Category Archives: News

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.

Dr. Thiyanga S. Talagala participated in the UNESCO-OWSD 7th General Assembly and the Third International Dialogue on Education and Development, held in Bogotá, Colombia, in November 2025. The third edition of the Dialogue was co-organized by the Government of Colombia (in its role as CELAC’s pro tempore presidency), the African Union, Obreal, the Colombian Association of Universities (ASCUN), and the Association of African Universities (AAU). Its goal was to generate innovative responses to the most pressing global challenges in Latin America, the Caribbean, Africa, and Europe. The event brought together participants from more than 55 countries.

At the OWSD 7th General Assembly, she presented her current research titled “Exploring Artistic Legacy: Analyzing Artifact Differences Across Kingdoms Using Machine Learning.” In her talk, she highlighted how machine learning can help uncover mathematical principles embedded in historical paintings and artifacts. She also explained how these approaches can make mathematics more accessible and engaging, inspiring learners to see the subject not just as abstract formulas but as a tool to explore patterns, art, and the world around them.