Ratnapura, Sri Lanka (June 08, 2025) — The Sri Lanka Institute of Professional Studies and Skills Development (SLIPSSD) celebrated the academic excellence and accomplishments of 700 students at its 2025 Education Awards Ceremony, held on June 8, 2025, at the Sabaragamuwa Provincial Council Auditorium.
The prestigious ceremony honored students who successfully completed their studies across 2024 and 2025. The event was held under the patronage of Dr. Madhavi Bandara, Senior Executive Director of SLIPSSD—a government-established institution dedicated to advancing accessible, quality vocational and skills-based education islandwide.
Chief Guest Address: Fostering Educational Rights & Quality Learning
Dr. Chrishantha J.K.M. Dissanayake, Sri Lankan Commissioner for the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Alliance), graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Dr. Dissanayake also serves as the Founder, President, and Director General of the Shri Hela Cultural Collaboration Foundation (SHCCF) and the Shri Hela Higher Education Academy, as well as the Founder, President, and Governing Commissioner of the International Human Rights Protection & Enforcement Council.
Addressing the assembly of school principals, educators, parents, and awardees, Dr. Dissanayake emphasized the pivotal role of quality education as a fundamental right and driver of national progress. He reaffirmed the joint commitment of the IHRC and SHCCF to supporting educational development and cultivating environments where student achievement thrives.
Distinguished Academic and Institutional Guests
The ceremony brought together prominent educators, lecturers, and civil coordinators, including:
- SLIPSSD Academic Faculty: Dr. Madhavi Bandara, Mrs. Indika Sirinilame, Mrs. Gayathri Jayawardena, and Mrs. Kanthi Godagamuwa
- IHRC & SHCCF Representatives: Mr. Anura Vitarana (Zonal Coordinator, IHRC / Director, SHCCF), Mr. Kamal Abeywardena, and Mr. Jayatissa Athaudahetti
- Regional Education Sector Leaders: School principals and senior teachers from across the province
Date: June 08, 2025
Reported by: Induwara Bandara Director of Youth Affairs — Shri Hela Cultural Collaboration Foundation Zonal Coordinator — IHRC SMM Sri Lanka
