Written by : Rtr. Senuki Kavithma

“With unity in our purpose and kindness in our hearts, we come together to light up the world.”

Since its charter on September 1, 2011, the Rotaract Club of University of Sri Jayewardenepura has dedicated over a decade to community service. Marking 13 years of impactful contributions, the  Rotaract Club of University of Sri Jayewardenepura proudly held the 14th Installation Ceremony on 2nd of October, 2024, at the Sri Sumangala Auditorium. The event was organized by the Membership Development Committee with a talented Organizing Committee, and was conducted in-person, gathering an esteemed audience.

The event began with the arrival of our Guest of Honour, Assistant District Rotaract Chair for the Rotary International Year 2024-25, Rtn. Nimesha Jayamanne. The ceremonial lighting of the oil lamp symbolized the bright start of a new chapter.

Dignitaries then took their seats at the head table, and Sergeant-at-Arms of the Rotary International Year 2024-25, Rtr. Rashmi Niyangoda officially called the gathering to order.

Project Chairperson Rtr. Uvindu Wannakuwatte extended a warm welcome, following the formalities led by Rtr. Nithara Dias, Secretary for the 2024-25 RI year.

Outgoing Secretary Rtr. Dinithi De Silva then shared a comprehensive report on the accomplishments of the 2023-24 RI year.

After that, Immediate Past President Rtr. Yezeed Yehiya shared some insights on the club’s achievements and challenges that were imperative in helping the club reach higher levels. Then the service letters and the tokens of appreciation for the outgoing Board of Officials of the RI year 2023-24 were presented by Rtr. Yezeed to show the immense gratitude of the club to those who have contributed to the immense success of last year.

Incoming President for the RI year 2024-25, Rtr. Akila Weerasuriya, was then formally introduced and vested with the presidential collar by Rtr. Yezeed Yehiya, marking the transition. Following that, the new president addressed the gathering, expressing his vision for the future and his enthusiasm for the upcoming year.

The Executive Committee and the Board of Directors for the RI year 2024-25 was then introduced as follows:

Executive Committee:

– President – Rtr. Akila Weerasuriya

– Immediate Past President – Rtr. Yezeed Yehiya

– Vice President – Rtr. Hiruni Dissanayake, Rtr. Pethmi Ranawaka

– Vice President – Rtr. Pethmi Ranawaka

– Secretary – Rtr. Nithara Dias

– Assistant Secretary – Rtr. Nelani Gunawardhana

– Treasurer – Rtr. Sadini Silva

– Sergeant-at-Arms – Rtr. Arshaaq Amaan

– Editor – Rtr. Sandali Mendis

Board of Directors:

– Club Service Avenue – Rtr. Imandie Madanasinghe

– Community Service Avenue – Rtr. Manushi Rathnayake, Rtr. Burny Zaneeta, Rtr. Nithila Iriyagolla

– International Service Avenue – Rtr. Hafsa Omar, Rtr. Ifrah Riyas

– Professional Development Avenue – Rtr. Udari Perera, Rtr. Vindula Vidarshana

– Finance Committee – Rtr. Renish Perera, Rtr. Onasha Alagiyawanna

– Environmental Service Avenue – Rtr. Nimesh Fernando, Rtr. Yevindi Uthara

– Membership Development Committee – Rtr. Jayasi Jayodya, Rtr. Prabhani Rashmika

– Public Relations Committee – Rtr. Lochana Bandara, Rtr. Chamodh Jayalath

– Sports and Recreational Activities Avenue – Rtr. Chanuki Abeysinghe, Rtr. Bimalsha Samarasinghe

Applause filled the auditorium as the new board of officials took the stage, marking the beginning of their promising journey.

After this, the District Rotaract Representative for the RI year 2024-25, PHF Rtr. PP Shanel Mendis then addressed the gathering, followed by inspiring words from the Assistant District Rotaract Chair for the RI year 2024-25, Rtn. Nimesha Jayamanne, 

An entertaining musical performance lifted the atmosphere, followed by the grateful acknowledgement given to our sponsors, including Omega Line Pvt Ltd, Elephant House, La Perfumerie.lk, Iris Garden, FK Sports, and Zip Zip Clothing, for their invaluable support in making this event a success.

Tokens of appreciation were presented to distinguished guests, including DRR PHF Rtr. PP Shanel Mendis, Assistant District Rotaract Chair Rtn. Nimesha Jayamanne, Assistant District Rotaract Representatives Rtr. PP Sahan Gunasekara and Rtr. PP Gajaba Senarathne, Guide Club Coordinators Rtr. PP Anudi Karunarathne and Rtr. IPP Yasiru Athugaldura, Past Presidents of the club Rtr. Vidushith Jayasundara, Rtr. Madushan Dhananjaya, and Rtr. Yezeed Yehiya and Past Secretary Rtr. Dinithi De Silva.

The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Secretary Rtr. Nithara Dias, followed by a fellowship gathering to celebrate the achievements and a promising future!

Graphic Design by : Rtr. Ruveena Gamage