Opening of Utility Area, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya

The Utility Area for students and staff was declared open at Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya on 4 August 2021. The occasion was graced by Prof Nilanthi de Silva, Vice-chancellor, Mr KKK Dharmathilake, Registrar, Prof Janaki Hewavisenthi, Dean Faculty of Medicine and Dr Ruwan Suraweera, President of the Faculty of Medicine Alumni Association and the representatives of students. A limited number of invitees representing the academic and non-academic staff and students participated onsite at the occasion in compliance with health guidelines, and it was made open to all members of the staff and students by live-streaming via the Faculty Youtube channel.  

The Utility Area consists of a state of art unisex saloon, a laundry with six automatic washing machines, an exercising area with two hi-tech treadmills and recycle and reuse centre with a relaxation area. These facilities serve the long-felt needs of students as well as the staff of the faculty. All facilities will be delivered with the highest standards of quality and hygiene. The mechanisms are in place for the protection and sustainability of facilities. The services of the salon and the laundry will be provided for a nominal fee.

Under the guidance of the Dean, the project was initiated coordinated by Prof Madawa Chandratilake and the Department of Medical Education. Prof Rajitha Wickremasinghe and Prof Anuradhani Kasturiratne, Co-chairs of the COVID Response Committee, Prof Nirmala Perera, Chairperson of the Green Practices Committee, Dr Prasadth Fernando, Chairperson, Student Welfare Committee and Dr Ruwan Suraweera and the Alumni Association contributed to the project in many different ways. The executive and non-academic staff of the faculty provided their fullest support to make this endeavour a success.

These facilties will help enrich the educational environment for students.