The newly established study area, attached to the Medical Library of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, was officially declared open on January 28, 2025. This facility was developed as part of the faculty’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure and enriching the educational experience of its students. The faculty upholds the belief that producing doctors with a strong academic foundation and well-rounded attributes is essential to preserving the values of the free education system in Sri Lanka.

At the invitation of the Dean, two distinguished former academics, Emeritus Professor in Surgery, Prof Ranil Fernando and, a former Professor of Paediatrics, Dr Asvini Fernando, generously donated over Rs. 2 million to develop this facility. This contribution stands as a testament to their enduring support for student welfare. Both these distinguished academics dedicated decades of service to the faculty, instilling academic excellence, humanistic values, and professionalism in generations of students.

The study area was inaugurated by Professor Ranil Fernando and Dr. Asvini Fernando, in the presence of Senior Professor Nilanthi de Silva, Vice Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya and Professor Madawa Chandratilake, Dean of Faculty of Medicine, Dr Chilran Jayasundara, Librarian of the University of Kelaniya who attended to honor the generous contribution of the two esteemed academics. The event was also graced by Heads of Departments, academics, the Senior Assistant Registrar, the Deputy Bursar, non-academic staff members, and student representatives. This project is part of a broader initiative to improve faculty facilities for students by leveraging external funding.

 

Dr Lakmini Marasinghe, the Senior Assistant Librarian of the medical library, its staff, the civil work superintendent, and the works supervisors of the faculty extended their fullest support in making this study area a reality. The Vice-chancellor and the Dean extended their heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed.