Blog

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Physics Society at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, held on November 16, 2023, was a momentous occasion graced by the presence of our esteemed patron, Dr. A.R. Kumarasinghe, and the Head of the Department (HoD), Prof. N. G. S. Gamage. The event unfolded within the walls of the Physics Lecture Theatre, providing a fitting backdrop for discussions on society’s achievements and future prospects.

The Physics Society extends sincere gratitude to Dr. Wasanthi De Silva, the outgoing senior treasurer, for her dedicated service and contributions to the society. As we bid farewell to her, we warmly welcome Prof. Duleepa Pitigala as the new senior treasurer. His appointment marks a promising transition, and we anticipate his valuable contributions to society’s financial leadership.

To the newly appointed committee, may this chapter be one of inspiration and unity. Led by Prof. Duleepa Pitigala, we have full confidence in your ability to guide the society with diligence and innovation. May your collaborative efforts foster curiosity, engagement, and camaraderie within the physics community at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. As you assume your roles, may you encounter exciting opportunities for growth, make lasting contributions to the academic atmosphere, and lead the Physics Society to greater heights. Best wishes for a successful and fulfilling tenure ahead!

A young astronomer from Sri Lanka, Methmini Munasinghe, has returned from a life-changing experience at the International School for Young Regional Astronomers (ISRYA) held in Kunming, China. The program, organized by the prestigious Yunnan Observatories of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Yunnan University, took place from December 5th to 20th, 2023, and brought together aspiring astronomers from across South and Southeast Asia.

ISRYA provided a unique platform for young minds like Methmini to deepen their knowledge in various astronomical fields, ranging from the intricacies of binary stars and exoplanets to the pulsating rhythms of stars and the explosive drama of cataclysmic variables. Hands-on sessions on photometry and spectroscopy further equipped participants with practical skills crucial for astronomical research.

Returning to Sri Lanka, Methmini carries with her not just a certificate of participation but a treasure trove of knowledge, newfound confidence, and the unwavering spirit of collaboration fostered by ISRYA. Her experience serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring astronomers in the region, demonstrating the transformative power of international exchange and the boundless potential of young minds reaching for the stars.

Methmini’s gratitude extends to the organizers of ISRYA for crafting such an exceptional program. She expresses heartfelt appreciation to her department head, Prof. N.G.S. Shantha Gamage, her supervisor, Prof. (Mrs.) M. L. C. Attygalle, her external supervisor, Dr. Janaka Adassuriya, and all the lecturers who provided guidance and encouragement throughout the journey.

The Physics Department of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura has received a generous donation of a smartboard from its alumni members.

The smartboard was installed in the Activity Room and will be used for teaching physics courses and conducting workshops and seminars. The smartboard will enhance the quality of education and facilitate smart learning among the students and staff.

The Physics Department expresses its gratitude to the alumni members for their support and contribution.

Panchanie Karunaratne, a 4th-Year multi-talented undergraduate pursuing a special degree in Physics, received the prestigious BESA award of the Faculty of Applied Sciences for the year 2023. Amid the fierce competition, our young star’s talents rose above the other contestants, capturing the judges’ attention and ultimately securing the award.

The BESA award is dedicated to the most optimistic and brilliant all-rounder excelling in academics, sports, extracurricular, and co-curricular activities from each faculty. It is part of the J’pura Employability Skills Awards (JESA), the ultimate platform for honoring the accomplishments of young, talented undergraduates, organized by the Career Skills Development Society (CSDS). This year’s award ceremony was held on December 15, 2023, at the Golden Rose Hotel Boralesgamuwa, where a tapestry of exceptional talents was unveiled and celebrated.