Category Archives: News

The Department of Statistics is delighted to announce that Dr. Chathuri Jayasinghe, Senior Lecturer of the Department of Statistics, has been awarded the President’s Award for Scientific Research 2025 at the National Research Council (NRC) President’s Research Awards for Scientific Research Ceremony, held on 18th December 2025 at Waters Edge.

This prestigious national award was conferred in recognition of Dr. Jayasinghe’s outstanding research contributions through her publications from the year 2021, reflecting her commitment to high-quality scholarly work and her significant contribution to the advancement of scientific research in Sri Lanka.

We are immensely proud of Dr. Jayasinghe’s achievement, which brings great honour to our department and the university. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to her and wish her continued success, good health, and excellence in all her future academic and research endeavours.

Dr. Rajitha M. Silva, Head of the Department of Statistics, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, and the current President of the Institute of Applied Statistics Sri Lanka (IASSL), recently appeared on a special program aired on News First – Sirasa TV. He was joined by Dr. Sampath Hapuarachchi, President of the Statistics Popularization Committee of IASSL.

The discussion focused on the key services provided by IASSL and its expanding role in strengthening the nation’s statistical capacity. Dr. Rajitha highlighted the institute’s contributions to professional development, capacity-building initiatives, and the promotion of evidence-based decision-making across government, industry, and academia.

They elaborated on the work of the Statistics Popularization Committee, emphasizing ongoing efforts to raise statistical awareness among the public, encourage data-driven thinking, and inspire the next generation to appreciate the value of statistics in everyday life.

Their participation underscored IASSL’s commitment to elevating the standards of applied statistics in Sri Lanka and its role in supporting national progress through enhanced data literacy. The Department of Statistics, USJ, is proud to see its academic leaders championing the importance of statistics on national media platforms.

Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/pTrMf9uVf00?si=IviVbHy6yp3TvcgR

Two esteemed academics from the Department of Statistics, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Dr. Rajitha M. Silva, Head of the Department, and Dr. Chitraka Wickramarachchi, Senior Lecturers participated in a special discussion on Charana TV, where they highlighted the growing importance of statistics and data-driven decision-making in today’s world.

During the program, they explained how statistical thinking can be applied across diverse fields such as business, health, education, policy planning, and scientific research. The discussion also emphasized the role of accurate data collection, proper analysis, and responsible interpretation in producing meaningful insights.

Their contributions helped raise public awareness on how statistics can empower individuals and organizations to make informed decisions. The Department is proud to see its academic leaders actively engaging in national conversations and promoting data literacy among broader audiences.

The Department of Statistics, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, is now accepting applications for the Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Statistics (PGCert) – 2026 intake. This UGC-approved programme (SLQF Level 7) is designed to provide graduates from any discipline with a strong foundation in applied statistical methods and data analysis.

The programme is ideal for professionals and graduates from science, management, IT, health, engineering, and many other fields who wish to enhance their analytical capabilities and apply statistical tools to real-world problems. Through a blend of theory and hands-on practice, learners will gain experience in widely used statistical software packages such as R, SPSS, and MINITAB, along with key concepts including probability, regression analysis, experimental design, and data analytics.

Programme Details

• Commencement: February 2026
• Mode of Delivery: Hybrid (Online lectures with in-person examinations)
• Eligibility: Open to graduates from any field

How to Apply

Applications can be submitted online via the link below:
Apply here: https://www.graduate.sjp.ac.lk/upcoming-courses/2025/pgcert-in-applied-statistics-2026/

Further Information

For detailed information about the programme structure, admission requirements, and course content, visit:
https://science.sjp.ac.lk/sta/pgcert/

The Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Statistics provides a valuable opportunity to advance your analytical skills and strengthen your professional profile. Take the next step in your academic and career journey with USJ.