatta foreign delegate attending AlTea 2017 motivated during their period to contribute to the Prof. Kwan Jeong Song of Jeju National University, Plantations PLC, Udapussellawa Plantations PLC and betterment and sustainability of the industry. South Korea. Country perspectives of major tea growing CIC for their assistance. countries were presented by distinguished speakers; Dr. e Wayamba University of Sri Lanka is grateful to the N. Muraleedharan, former Director, Tocklai Tea AlTea 2017 was successfully conducted as a result of Planters Association of Ceylon for their cooperation in Research Institute, India, Professor Edward George excellent planning and untiring efforts of the organizing identifying the veteran planters who were honoured as Mamati, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and committee Chaired by Dr. D.C. Abeysinghe, Dean Champions of Ceylon Tea, at AlTea 2017. Faculty of Agriculture Plantation Management.

06 07 The Newsletter of the The Newsletter of the 2017 Wayamba University of Sri Lanka Wayamba University of Sri Lanka 2017 News News

Dr. (Mrs.) JMJW Jayasinghe invited as Honoring the Champions of Ceylon Tea Chief Guest A further noteworthy activity of AlTea 2017 was the honouring of ten veteran tea planters of the country. Dr. (Mrs.) JMJW Jayasinghe attended the event During the past 150 years the contribution from the tea SHECODERess v 1.0 as the Chief Guest and delivered industry to the economy of the country has been an inspiring speech on Women Empowerment. enormous. More importantly, during this period the SHECODERess v 1.0 is the first ever inter university industry has laid a strong foundation to sustain the girls' hackathon in Sri Lanka. It was held successfully on contribution of the industry during the future years as the 22nd of July at the Uva Wellassa University. About well. Hence, the tea industry in the country is managed 200 female undergraduates participated in the event sustainably despite of numerous threats and challenges it representing eight universities including Wayamba Conference Chair, Dr. D.C. Abeysinghe welcoming has to face. University of Sri Lanka. Dr. Jayasinghe is the current foreign participants to AlTea 2017 Editor and an Executive Committee member of the Dr.(Mrs) JMJW Jayasinghe delivering her speech at IEEE Women in Engineering Sri Lanka section. Among many stakeholders who had truly contributed to SHECODERess v 1.0 drive the Sri Lankan tea industry forward, the practical planter had played a pivotal role. He is a physically and mentally strong personality with a 24 x 365 responsibility in hand and armed with a good knowledge Wayamba commemorates 150 years of Technology, Kenya, Professor Yue-Rong Liang, Zhejiang on numerous disciplines including plantation Tea in Sri Lanka - International University Tea Research Institute, China, Professor agriculture & processing, human resource & financial Conference on Advances in Tea Keiko Saito, Tea Science Center, University of management and accounting. e experienced elite (AITea 2017) Shizuoka, Japan, Professor Yoo Yang-Seok, Kookmin planters eventually end up managing at corporate level University, Seoul, South Korea and Dr. I.S.B. Abeysinghe, developing policies and strategies for continuous Faculty of Agriculture and Plantation Management Director, Tea Research Institute of Sri Lanka . improvement in the performance of plantations under organized the “International Conference on Advances in Hon. Minister for Science, Technology and Research challenging business environments. Tea 2017” (AITea 2017) partnering with the Ministry Mr. Susil Premajayantha, Hon. Minster of Science, lighting the traditional oil lamp during the opening of Science, Technology and Research, Sri Lanka Tea Technology and Research, graced the event as the Chief ceremony of AlTea 2017 e Faculty of Agriculture and Plantation Management Board, Tea Research Institute of Sri Lanka and the Guest. Distinguished invitees included the Vice- of the Wayamba University of Sri Lanka was of the view Colombo Tea Traders Association. e two day Chancellor, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, the that the veteran and eminent tea planters who had conference was held at the BMICH, Colombo from 12 - Chairman, Sri Lanka Tea Board and the Chairman, tirelessly contributed to the sustainability of the industry 13 August. Over 100 international delegates from 10 Colombo Tea Traders Association. e successful should be thought of when commemorating 150 years of different countries and a number of local participants completion of AITea 2017 would not have been possible Tea in the country, which is indeed a significant representing universities, research institutes, without the support and funding from partners, milestone. government departments and plantation management Ministry of Science, Technology and Research, Ministry companies attended the event. AITea 2017 brought of Plantation Industries, Sri Lanka Tea Board, Tea We believe that this initiative would enable us to show together a rich diversity of authors and speakers Research Institute of Sri Lanka and Colombo Tea the gratitude of the industry towards these champions representing the global tea industry to share their ideas Traders Association. Organizing committee also whilst provoking the current plantation executives to on new developments in the global tea industry. extended their gratitude to the other sponsors, follow the footsteps of these exemplarily personalities Talawakelle Plantations PLC, Elpitiya Plantations PLC, Vice-Chancellor Prof. E.M.P. Ekanayake greeting a who were honest, committed, dedicated and self- e Keynote address of the conference was delivered by Vinds Tea International (Pvt.) Ltd., Kahawatta foreign delegate attending AlTea 2017 motivated during their period to contribute to the Prof. Kwan Jeong Song of Jeju National University, Plantations PLC, Udapussellawa Plantations PLC and betterment and sustainability of the industry. South Korea. Country perspectives of major tea growing CIC for their assistance. countries were presented by distinguished speakers; Dr. e Wayamba University of Sri Lanka is grateful to the N. Muraleedharan, former Director, Tocklai Tea AlTea 2017 was successfully conducted as a result of Planters Association of Ceylon for their cooperation in Research Institute, India, Professor Edward George excellent planning and untiring efforts of the organizing identifying the veteran planters who were honoured as Mamati, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and committee Chaired by Dr. D.C. Abeysinghe, Dean Champions of Ceylon Tea, at AlTea 2017. Faculty of Agriculture Plantation Management.

06 07 The Newsletter of the The Newsletter of the 2017 Wayamba University of Sri Lanka Wayamba University of Sri Lanka 2017 News News

key note address. Dr. Shermila Jayatilake was the Coordinator of UReS 2017.

Dr. Duminda Kuruppuarachchi conducting the Champions of Ceylon Tea honored at AlTea 2017 in Postgraduate students at Guizhou University, China workshop on “Statistical Data Analysis using SPSS” recognition of their untiring efforts to uplift the Tea industry of the country. From Left to Right Mr. An undergraduate announcing at the opening Jayantissa Ratwatte, Mr. Vernon Tissera, Mr. Clinton Undergraduate Research Symposium Change of the Degree Title of the Rodrigo, Dr D. V. Seevaratnam, Mr. Ken Murray, Mr. cerenomy, UReS 2017 Department of Insurance and Valuation Malin Goonetileke, Mr. Yasasiri Ratnayake and Mr. (UReS) After considering the comments of two external M. S. B. de S. Jayaratne. Mr. Wickrema de Alwis The fifth Undergraduate Research Symposium (UReS) reviewers, the Department of Insurance and Valuation and Mr. Manthi Delwita could not attend the event of the Faculty of Livestock, Fisheries and Nutrition due to personal reasons. submitted the proposal to change the title of the B.Sc. themed as "Innovation in Food and Nutrition" was held (Special) Degree in Insurance and Valuation to B.Sc. on 08th September. More than 120 research papers (Honors) Degree in Insurance and Finance to the Guizhou Government Scholarship covering fields of Food Science & Technology, Applied University Grants Commission. e Department programme -2017 Nutrition, Livestock & Avian Sciences and Aquaculture expects the proposal to be evaluated by the Quality As a result of the Memorandum of Understanding and Fisheries were presented at the technical sessions. signed between the Faculty of Agriculture and Assurance and Accreditation Council of the UGC Plantation Management and the College of Agriculture (QAAC). With the change in degree title and course of Guizhou University, China, the Faculty of Agriculture content, the Department expects enhanced student and Plantation Management was offered three attraction and increased job opportunities to the graduates in the fields of Insurance and Finance both scholarships for graduates passed out from the Faculty to Lighting of the oil lamp by the coordinator, UReS locally and internationally. pursue Doctoral studies in China. 2017

Ms DMLS Dissanayake (Specialized in Horticulture and Workshop on SPSS Green Policy of the Department of Landscape Gardening), Ms HDAAM Nandadasa e Department of Business Management, with the Accountancy (Specialized in Agribussiness Management) and Mr objective of improving the students' skill for using The Head and the staff of the Department of DSP Dharmasena (Specialized in Plantation statistical packages for research and publications, Accountancy of the Faculty of Business Studies & Management) were selected for this study programme organized a two day workshop on “Statistical Data Finance unanimously agreed to accept assignments and left for Guizhou University, Huaxi District, The Registrar, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kapila Analysis using SPSS”. Dr. Duminda Kuruppuarachchi, submitted by the students, only in the mode of soft copy. Guiyang City, Guizhou Province, P.R. China in Goonasekera and the Dean of Faculty at the inaugural Senior Lecturer of University of Sri Jayawardenapura was e decision was taken with the intention of eliminating September to commence Doctoral studies . Dr. K. session of the UReS the resource person. Programme was conducted on the the excessive use of paper associated with the submission Yakandawala is coordinating this programme. 20 and 27 September at the Faculty of Business of hard copies. In addition, the polythene usage has been e Chief Guest for the event was Prof. E M P Studies and Finance. abolished and the staff members exhibited their Ekanayake, Vice-Chancellor, Wayamba University of Sri commitment by moving in to lunch boxes avoiding Lanka whilst Prof. Kapila Goonasekere former Vice- lunch sheets. e department is keen on establishing a Chancellor of the University of Peradeniya delivered the completely eco- friendly academic environment within its premises and to extend the green culture all over the university.

08 09 The Newsletter of the The Newsletter of the 2017 Wayamba University of Sri Lanka Wayamba University of Sri Lanka 2017 News News

key note address. Dr. Shermila Jayatilake was the Coordinator of UReS 2017.

Dr. Duminda Kuruppuarachchi conducting the Champions of Ceylon Tea honored at AlTea 2017 in Postgraduate students at Guizhou University, China workshop on “Statistical Data Analysis using SPSS” recognition of their untiring efforts to uplift the Tea industry of the country. From Left to Right Mr. An undergraduate announcing at the opening Jayantissa Ratwatte, Mr. Vernon Tissera, Mr. Clinton Undergraduate Research Symposium Change of the Degree Title of the Rodrigo, Dr D. V. Seevaratnam, Mr. Ken Murray, Mr. cerenomy, UReS 2017 Department of Insurance and Valuation Malin Goonetileke, Mr. Yasasiri Ratnayake and Mr. (UReS) After considering the comments of two external M. S. B. de S. Jayaratne. Mr. Wickrema de Alwis The fifth Undergraduate Research Symposium (UReS) reviewers, the Department of Insurance and Valuation and Mr. Manthi Delwita could not attend the event of the Faculty of Livestock, Fisheries and Nutrition due to personal reasons. submitted the proposal to change the title of the B.Sc. themed as "Innovation in Food and Nutrition" was held (Special) Degree in Insurance and Valuation to B.Sc. on 08th September. More than 120 research papers (Honors) Degree in Insurance and Finance to the Guizhou Government Scholarship covering fields of Food Science & Technology, Applied University Grants Commission. e Department programme -2017 Nutrition, Livestock & Avian Sciences and Aquaculture expects the proposal to be evaluated by the Quality As a result of the Memorandum of Understanding and Fisheries were presented at the technical sessions. signed between the Faculty of Agriculture and Assurance and Accreditation Council of the UGC Plantation Management and the College of Agriculture (QAAC). With the change in degree title and course of Guizhou University, China, the Faculty of Agriculture content, the Department expects enhanced student and Plantation Management was offered three attraction and increased job opportunities to the graduates in the fields of Insurance and Finance both scholarships for graduates passed out from the Faculty to Lighting of the oil lamp by the coordinator, UReS locally and internationally. pursue Doctoral studies in China. 2017

Ms DMLS Dissanayake (Specialized in Horticulture and Workshop on SPSS Green Policy of the Department of Landscape Gardening), Ms HDAAM Nandadasa e Department of Business Management, with the Accountancy (Specialized in Agribussiness Management) and Mr objective of improving the students' skill for using The Head and the staff of the Department of DSP Dharmasena (Specialized in Plantation statistical packages for research and publications, Accountancy of the Faculty of Business Studies & Management) were selected for this study programme organized a two day workshop on “Statistical Data Finance unanimously agreed to accept assignments and left for Guizhou University, Huaxi District, The Registrar, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kapila Analysis using SPSS”. Dr. Duminda Kuruppuarachchi, submitted by the students, only in the mode of soft copy. Guiyang City, Guizhou Province, P.R. China in Goonasekera and the Dean of Faculty at the inaugural Senior Lecturer of University of Sri Jayawardenapura was e decision was taken with the intention of eliminating September to commence Doctoral studies . Dr. K. session of the UReS the resource person. Programme was conducted on the the excessive use of paper associated with the submission Yakandawala is coordinating this programme. 20 and 27 September at the Faculty of Business of hard copies. In addition, the polythene usage has been e Chief Guest for the event was Prof. E M P Studies and Finance. abolished and the staff members exhibited their Ekanayake, Vice-Chancellor, Wayamba University of Sri commitment by moving in to lunch boxes avoiding Lanka whilst Prof. Kapila Goonasekere former Vice- lunch sheets. e department is keen on establishing a Chancellor of the University of Peradeniya delivered the completely eco- friendly academic environment within its premises and to extend the green culture all over the university.

08 09 The Newsletter of the The Newsletter of the 2017 Wayamba University of Sri Lanka Wayamba University of Sri Lanka 2017 News News

Interactive Research Sessions for the of Sri Lanka on 2nd August at the Auditorium of Faculty Opening of the Business, Research & Hon. Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, the Minister of of Applied Sciences. Final Year Undergraduates Development (BREAD) Center Education, Hon A.D. Champika Premadasa, the State Minister of Industry & Commerce, Mr. Omar Kamil, e Department of Accountancy carried out a successful e food production and processing sector is having a Chairman - NEDA, Prof. E.M.P. Ekanayake, Vice- programme of interactive research sessions for the final boost due to the transition of Sri Lankan economy from Chancellor, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka (WUSL) year undergraduates of the Department on 21st August. lower income to middle income status. e global were among the dignitaries who participated gracing this e tradition so far adopted by the department was to drivers in every industry are now focusing South Asia as a event. With this, WUSL and NEDA have launched an call the students for presentations on the research result of the relatively high percentage of young capable unprecedented socio-economic activity none of the proposals prepared by them for the final year graduands available in the region. However, most of other state universities in the country has perceived so far. dissertation. After identifying some shortcomings of the these graduands are exploited as employees of multi- method adopted, the department initiated a new national companies elsewhere, rather than giving them mechanism of having a more effective and fruitful the opportunity to become entrepreneurs. discussion of research proposals with the participation of both the students and a panel of academics. Each student was given individual attention and more opportunity was available for the students to discuss the problems encountered by them throughout the process of preparation of research proposals.

Certificate Awarding Ceremony – Diploma in Personal Financial Management (Intake I) A section of the gathering of the opening ceremony e Department of Accountancy conducted a Diploma programme for the Wealth Planners and Wealth Hon. Prime Minister in conversation with the Vice- Planners' managers of the AIA Insurance Lanka Plc. is Chancellor, WUSL at the opening at BREAD Center was for the first time, such a programme catering to the Insurance industry was carried out by a state university. Awarding ceremony of the Diploma in Personal Hon. Prime Minister’s economic policy statement 2015, 28 participants successfully completed the course and Financial Management and the successful candidates. clearly states that the third generation economic reforms were conferred Diplomas ceremonially by Prof. E.M.P. rely on promoting innovations and productive growth. Ekanayake, the Vice-Chancellor, Wayamba University In line with that, establishment of 11 business and technology development centers and techno based campuses were proposed. Establishment of the Business, Guest Lecture Series for the Undergraduates Research and Development (BREAD) Center at Wayamba University of Sri Lanka (WUSL) with the With the objective of continuous quality improvement in the collaboration of National Enterprise Development Department of Accountancy a Guest Lecture series has been Authority (NEDA), which comes under the purview of organized for all subjects offered by the department during the the Ministry of Industry & Commerce, was an initiative ongoing semester. e first of the Guest Lecture series was conducted to realize the said reforms. by Dr. Ravi Liyanage, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the Raigam Group on 29 September at the Main Hall of the Faculty Enchantingly, the BREAD center was declared opened of Business Studies & Finance. ird and second year students of the by Hon. Ranil Wickramasinghe, the Prime Minister of Department of Accountancy attended the lecture. In his address, Dr. Sri Lanka on the 13th September, 2017. Ministers Hon. Ravi explained the accomplishment of entrepreneurial success Rishad Bathiudeen, the Minister of Industry & through Strategic Management Accounting and Financial Commerce, Hon. Gamini Jayawickrama Perera, the Hon. Prime minister unveiling the plaque at BREAD Dr. Ravi Liyanage, Chief Executive Officer of Management, with the experiences of Raigam Group. Minister of Wild Life & Sustainable Development, center Raigam Group delivering the Guest Lecture

10 11 The Newsletter of the The Newsletter of the 2017 Wayamba University of Sri Lanka Wayamba University of Sri Lanka 2017 News News

Interactive Research Sessions for the of Sri Lanka on 2nd August at the Auditorium of Faculty Opening of the Business, Research & Hon. Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, the Minister of of Applied Sciences. Final Year Undergraduates Development (BREAD) Center Education, Hon A.D. Champika Premadasa, the State Minister of Industry & Commerce, Mr. Omar Kamil, e Department of Accountancy carried out a successful e food production and processing sector is having a Chairman - NEDA, Prof. E.M.P. Ekanayake, Vice- programme of interactive research sessions for the final boost due to the transition of Sri Lankan economy from Chancellor, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka (WUSL) year undergraduates of the Department on 21st August. lower income to middle income status. e global were among the dignitaries who participated gracing this e tradition so far adopted by the department was to drivers in every industry are now focusing South Asia as a event. With this, WUSL and NEDA have launched an call the students for presentations on the research result of the relatively high percentage of young capable unprecedented socio-economic activity none of the proposals prepared by them for the final year graduands available in the region. However, most of other state universities in the country has perceived so far. dissertation. After identifying some shortcomings of the these graduands are exploited as employees of multi- method adopted, the department initiated a new national companies elsewhere, rather than giving them mechanism of having a more effective and fruitful the opportunity to become entrepreneurs. discussion of research proposals with the participation of both the students and a panel of academics. Each student was given individual attention and more opportunity was available for the students to discuss the problems encountered by them throughout the process of preparation of research proposals.

Certificate Awarding Ceremony – Diploma in Personal Financial Management (Intake I) A section of the gathering of the opening ceremony e Department of Accountancy conducted a Diploma programme for the Wealth Planners and Wealth Hon. Prime Minister in conversation with the Vice- Planners' managers of the AIA Insurance Lanka Plc. is Chancellor, WUSL at the opening at BREAD Center was for the first time, such a programme catering to the Insurance industry was carried out by a state university. Awarding ceremony of the Diploma in Personal Hon. Prime Minister’s economic policy statement 2015, 28 participants successfully completed the course and Financial Management and the successful candidates. clearly states that the third generation economic reforms were conferred Diplomas ceremonially by Prof. E.M.P. rely on promoting innovations and productive growth. Ekanayake, the Vice-Chancellor, Wayamba University In line with that, establishment of 11 business and technology development centers and techno based campuses were proposed. Establishment of the Business, Guest Lecture Series for the Undergraduates Research and Development (BREAD) Center at Wayamba University of Sri Lanka (WUSL) in With the objective of continuous quality improvement in the collaboration with the National Enterprise Department of Accountancy a Guest Lecture series has been Development Authority (NEDA), which comes under organized for all subjects offered by the department during the the purview of the Ministry of Industry & Commerce, ongoing semester. e first of the Guest Lecture series was conducted was an initiative to realize the said reforms. by Dr. Ravi Liyanage, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the Raigam Group on 29 September at the Main Hall of the Faculty Enchantingly, the BREAD center was declared opened of Business Studies & Finance. ird and second year students of the by Hon. Ranil Wickramasinghe, the Prime Minister of Department of Accountancy attended the lecture. In his address, Dr. Sri Lanka on the 13th September, 2017. Ministers Hon. Ravi explained the accomplishment of entrepreneurial success Rishad Bathiudeen, the Minister of Industry & through Strategic Management Accounting and Financial Commerce, Hon. Gamini Jayawickrama Perera, the Hon. Prime minister unveiling the plaque at BREAD Dr. Ravi Liyanage, Chief Executive Officer of Management, with the experiences of Raigam Group. Minister of Wild Life & Sustainable Development, center Raigam Group delivering the Guest Lecture

10 11 The Newsletter of the 2017 Wayamba University of Sri Lanka News

Ribbon cutting custom to make the official opening of the BREAD center

12 The Newsletter of the The Newsletter of the 2017 Wayamba University of Sri Lanka Wayamba University of Sri Lanka 2017 News Staff achievements

Madavi wins two Best Presenter awards Animal/Microbial Genetics, at the 12 Malaysian International Genetic Congress Ms. M.P. Dassanayaka, Lecturer (Probationary) (MiGC12) held on 25 to 27 September, in attached to the Department of Biotechnology won Selangor, Malaysia. e congress was organized the Best Presenter award for her presentation on by the Genetic Society of Malaysia (PGM) and “Biodegradation of Phenol by Two Proteobacteria: University Putra Malaysia (UPM). Klebsiella variicola and Ochrobactrum intermedium” in the session of Biotechnology and Genetics at the 4 International Conference on Agriculture and Forestry, held on 24 to 25 August, 2017 at Taj Samudra, Colombo. e conference was organized by the International Institute of Knowledge Management (TIIKM) in collaboration with University of Muhammadiyah Malang, Indonesia, Warmadewa University, Indonesia and Progressive Sustainable Developers, Nepal. In addition to the above, Ms. Madavi won the third prize for the Best Presenter for her presentation titled “Molecular Identification Award winners at 12 Malaysia International of Potential Phenol Biodegrading Bacteria by 16S Genetic Congress (MiGC12) rRNA Sequence Analysis” in the session of

Mr. GVRK Vithanage of Mrs. PADAN Appuhamy attached the Department of to the Department of Mathematical Sciences Mathematical Sciences, Faculty of has been offered a Applied Science was awarded a placement at Texas Tech Chinese Government Scholarship University, USA to to read for her Ph.D. Degree in the pursue a postgraduate Huazhong University of Science degree leading to Ph.D. and Technology, China in Mathematics starting from July.

WAI Lakmal obtains his PhD Congratulations to WAI Lakmal on the successful completion of his PhD in Economics at the University of Kelaniya. Dr. WAI Lakmal is a B.A. Special degree graduate in Economics from the University of Colombo. He obtained his M. Sc. in Economics from the University of Kelaniya. He started his academic career as a Temporary Lecturer in the Department of Economics, University of Colombo and worked in that post until he was recruited by the Department of Banking and Finance of the Wayamba University of Sri Ribbon cutting ceremony to make the official opening of the BREAD center Lanka in 2003. Currently he is attached to the Department of Banking and Finance at Wayamba as a Senior Lecturer.

12 13 The Newsletter of the The Newsletter of the 2017 Wayamba University of Sri Lanka Wayamba University of Sri Lanka 2017 Appointments & Promotions Appointments & Promotions

Darshani joins Department of Aquaculture and Fisheries Dr. V.G.T.N.Vidanagama was appointed as the Head of the Department of Computing Dr. A.G.S. S. Darshani, B.Sc., & Information Systems. He assumed duties in his new post with effect from 08 June (Special)( Ruhuna), M. Sc. 2017. (Bodo, Norway), PhD. (Tokyo, Japan) was recruited as a Senior Lecturer Grade ll, to the Department of Aquaculture and Fisheries with effect from 24 Suchima joins Department Dr. Manjula Wickramasinghe, July. of Aquaculture and Fisheries Senior Lecturer, Department of Dr. J.C. Edirisinghe promoted to Professor Engineering Technology was Ms Suchima Gonapinuwala appointed as the Coordinator, was recruited as a Lecturer External Affairs for Kuliyapitiya (Probationary) to the Dr. Jagath Edirisinghe was promoted to the post of Professor with effect from premises with effect from 4th Department of Aquaculture July 2016. Prof. Edirisinghe started his career as an Agricultural Economist at July. e scope of the position and Fisheries with effect from the Rubber Research Institute and joined the Department of Agri Buisness includes liaising with 17 July. government/private sector Management of the Faculty of Agriculture and Plantation Management in organizations, harnessing 2005. Congratulations, Jagath for achieving a further milestone in your career. external resources, coordinating awareness programmes and New Heads of Departments appointed to the Faculty of Agriculture and Plantation monitoring graduates' performance. Management

Following the completion of two successful terms of the outgoing heads, three new Heads of Departments were appointed to the Faculty of Agriculture and Plantation Management with effect from 4 September. Whilst appreciating the contribution of previous Heads of Departments, the Faculty warmly welcomes the new Heads and wish them strength and courage to take the respective Departments to reach further heights.

Head, Department of Horticulture and Landscape Gardening

e new Head of Department of Horticulture and Landscape Gardening is Dr. P.I. Prasanthi Perera. Prasanthi was a Senior Lecturer attached to the Department. She was graduated with a B.Sc. (Agriculture) [Hons.] degree from the University of Peradeniya in 1997 and obtained a Ph.D. (Plant Science) from the same University in 2008. She Mr. Manoharan Kesavan had been working at the Coconut Research Institute, Sri Lanka from 1999-2008 as a joined the Department of Dr. L.D.R.D.Perera, the Head Dr. V.G.T.N. Vidanagama, attached to the Research Officer and from 2008-2012 as a Senior Research Officer. She was a post- Department of Computing & Information Engineering Technology as a of the Department of doctoral fellow at the International Centre for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) based in Systems was appointed to the Post of Lecturer (Probationary) in Computing & Information Cali, Colombia from 2010-2013 and continued working as a Plant Cell and Tissue Systems was appointed as the Senior Student Counsellor and Dr. August. He obtained his BSc. Culture Specialist for another year until she was recruited to the Faculty of Agriculture Dean of the Faculty of Applied E.A.C.P. Karunarathne from the Eng. (Hons) with Department of Industrial Management and Plantation management as a Senior Lecturer in 2014. She is serving as a plant cell Sciences with effect from specialization in was appointed as the Student Counsellor 07 June 2017. and tissue culture specialist and in various other capacities for the university. Civil Engineering from for the Level 1 & Level 2 students of the e Department wishes to place on record the commitment and leadership of Dr. University of Peradeniya in Applied Sciences Degree Programme for Kapila Yakandawala, during two terms as Head of Department. 2014. the Academic Year 2015/2016.

14 1511 The Newsletter of the The Newsletter of the 2017 Wayamba University of Sri Lanka Wayamba University of Sri Lanka 2017 Appointments & Promotions Appointments & Promotions

Darshani joins Department of Aquaculture and Fisheries Dr. V.G.T.N.Vidanagama was appointed as the Head of the Department of Computing Dr. A.G.S. S. Darshani, B.Sc., & Information Systems. He assumed duties in his new post with effect from 08 June (Special)( Ruhuna), M. Sc. 2017. (Bodo, Norway), PhD. (Tokyo, Japan) was recruited as a Senior Lecturer Grade ll, to the Department of Aquaculture and Fisheries with effect from 24 Suchima joins Department Dr. Manjula Wickramasinghe, July. of Aquaculture and Fisheries Senior Lecturer, Department of Dr. J.C. Edirisinghe promoted to Professor Engineering Technology was Ms Suchima Gonapinuwala appointed as the Coordinator, was recruited as a Lecturer External Affairs for Kuliyapitiya (Probationary) to the Dr. Jagath Edirisinghe was promoted to the post of Professor with effect from premises with effect from 4th Department of Aquaculture July 2016. Prof. Edirisinghe started his career as an Agricultural Economist at July. e scope of the position and Fisheries with effect from the Rubber Research Institute and joined the Department of Agri Buisness includes liaising with 17 July. government/private sector Management of the Faculty of Agriculture and Plantation Management in organizations, harnessing 2005. Congratulations, Jagath for achieving a further milestone in your career. external resources, coordinating awareness programmes and New Heads of Departments appointed to the Faculty of Agriculture and Plantation monitoring graduates' performance. Management

Following the completion of two successful terms of the outgoing heads, three new Heads of Departments were appointed to the Faculty of Agriculture and Plantation Management with effect from 4 September. Whilst appreciating the contribution of previous Heads of Departments, the Faculty warmly welcomes the new Heads and wish them strength and courage to take the respective Departments to reach further heights.

Head, Department of Horticulture and Landscape Gardening

e new Head of Department of Horticulture and Landscape Gardening is Dr. P.I. Prasanthi Perera. Prasanthi was a Senior Lecturer attached to the Department. She was graduated with a B.Sc. (Agriculture) [Hons.] degree from the University of Peradeniya in 1997 and obtained a Ph.D. (Plant Science) from the same University in 2008. She Mr. Manoharan Kesavan had been working at the Coconut Research Institute, Sri Lanka from 1999-2008 as a joined the Department of Dr. L.D.R.D.Perera, the Head Dr. V.G.T.N. Vidanagama, attached to the Research Officer and from 2008-2012 as a Senior Research Officer. She was a post- Department of Computing & Information Engineering Technology as a of the Department of doctoral fellow at the International Centre for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) based in Systems was appointed to the Post of Lecturer (Probationary) in Computing & Information Cali, Colombia from 2010-2013 and continued working as a Plant Cell and Tissue Systems was appointed as the Senior Student Counsellor and Dr. August. He obtained his BSc. Culture Specialist for another year until she was recruited to the Faculty of Agriculture Dean of the Faculty of Applied E.A.C.P. Karunarathne from the Eng. (Hons) with Department of Industrial Management and Plantation management as a Senior Lecturer in 2014. She is serving as a plant cell Sciences with effect from specialization in was appointed as the Student Counsellor 07 June 2017. and tissue culture specialist and in various other capacities for the university. Civil Engineering from for the Level 1 & Level 2 students of the e Department wishes to place on record the commitment and leadership of Dr. University of Peradeniya in Applied Sciences Degree Programme for Kapila Yakandawala, during two terms as Head of Department. 2014. the Academic Year 2015/2016.

14 1511 The Newsletter of the The Newsletter of the 2017 Wayamba University of Sri Lanka Wayamba University of Sri Lanka 2017 Appointments & Promotions Appointments & Promotions

Head, Department of Biotechnology Dr. T.K. Karandaketiya appointed Head, Department of Business Management Dr. B.L. Wajira K. Balasooriya is the new Head of Department, Department of Biotechnology. Wajira graduated with Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Honors) from Dr. T.K. Karandaketiya was appointed as the Head of the Department of Business University of Peradeniya in 1999. She gained early work experience as a Teaching Management of the Faculty of Business Studies and Finance with effect from 4th of Assistant at University of Peradeniya and Wayamba University of Sri Lanka during 2000- September. He has a B.Com degree with marketing specialization from University of 2002. She obtained her MSc in Agriculture (University of Peradeniya) in 2003 and MSc Sri Jayawardenapura and successfully completed his M.Sc. from the same university. in Environmental Sanitation (Ghent University, Belgium) in 2006. She successfully Dr. T.K. Karandaketiya completed his PhD at Hust University in China in 2014. completed her PhD in Applied Biological Sciences in 2011 at Ghent University. On completion of her PhD, Dr. Balasooriya worked as a NSF research scientist at the Department of Soil Science in University of Peradeniya where she was engaged in a research project on proximal soil sensing based site-specific soil management in paddy soils. After being recruited as a Senior Lecturer to the Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture and Plantation Management, in 2014, she has been serving as a specialist in soil microbiology and in other capacities for the faculty and university. Department of Banking and Finance recruits Ms. SNRF Dias as Dr. Kalaivani Vivehananthan, the former Head served with enthusiasm and commitment Lecturer (Probationary) to uplift the Department during her two terms for which the department is thankful to her. It is with pleasure that the Department of Banking and Finance announces the recruitment of Ms. SNRF Dias as a Lecturer (Probationary) with effect from 1st August 2017. She obtained her B.Sc. (Special) Degree in Banking and Finance with a First Class Head, Department of Agri-business Management Honors from Wayamba University of Sri Lanka in 2016 and is currently reading for her M.Sc. in Applied Finance at University of Sri Jayewardenepura. She grabbed three Gold Medals at the General Convocation 2016 including the Gold Professor Jagath C. Edirisinghe was appointed the Head, Department of Agri-business medal for the Best Overall Performance in the Faulty of Business Studies & Finance. Ms. Management. Jagath graduated from the University of Peradeniya with a BSc SNRF Dias first served as an academic support staff member in the Department of (Agriculture) obtaining a second class upper division. He was awarded an MPhil degree Banking and Finance in the Faculty of Business Studies and Finance prior to being in Agricultural Economics from the Postgraduate Institute of Agriculture (PGIA) in appointed as a Lecturer (Probationary). Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. He read for his PhD at University of Reading in the United Kingdom after been awarded a 'Commonwealth Scholarship' on merit basis. His area of specialization is Agricultural and Food Economics. He started his research career as an Agricultural Economist at the Rubber Research Institute of Sri Lanka, where he was involved in many local as well as foreign Visits & Travel collaborative research projects. He joined the Department of Agribusiness Management in the Faculty of Agriculture and Plantation Management as a lecturer in the year 2005. Considering his academic achievements and contribution to the development of the Dr. D.C. Abeysinghe presents the Country paper at faculty, he was promoted to Professor in 2017. Myung Won World Tea Expo 2017, Seoul, Korea e Department extends its gratitude to Dr. Rupika Abeynayaka, the former Head, for Dr. D.C Abeysinghe, Dean, Faculty of Agriculture and her leadership and commitment during the past six years. Plantation Management had been invited to present their country paper on “Sri Lankan Tea and its unique Indika joins Department of Plantation Management as a Senior characteristics” by Myung Won Cultural Foundation Korea. e Myung Won World Tea Expo is an annual Lecturer event organized by Myung Won Cultural Foundation Dr. Indika Herath has been appointed as Senior Lecturer in the Department of Plantation Korea to promote black tea culture. e Myung Won Management with effect from the 4 September. She graduated from University of Peradeniya World Tea Expo 2017 was held at COEX B Hall Seoul, Sri Lanka, obtaining B.Sc (Agric.) Degree in 2001. She worked at the Coconut Research Korea from 24 to 27 August. Speakers from China, Institute, Sri Lanka from 2005 to 2017 as a Senior Research Officer. She obtained her PhD in Sri Lanka, Japan, Turkey, Malaysia, Korea, USA and Soil Science in 2013 from Massey University, New Zealand. She contributes to the Department Australia had been invited by the organizers to present Dr. D.C Abeysinghe presenting the country paper at of Plantation Management as an expert in Soils and Plant Nutrition. We wish Indika a fruitful their respective country papers. Myung Won World Tea Expo 2017, Seoul, Korea career at Wayamba !

16 17 The Newsletter of the The Newsletter of the 2017 Wayamba University of Sri Lanka Wayamba University of Sri Lanka 2017 Appointments & Promotions Appointments & Promotions

Head, Department of Biotechnology Dr. T.K. Karandaketiya appointed Head, Department of Business Management Dr. B.L. Wajira K. Balasooriya is the new Head of Department, Department of Biotechnology. Wajira graduated with Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (Honors) from Dr. T.K. Karandaketiya was appointed as the Head of the Department of Business University of Peradeniya in 1999. She gained early work experience as a Teaching Management of the Faculty of Business Studies and Finance with effect from 4th of Assistant at University of Peradeniya and Wayamba University of Sri Lanka during 2000- September. He has a B.Com degree with marketing specialization from University of 2002. She obtained her MSc in Agriculture (University of Peradeniya) in 2003 and MSc Sri Jayawardenapura and successfully completed his M.Sc. from the same university. in Environmental Sanitation (Ghent University, Belgium) in 2006. She successfully Dr. T.K. Karandaketiya completed his PhD at Hust University in China in 2014. completed her PhD in Applied Biological Sciences in 2011 at Ghent University. On completion of her PhD, Dr. Balasooriya worked as a NSF research scientist at the Department of Soil Science in University of Peradeniya where she was engaged in a research project on proximal soil sensing based site-specific soil management in paddy soils. After being recruited as a Senior Lecturer to the Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture and Plantation Management, in 2014, she has been serving as a specialist in soil microbiology and in other capacities for the faculty and university. Department of Banking and Finance recruits Ms. SNRF Dias as Dr. Kalaivani Vivehananthan, the former Head served with enthusiasm and commitment Lecturer (Probationary) to uplift the Department during her two terms for which the department is thankful to her. It is with pleasure that the Department of Banking and Finance announces the recruitment of Ms. SNRF Dias as a Lecturer (Probationary) with effect from 1st August 2017. She obtained her B.Sc. (Special) Degree in Banking and Finance with a First Class Head, Department of Agri-business Management Honors from Wayamba University of Sri Lanka in 2016 and is currently reading for her M.Sc. in Applied Finance at University of Sri Jayewardenepura. She grabbed three Gold Medals at the General Convocation 2016 including the Gold Professor Jagath C. Edirisinghe was appointed the Head, Department of Agri-business medal for the Best Overall Performance in the Faulty of Business Studies & Finance. Ms. Management. Jagath graduated from the University of Peradeniya with a BSc SNRF Dias first served as an academic support staff member in the Department of (Agriculture) obtaining a second class upper division. He was awarded an MPhil degree Banking and Finance in the Faculty of Business Studies and Finance prior to being in Agricultural Economics from the Postgraduate Institute of Agriculture (PGIA) in appointed as a Lecturer (Probationary). Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. He read for his PhD at University of Reading in the United Kingdom after been awarded a 'Commonwealth Scholarship' on merit basis. His area of specialization is Agricultural and Food Economics. He started his research career as an Agricultural Economist at the Rubber Research Institute of Sri Lanka, where he was involved in many local as well as foreign Visits & Travel collaborative research projects. He joined the Department of Agribusiness Management in the Faculty of Agriculture and Plantation Management as a lecturer in the year 2005. Considering his academic achievements and contribution to the development of the Dr. D.C. Abeysinghe presents the Country paper at faculty, he was promoted to Professor in 2017. Myung Won World Tea Expo 2017, Seoul, Korea e Department extends its gratitude to Dr. Rupika Abeynayaka, the former Head, for Dr. D.C Abeysinghe, Dean, Faculty of Agriculture and her leadership and commitment during the past six years. Plantation Management had been invited to present their country paper on “Sri Lankan Tea and its unique Indika joins Department of Plantation Management as a Senior characteristics” by Myung Won Cultural Foundation Korea. e Myung Won World Tea Expo is an annual Lecturer event organized by Myung Won Cultural Foundation Dr. Indika Herath has been appointed as Senior Lecturer in the Department of Plantation Korea to promote black tea culture. e Myung Won Management with effect from the 4 September. She graduated from University of Peradeniya World Tea Expo 2017 was held at COEX B Hall Seoul, Sri Lanka, obtaining B.Sc (Agric.) Degree in 2001. She worked at the Coconut Research Korea from 24 to 27 August. Speakers from China, Institute, Sri Lanka from 2005 to 2017 as a Senior Research Officer. She obtained her PhD in Sri Lanka, Japan, Turkey, Malaysia, Korea, USA and Soil Science in 2013 from Massey University, New Zealand. She contributes to the Department Australia had been invited by the organizers to present Dr. D.C Abeysinghe presenting the country paper at of Plantation Management as an expert in Soils and Plant Nutrition. We wish Indika a fruitful their respective country papers. Myung Won World Tea Expo 2017, Seoul, Korea career at Wayamba !

16 17 The Newsletter of the The Newsletter of the 2017 Wayamba University of Sri Lanka Wayamba University of Sri Lanka 2017 Visits & Travel Student Activities

on the 18th of August at the main hall of the Faculty. Dr. Vidanagamage presents a paper at 1st held at Kyoto Research Park, Kyoto, Japan from 19 to 22ⁿ Workshop on Printed Circuit Board Ÿ e Student Union of Faculty of Applied Sciences together Global Internet of ings Summit-2017 September 2017. Asia pacific weed science society celebrated their with the subcommittee of “Zest – Api Ape Denuma Golden Jubilee (1967 – 2017) in 2017 and the theme of the Designing Bedaganimu” conducted seminars and mock examinations in Dr. VGTN Vidanagama attached to the conference was “Weed Science for people, Agriculture and Nature”. Electronics Society of the Department of the following schools to assist GCE (O/L) students from rural Department of Computing & Information Dinusha made 02 oral presentations at the conference in the Electronics organized a workshop on Printed areas during the month of September. Systems presented a paper titled “Towards sessions of Aquatic weeds and Allelopathy. e titles of two Circuit Board Designing for the members of the Ampara Polwaththa Maha Vidyalaya Society. e participants were able to finalize their Realization of an IoT Environment” at the 1st presentations were Genetic and Morphological diversity of Agalawaththa Mihindu Central College Ludwigia sedioides in Sri Lanka: a potential invasive aquatic plant own circuit design up to the operation level. e Global Internet of ings Summit-2017 held Pannala Diyakalamulla Sripathi Maha Vidyalaya and Allelopathic potential of Ludwigia sedioides. simulation of an electronic circuit, PCB designing, Ÿ in Geneva, Switzerland. In collaboration with “Wayamba Ahasa Yata Social Service” Etching and Routing techniques, Drilling and undertook repairs to the Katuwaththewela Primary School. Soldering were practised by the participants. e program was conducted by Dr. Upanith Ms. Dinusha Debarawatta attends a Science Liyanaarachchi, who was a former office bearer of Conference, Kyoto, Japan the Society.

Ms. Dinusha Debarawatta, Lecturer Wayamba Engineering Technology (Probationary), Department of Horticulture Society (WETS) and Landscape Gardening attended the 26 Ms Dinusha Debarawatta with other presenters at the Science An academic society for the Department of Asian–Pacific Weed Science Society Conference Conference, Kyoto, Japan Engineering Technology was formed with the membership of the first batch of Engineering Concerts and Cultural Events Technology undergraduates. e society was named "Wayamba Engineering Technology Society (WETS)" with the consent of the majority of the Electronics Society of the Department of Electronics organized “Gee Sara Wiyana- 2017”, a Sinhala classical symphonic criticism membership. e first executive committee programme for the fourth consecutive year. e programme was held with a renowned poet-lyrics writer Mr. Bandula meeting of the society was held on 25th of August. Pirith chanting ceremony organized by the Student Union of the Nanayakkarawasam on 8 of August at University Auditorium. e Chief Guest was the Prof. E.M.P.Ekanayake, Vice- Faculty of Applied Sciences Chancellor. e audience thoroughly enjoyed the colorful event.

Assisting students from rural areas to face the GCE (O/L) Examination e logo and first executive committee meeting of Wayamba Engineering Technology Society Sports Highlights from “Gee Sara Wiyana - 2017” Student Union of the Faculty of Applied Sciences Wayamba undergrads excelled at the Inter University Games 2017. Nature Team of the Faculty of Agriculture and Plantation Management e members of Student Union of the Faculty of e university is proud of their achievements and wishes to extend Applied Sciences conducted following social and best wishes to continue their performance in the future as well. Under the monthly lecture series, FAPM Nature Team organized two lectures to educate the University welfare activities. community in nature related aspects. Ÿ A shramadana campaign to colourwash and Baseball e first lecture titled “Introduction to Dragonflies and Damselflies” was delivered by Mr. Amila to clean the surrounding environment of a Wayamba University of Sri Lanka emerged 2ⁿ runner-up at the Prasanna Sumanapala, a Freelance Ecologist in August. school in the nearby area was organized as a 2017 Inter University Baseball tournament held at University of “Coastal and Marine Resource Management” was the title of the lecture conducted in the month of September. e presenter part of the “jhU wyi hg” programme. Peradeniya from11 to 13 August. was Mr. ushan Kapurusinghe, Project Leader and Co-founder of e Turtle Conservation Project (TCP) of Sri Lanka. Ÿ A Pirith Chanting Ceremony was organized Both lectures were conducted at the Faculty of Agriculture and Plantation Management. 18 19 The Newsletter of the Wayamba University of Sri Lanka 2017 Student Activities

on the 18th of August at the main hall of the Faculty. Workshop on Printed Circuit Board Ÿ e Student Union of Faculty of Applied Sciences together with the subcommittee of “Zest – Api Ape Denuma Designing Bedaganimu” conducted seminars and mock examinations in Electronics Society of the Department of the following schools to assist GCE (O/L) students from rural Electronics organized a workshop on Printed areas during the month of September. Circuit Board Designing for the members of the Ampara Polwaththa Maha Vidyalaya Society. e participants were able to finalize their Agalawaththa Mihindu Central College own circuit design up to the operation level. e Pannala Diyakalamulla Sripathi Maha Vidyalaya simulation of an electronic circuit, PCB designing, Ÿ In collaboration with “Wayamba Ahasa Yata Social Service” Etching and Routing techniques, Drilling and undertook repairs to the Katuwaththewela Primary School. Soldering were practised by the participants. e program was conducted by Dr. Upanith Liyanaarachchi, who was a former office bearer of the Society.

Wayamba Engineering Technology Society (WETS) An academic society for the Department of Engineering Technology was formed with the membership of the first batch of Engineering Technology undergraduates. e society was named "Wayamba Engineering Technology Society (WETS)" with the consent of the majority of the membership. e first executive committee meeting of the society was held on 25th of August. Pirith chanting ceremony organized by the Student Union of the Faculty of Applied Sciences

Assisting students from rural areas to face the GCE (O/L) Examination First executive committee meeting of Wayamba Engineering Technology Society Sports Student Union of the Faculty of Applied Sciences Wayamba undergrads excelled at the Inter University Games 2017. e members of Student Union of the Faculty of e university is proud of their achievements and wishes to extend Applied Sciences conducted following social and best wishes to continue their performance in the future as well. welfare activities. Ÿ A shramadana campaign to colourwash and Baseball to clean the surrounding environment of a Wayamba University of Sri Lanka emerged 2ⁿ runner-up at the school in the nearby area was organized as a 2017 Inter University Baseball tournament held at University of part of the “jhU wyi hg” programme. Peradeniya from11 to 13 August. Ÿ A Pirith Chanting Ceremony was organized

19 Taekwondo E.M.R.P. Bandara of Wayamba University of Sri Lanka secured a Gold Medal at the 2017 Inter University Games held at University of Ruhuna from 9th to 10th September becoming the Taekwondo Champion (Sparring 80-87 kg).

Wayamba University Baseball Team 2017

Wayamba team in action at the 2017 Inter Gratitude of Wayamba “Taekwondo team 2017” of the University Baseball Tournament University of Sri Lanka to Wayamba University of Sri Lanka. E M R P Bandara for his performance Announcements

Inauguration of Intake – III of the Certificate in Personal Financial Management (CPFM)

e Department of Accountancy is pleased to Taxation, Risk Management, Time Value of Money announce the inauguration of Intake – III of the and Investment & Retirement Planning which are Certificate in Personal Financial Management much relevant to the Insurance industry. As per the (CPFM) for Wealth Planners and Wealth Planners' vision statement of the department, “An Assured Managers of AIA Insurance Lanka PLC, on future for all Sri Lankans and a prosperous society th 07 October 2017 at AIA Tower, Colombo 07. e through learning”, the objective of this Certificate Department of Accountancy is proud as the initiator Course is to create qualified wealth planners and of Certificate in Personal Financial Management wealth planners' Managers, who provide advice on course and it has been designed to provide solutions in insurance to their clients found all over opportunities for exploring new knowledge in the the country. areas of Personal Financial Management, Personal

Editorial Board Please send us your news to be published: Advisor - Prof. E M P Ekanayake, Vice-Chancellor Chief - Coordinator – Prof. A Nugawela Vice-Chancellor’s Office, Coordinators - Wayamba University of Sri Lanka Dr (Mrs) B L W K Balasooriya Mrs. H R K Nagahamulla Kuliyapitiya, Dr (Ms) O D A N Perera Sri Lanka Mrs. K A M S Kodisinghe Tel. No. 0372282758 Mr. R J Wellassa Fax. No. 0372281392 Language Editor - Mr. M K S M Samaranayake Email:- [email protected] Graphic & Layout Designer - Mr. L R B Weerasekara Printing and Circulation - Mrs. K B V B R Gunathilake

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