Three First-Class graduates from the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, have earned six Gold Medals in recognition of their outstanding academic achievements. Arul Raj Kavinesh Goutham, W. W. Thisarani Bhagya Mendis, and Dinusha Elvitigala have distinguished themselves through their academic performance, complemented by contributions to research, student leadership, and university life.
Arul Raj Kavinesh Goutham: Four Gold Medals for Excellence in Chemistry
Arul Raj Kavinesh Goutham, who graduated with First-Class Honours in Chemistry in May 2026, received four Gold Medals at the University’s Convocation in October 2026. These awards recognise his overall academic performance and achievements across the major disciplines of chemistry:
- Professor Tuly de Silva Gold Medal — for obtaining the highest overall Grade Point Average (GPA) at the B.Sc. Chemistry (Honours) Degree Examination.
- Chemical Industries Colombo Ltd. Gold Medal — for obtaining a First Class Pass with the highest marks at the B.Sc. (Honours) Degree in Chemistry Final Examination held in February and March 2026.
- Professor A. M. Abeysekara Gold Medal — for obtaining a First Class Pass with the highest GPA for Organic Chemistry courses in the third and fourth years of the B.Sc. (Honours) in Chemistry Degree Examination held in February and March 2026.
- Professor W. S. Fernando Gold Medal — for obtaining a First Class Pass with the highest GPA for core and compulsory Physical Chemistry and Inorganic Chemistry courses in the third and fourth years of the B.Sc. (Honours) in Chemistry Degree Examination held in February and March 2026.
Alongside his academic accomplishments, Goutham completed his undergraduate research under the supervision of Professor Laksiri Weerasinghe. His project investigated the synthesis of tetrahydroisoquinolines using a graphene oxide-catalysed one-pot oxidative–Pictet–Spengler cascade.
Goutham also serves as President of the Chemical Society, having previously held the position of Vice President. His contributions include organising industry-oriented programmes, practical workshops, and student initiatives that connect chemistry with industry and society, while encouraging scientific engagement and professional development among undergraduates.
W. W. Thisarani Bhagya Mendis: Recognising Academic Distinction
W. W. Thisarani Bhagya Mendis, a First-Class graduate of the B.Sc. (Honours) in Chemistry programme, received the Dr. Siromi Samarasinghe Gold Medal for obtaining the highest GPA at the selection for the B.Sc. (Honours) Degree programme. The award’s eligibility criteria include achieving a GPA of at least 2.00 in both subsidiary subjects and all Chemistry courses at the first attempt.
Bhagya’s academic background brings together Chemistry, Genetics, and Molecular Biology, reflecting her interest in interdisciplinary science and the molecular basis of biological processes.
Her involvement in university life extends beyond the classroom. She served as Junior Treasurer of the Genetics and Molecular Biology Society and Finance In-Charge of the Adventure Club. Through her involvement in AIESEC, she also contributed to public relations, event organisation, and community initiatives. These experiences provided opportunities to exercise leadership, collaborate with fellow students, and contribute to the wider university community.
Dinusha Elvitigala: Outstanding Achievement in Industrial Chemistry
Dinusha Elvitigala, a First-Class graduate of the B.Sc. (Honours) in Industrial Chemistry programme, received the Dr. Chris H. Senanayake Gold Medal for obtaining the highest GPA at the B.Sc. Industrial Chemistry (Honours) Degree Examination.
Her achievement reflects sustained academic excellence throughout her undergraduate studies. With an educational background spanning Industrial Chemistry and Psychology, Dinusha has also pursued interests across distinct fields of knowledge.
An active contributor to student organisations, Dinusha serves as Secretary of the Chemical Society. She has also contributed as Education Director of the Gavel Club and as a member of the Rotaract Club’s Editorial Crew. Her involvement encompasses student leadership, communication, professional development, and community engagement.
The Department of Chemistry congratulates Goutham, Bhagya, and Dinusha on their well-deserved achievements and wishes them continued success in their future endeavours. Their accomplishments celebrate both academic excellence and meaningful participation in university life, offering inspiration to future generations of chemistry students.