30th Anniversary of the Faculty of Medical Sciences
Back to Faculty ’23 : A Grand Reunion Marking the End of the 30th Anniversary Celebrations
The Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2023. One of the main events was the grand ‘Back to Faculty-2023’ that drew alumni from around the country and the world. The tradition, initiated in 2018 and revived under the Chair of the Organizing Committee, Prof. Hasini Banneheke’s guidance, saw a shift in organizational responsibilities to current students Mr. Chamod Dissanayake, Miss. Anjana Jayamuni and many other students from the 29th to 32nd batches.
The meticulous planning began in October 2022, culminating in a successful event on December 17 (Sunday), 2023, with the support of the Dean Prof. Manori Gamage, former dean Senior Professor Aloka Pathirana, Head of 30th anniversary committee Prof. Rasika Perera, and other academic staff members, namely Prof. Isha Premathilake, and Dr. Madura Jayawardhena as the advisory board and generous sponsors like George Steuart Health Pvt Ltd., Mother and Baby Care Consultation Pvt Ltd., and Unilever Sri Lanka. Special acknowledgment is extended to Dr. Madura Jayawardhena, Prof. Shrinath Chandrasekera, and Dr. Charitha Gallage for their valuable monetary contributions. Heads of Departments of Immunology & Molecular Medicine, Pathology, Physiology, Medical Education, Anatomy, and Parasitology also supported by allowing to use their resources for the event. Mrs. Warunika – Deputy Registrar and non-academic staff of the dean’s office (specially Mr. Nishantha, Mr. Darshana, Mr. Athula, and Mr. Sandaruwan) and the Department of Parasitology (Mrs. Chandrani and Mr. Sampath) provided their support immensely for the success of the event.
The day kicked off with a welcome ceremony which the Vice Chancellor of the university attended as the Chief guest. Alumni enjoyed morning tea, shared memories while going through the memory wall, and participated in fun activities, including an open mic session. The student-created Escape Room was a groundbreaking addition, a thrilling experience for all attendees.
In a unique twist, students organized a mock exam series called “Tis the Exam Season” for alumni, featuring a mock viva, a dynamic mock spot, and a neology factory (a mock written examination with SEQ and MCQ papers). The innovative approach showcased students’ creativity and redefined the traditional exam setting, fostering camaraderie and shared experiences.
After a day filled with engaging activities, alumni were treated to a well-deserved lunch in an elegantly transformed board room. The ambiance, adorned with red rose centerpieces and ambient lounge music, created a warm atmosphere for nostalgic conversations.
Despite persistent rain, cricket enthusiasts among alumni and students engaged in a memorable match, displaying skills and fellowship. The day concluded with “Enchanted Euphony,” a musical extravaganza featuring alumni and student performers, celebrating the faculty’s rich history.
Back to Faculty’23 left an indelible mark on the hearts of attendees, celebrating the Faculty of Medical Sciences’ history and strengthening bonds across generations. The harmonious blend of student, staff, and alumni performances ensured that the event would be remembered for years to come.
The Organizing committee would like to thank all those who helped in numerous ways to the success of the event.
Felicitation Ceremony
The Felicitation Ceremony 2023 of the Faculty of Medical Sciences, USJ was held on the, 17th of December in the Faculty premises.
This gilded event was organized by the 30th Anniversary Committee of the Faculty to felicitate retired members of the academic and non-academic staff as well as current staff who have served the Faculty for over 25 years and guided FMS, USJ through its short but illustrious history.
In attendance were multiple past deans of the Faculty as well as retired members of the academic and non academic staff. Alumni and current students were also present as spectators, as the event took place in concurrence with the “Back to Faculty 23” event organized by the 30th Anniversary Committee.
During the ceremony, 23 retired academic staff members and 18 current academic staff members were felicitated, alongside 25 retired non-academic staff and 26 current non-academic staff.
This event was about gratitude, and felicitating all that have helped the Faculty along its journey thus far.
The event concluded with multiple musical and aesthetic items by the current students of the Faculty. The days events were covered by the Nature and Photography Club of the Faculty.
