Symposia & Conferences

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Critical examination of sidathsangarawa through secondary sources
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Divakara, Anurin Indika; Jayasundara, C.C.
It is possible to observe the emergence of various language forms in response to contemporary social communication needs. The process of standardizing one form of language practice can be discerned through an examination of the social history of the language. Although it cannot be explicitly stated, it is evident that there was a diffusion of 'Siyabasa' intertwined with local mother tongues. This can be substantiated by analyzing the language usage in modern prose works, which indicates a trend toward the standardization of Tamil language usage. During a period when the Tad language form was considered a 'popular' expression and a societal norm, Sidatsangara stands out as a noteworthy instance in which the applied grammatical rules of the Sinhala language were influenced by the standardization of 'Jheka Pryoga' and 'Vyavaharashra.' This influence can be traced back to the poetic works originating from 'Siyabasa.' According to the content of relevant texts, such as the Sidathasagarava compiled by Pathiraja Piruwanpati Thero it offers insights into the scope of the grammar rules and special usages, drawing from secondary sources.
Promoting innovations in companies through novel mangement approches
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Illangarathne, S.M.R.K.
In the present age of information, fostering innovation stands as a pivotal factor for organizations seeking to enhance their performance. Within this study, we delve into the effective enhancement of business innovation within organizations by employing appropriate management strategies. Among the array of strategies devised and executed to facilitate innovation, we uncover certain methods that wield more direct and efficient impacts. These encompass unique and innovative HR practices, the establishment of set goals, inspiring creativity at the workplace, building a corporate environment, encouraging diversity and inclusion, changing organizational culture, and establishing teams to oversee innovations. The purpose of the study is to explore and analyze the effective upliftment of innovations in organizations by revealing the various management strategies. In the present era of information, innovation plays a vital role in the performance of organizations, and the study aims to reveal strategies that directly foster innovation. The objectives of the study are to evaluate the strategies to foster innovations within the workplace and analyze the impact of those strategies. As a study related to the promotion of innovations through the implementation of novel management strategies, the researcher needs to remain contextual rather than deducing from literature, whereby a qualitative approach is undertaken. The research paradigm is a constructivist study where a general qualitative data analysis is done. Findings include unique and innovative HR practices, the establishment of set goals, inspiring creativity at the workplace, building a corporate environment, encouraging diversity and inclusion, and changing organizational culture. Suggestions include investigating the allocation and management of resources, particularly funds, for various forms of innovation and catering to the pressing need to explore strategies that facilitate and promote innovation, particularly within small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These practices are derived from interviews with professionals at selected leading companies in Sri Lanka.
An investigative study to confirm that the pali language is composed of applied language features
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Perera, M.S.
Applied languages often contribute to the communication of feelings. But Pali is not a language used today to communicate personal feelings. However, the main aim and purpose of this research is to prove with evidence that the Pali language was a practical language in Indian society during the Buddha's time since the Tipitaka literature always contains living language features. Using the Buddhist primary and secondary sources, the applied language features in the Pali language are analysed by outlining various factors and aspects. Employed research methodology. The vitality of a language should not be evaluated solely based on its current or sustained use by a linguistic community. Instead, it can be argued that both the value and the vitality of a language depend on its potential to fulfill the needs of its users. Today, many modern European languages have gained a prominent status, mainly because of the subject matter written in them. Yet, if the mother tongue of a particular linguistic community enables its members to access the same knowledgebase, they are unlikely to give more prominence to a foreign language. For example, the native speakers of languages such as Chinese, Russian, and Japanese who have access to current scientific knowledge in their own languages do not tend to ascribe a great deal of prominence to the English language, despite its status in today. This example suggests that the knowledgebase available in a particular language has a significant impact on its vitality and status. For the same reason, Pali has been recognized as an advanced, expedient and powerful medium for communicating the profound and subtle aspects of the teachings of the Lord Buddha.
Terms and conditions: disability representation in newspaper coverage in Sri Lanka
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Hettiarachchi, Shyamani; Shareef, Nisha; Daskon, Lasanthi; Gunewardena, Niluka; Rathnayake, Isuru; Krishnaveni, K.
Historically, terminology has been a site of struggle, with the disability rights movement rejecting, embracing, and coining new terms, mirroring the changing landscape of the lived experiences of persons with disabilities and our deeper understanding of human rights. Word choice is deemed the embodiment of one’s positionality, with two broad camps of person-first and identity-first terminology emerging. The media, including the press, plays a significant role in informing the public and forming public opinion, making the language choice and sensitivity of portrayal important features of a newspaper article. This study aimed to critically review selected local newspaper articles in Sinhala, Tamil, and English featuring or referencing disability to explore the use of terms or word choice and conditions or representation. An online database search was conducted to identify relevant articles using a range of search terms. The articles identified were critically reviewed for language use and the portrayal of persons with disabilities using the key principles of simple thematic analysis and through the lens of the models of disability and critical disability theory. The key findings are the use of a plethora of terms to refer to disability, suggesting a lack of cohesion and positionality. The word choice used in the press articles ranges from derogatory and archaic to representative of current terms proposed by the local disability rights movement. The five emergent themes in the portrayal of persons with disabilities were to evoke humor/satire, highlighting inequality as recipients of discrimination, objects of pity, or as inspiration.There is a lack of consistency in the terms used within the local press, though there is a trend towards using less derogatory language. The conditions or representation is mixed, with evidence of the charity model and the social and human rights models to inform the portrayal of persons with disabilities. Both the terms and conditions/representation of persons with disabilities must be informed by the disability rights movement with close links advocated, as well as more disability representation in the field of journalism.
Language identity in amawatura and buthsarana
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Wanigasingha, C.B.; Aththanayaka, A.M.S.K.
This research critically examines the linguistic identity within the renowned literary works "Amavathura" and "Butsarana," situated in the historical tapestry of Sri Lankan literature, with a primary focus on unravelling the profound linguistic complexities during the Polonnaru period. Employing a comprehensive literature review methodology, the study draws on existing scholarly works, historical documents, and linguistic analysis. "Amavathura" emerges as a significant work, serving as a sermon characterized by assimilating a distinctive Pali rule. Gurulugomin's preference for a Pali-disciplined style, reminiscent of the Magadha language during the Anuradhapura period, sets "Amavathura" apart from the mixed Sinhala prevalent in the Polonnaru period. The stylistic choice, known as Matasilutu, involves the strategic interspersion of long and short sentences, drawing inspiration from the disciplined structure of Pali. Conversely, examining the language style in "Butsarana" reveals a growing inclination towards a mixed Sinhala style resonating with popular taste. As a conceptual catalyst, "Butsarana" employs a simple yet profound language accessible to common readers. This research aims to provide a nuanced understanding of language identity in the broader context of Sri Lankan literature, contributing to scholarly discourse on linguistic evolution. Anticipated outcomes include a detailed exploration of the prose styles influencing the development of mixed Sinhala. Recommendations derived from this study may guide further research into the intricate relationships between language, culture, and literature, fostering a deeper appreciation for the historical and linguistic nuances embedded in these significant literary works.
An experimental study of indigenous knowledge of terminology in relation to astrology
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Tissa, R. D. Ananda
It is important that one who has an important meaningful name shapes his life accordingly. That is the superior result of obtaining a name. In the study of naming histories, important details related to the birth and naming of Prince Sidhuhat are mentioned in Buddhist history. The influence of the language used is also important, as is the religious and cultural environment. Man's attention to language may have started with the beginning of the human race. There are several basic units related to the Sinhala language. A grammar related to naming methods among these units is especially found in the Sinhala speaking society. The influence of the Buddhist environment and related teachings are also based on it. Data collection related to this research is based on personal identification. Accordingly, the points recommended by occult science and astrology knowledge are studied in association with the subject works. Collecting data through primary and secondary sources by surveying Historical sources, chronicles, inscriptions and Sigiriya songs Based on the written literature, Education and other related literature. The collected data would be studied, edited and analyzed systematically using descriptive methods. It is expected that the results of this research would be useful for the studies of scholars, academics, and PG students, especially in the Indigenous Knowledge System (IKS) field of Sri Lanka. As the conclusions, ideas, and suggestions forwarded finally in this research project, they would be used appropriately in educational plans, research activities, Indigenous literature, preservation and conservation of secret teachings, making national policies of IKS, publishing industry and information dissemination in Sri Lanka.
A practical guide to preparing modern Chinese - Sinhala bilingual dictionaries
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Dhammadinna Thero, Nedalagamuwe
Until the application of modern translation methodologies with dictionaries, the process of communicating and translating from Chinese to Sinhala and vice versa was very primitive from the Anuradhapura era to the 20th century in Sri Lanka. Chinese dictionaries with Sinhala language explanations are not very common to the local Sinhala language users in Sri Lanka even now. This situation occurs as a huge barrier to the development of Sinhala-Chinese language-based communication. Sinhala's dominant society needs more efficient Chinese dictionaries to carry out positive activities in the process of sociocultural, academic, and political aspects. To fulfill these requirements, there must have been preliminary studies regarding for preparing modern Chinese dictionaries for local needs. In the process of this research, it was found that typical Chinese dictionaries with Chinese definitions are not suitable for local people in Sri Lanka, though they may have certain Chinese knowledge. They may prefer Chinese dictionaries with Sinhala definitions, as such dictionaries are more convenient to use. However, typical Chinese dictionaries are more user-friendly than locally prepared dictionaries because those books are improved with modern scientific methods. There is a need to prepare Chinese-Sinhala bilingual dictionaries to improve the Chinese teaching and learning process and upgrade the Chinese working environment in Sri Lanka.
Socio-cultural features of early ingenious documentary films (a study of a trio of selected documentaries)
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Deepthika, Abeysinghe
The documentary realistically presents reality, embodying contemporary society, culture, people's lives, the natural environment, and local identities. The beginning of local documentary filmmaking is often traced back to the 1935 film Song of Ceylon. In this study, we explore whether early documentaries exhibit socio-cultural characteristics. The purpose of this research is to examine the contribution of documentary films in portraying social and cultural characteristics. To do so, we conducted a content analysis of three selected documentaries: Song of Ceylon by Basil Wright, Hill Capital by Giulio Petroni and Nelumgama by Ralph Keene. In our analysis of social characteristics, we identified social patterns and methods used in these documentaries, specifically how they represented aspects of livelihood, education, transportation, communication, entertainment, politics, and administration in the early 20th century. In our investigation of cultural characteristics, we explored faiths and beliefs, religion and values, customs and rituals, art and language, clothing and food patterns, and lifestyles depicted in these films. As a result, it becomes evident that early documentary filmmakers emphasized portraying contemporary society, culture, village life, and natural beauty. These filmmakers prioritized showcasing the cultural characteristics of rural people and used documentary films to explain the gradual development of social characteristics. Through art influenced by religion and the representation of Sri Lankan culture through clothing and local lifestyles, these documentaries aimed to quantitatively present the local identity and capture the contemporary social nature of the time.
A comparative study of wood materials used in building construction (reference to maimathaya)
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Kalpani, K. Tharunya
When constructing a building, it is very important to think about its durability. The material used for it is important here. Accordingly, there should be an understanding of types of wood, use of wood, etc. "Maimataya", an vāstuvidyā source, includes methods on the use of wood. The poems are written using very simple Sinhala language and the culture of that time for ease of understanding of the people of the past. Does the matter of wood used in home design contain any scientific method? is the problem of this research. The main aim of this research is to highlight the inherent scientific nature of vāstuvidyā sources. The objectives are also to educate society to identify suitable wood and reduce counterfeit use. "Maimataya" contains the methods used in the construction of ancient houses. Among them, the methods used since then have been mentioned on the points to be taken care of while choosing some woods. When choosing a plant, the nature of the plant was concerned with its strength and included mystical facts that were easily understood by the people of the time. Due to these facts, there are misconceptions about vāstuvidyā today. There are those who view vāstuvidyā with skepticism, seeing it as a pseudoscience. They argue that its principles can limit scientific creativity and impose unnecessary restrictions on construction and design. Vāstuvidyā is therefore largely dismissed as superstition. The purpose of this research is to dispel that myth to some extent. Also gives good knowledge about wood used in construction. It also creates awareness in society about how to choose wood properly. The research method here is the qualitative research method. According to the overall study of the research, it can be concluded that the facts contained in vāstuvidyā have a scientific substance.
A study of the contribution of kathak dance tradition to the singing styles of “Bhajan, Tumri and Ghazal” in Hindustani music tradition
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Lakshan, A.W.A. Chameera
Applied languages often contribute to the communication of feelings. But Pali is not a language used today to communicate personal feelings. However, the main aim and purpose of this research is to prove with evidence that the Pali language was a practical language in Indian society during the Buddha's time since the Tipitaka literature always contains living language features. Using the Buddhist primary and secondary sources, the applied language features in the Pali language are analysed by outlining various factors and aspects. Employed research methodology.The vitality of a language should not be evaluated solely based on its current or sustained use by a linguistic community. Instead, it can be argued that both the value and the vitality of a language depend on its potential to fulfill the needs of its users. Today, many modern European languages have gained a prominent status, mainly because of the subject matter written in them. Yet, if the mother tongue of a particular linguistic community enables its members to access the same knowledgebase, they are unlikely to give more prominence to a foreign language. For example, the native speakers of languages such as Chinese, Russian, and Japanese who have access to current scientific knowledge in their own languages do not tend to ascribe a great deal of prominence to the English language, despite its status in today. This example suggests that the knowledgebase available in a particular language has a significant impact on its vitality and status. For the same reason, Pali has been recognized as an advanced, expedient and powerful medium for communicating the profound and subtle aspects of the teachings of the Lord Buddha.
Traditional conservation methods used to preserve indian palm leaf manuscripts: a literature review
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Nishanthi, Menaka
Manuscript preservation is an important subject for librarians, archivists, curators, and scholars who care about manuscripts. Palm-leaf manuscripts are more prone to deterioration due to their organic character, making preservation issues severe. Therefore, palm leaf manuscript preservation presents a significant challenge to custodians worldwide. The preservation of manuscripts of the palm leaf has been a major concern since the advent of technology. The objective of this study was to investigate the identification of traditional conservation methods and their use in India. This study used secondary selective Indian sources such as books, journal articles, conference papers, websites, reports of different projects, and case studies to find relevant literature. The literature was analyzed based on two time frames: the variety of palm leaves and the traditional methods used to preserve Indian palm leaf manuscripts. In addition, this study revealed that various traditional plants (herbs) were used to protect the Indian palm leaf manuscripts from insects, pests, and fungi. Dry leaves, dry leaf packs and their powder, and branches and roots of medicinal plants have been used to prevent the destruction of palm leaf manuscripts. Various oils obtained from medicinal plants have been preserved by applying them directly to the surface of manuscripts. As a result, herbal plants have been recognized as traditional preservation methods for the degradation of palm leaf manuscripts. Therefore, to preserve palm-leaf manuscripts for a longer period of time, traditional methods of preservation need to be used.
Sustainable organic farming using biofertilizers – option for synthetic fertilizers
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Kadigamuwa, C. C.; Mapa Mapa, S. T.
In the last few decades, synthetic chemical fertilizers have played a major role in enhancing agricultural productivity in limited agricultural lands to feed the increasing world population. At the same time, the massive usage of chemical fertilizers in the agriculture sector causes harmful impacts on both environmental ecology and human health with great severity. Therefore, enhancing crop productivity and feeding the people without adversely affecting the environmental quality is challenging for the agricultural industry. To overcome these issues, biofertilizers and biopesticides were introduced during the green revolution as a sustainable solution to reduce the usage of synthetic chemicals. Biofertilizers enclose living microorganisms that colonize the rhizosphere or the interior of the plants to stimulate its growth. When these applied to soils, seeds, or plant surfaces, they enhance the source of primary nutrients to the target crops or its accessibility. The beneficial microorganisms used as biofertilizers can interact with the crop plants and enhance their immunity, growth, and development. So, biofertilizers can be introduced with traditional organic fertilizers to enhance soil fertility for healthy plant growth. Even though biofertilizers are used all around the world, they are not much popular in Sri Lanka. Currently Sri Lanka is planning to promote organic agriculture and must introduce biofertilizers to our agricultural lands to fill the gap of synthetic chemical fertilizers. However, biofertilizers should use with extreme care in control levels to avoid unnecessary impacts in the future. For those authorities should provide the correct guidance to the biofertilizer users, manufacturers, and importers to get the maximum benefit to the Sri Lankan agriculture sector. This will lead to the safe use and to obtain maximum benefit from biofertilizer in sustainable organic farming over synthetic fertilizers.
Factors influencing rural school students’ disengagement in advanced level examination
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Silva, Sachini; Rathnayake, Rakshika
Education is an essential concept for the future existence of students in a country. Education prepares the child to fit into society by improving the child's skills, intelligence, and ability. Here, the school can be introduced as the most essential social utility of a society. However, it will be revealed that even though children have a compulsory education period, they ignore it and drop out of school midway. In the research on Factors Affecting Rural School Students' Abstention in Advanced Level Studies, the research problem of why rural school students is absent from advanced-level studies has been studied. The main objective of the research was to identify the factors that influence rural school students to stay away from studying for the Advanced level examination. And for this, mixed research methods were used for this research. The area that can be identified as rural in Medadumbara Education Division, belonging to Theldeniya Education Zone of Kandy District, is used for the research area. Secondary data is used for this research, and the data obtained from several schools along with Teldeniya Education Zone and previous research reports were used for this research. In this study, it was possible to identify that the economic situation due to the prolonged closure of schools due to the epidemic situation and the loss of interest in going to school influenced the children to drop out of school. As a proposal that can be presented for the situations contained in the conclusion of this research, the streamlining of school management and supervision activities, teaching using technical methods suitable for the new social system, educating adults, educating students about the importance of education, etc. Keywords: Education, Rural school, Advanced level student, Dropping out of the school,
BPM in healthcare: process analysis for a hospitel emergency department
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Wanigasingha, C.B.; Aththanayaka, A.M.S.K.
This review discusses the use of Business Process Methodology (BPM) in the healthcare industry, specifically focusing on its application to emergency care processes. With increasing demands for better services and limited resources, healthcare providers are turning to BPM strategies to optimize patient outcomes, improve efficiency, and reduce costs. Process modelling offers several advantages in healthcare, including standardized clinical practices, improved communication, and decision-making processes. Despite the availability of Business Process Management Systems (BPMS) for over two decades, healthcare organizations still need to effectively utilize information and communication technology (ICT) to provide better patient services. The review evaluates the results of using the BPM methodology on emergency care processes and concludes that it represents a valuable tool for improving their effectiveness and quality. The findings suggest that the BPM methodology positively impacts the management and optimization of emergency care processes.
A study of use of special effects in sri lankan film
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Wijesinghe, Ahesha; Ranepura, U.J.
Cinema can be called an artistic medium on the one hand and an industry on the other. There the audience is a very important factor. Cinema, known as the seventh art medium in the world, is a collective art. In a film production, one can observe how special effects and visual effects are used to create various scenarios that are essential to the related creative work. Special effect technics is used to impress of the spectator the effects practiced is cinema are called visual effect or visual decoration. Research problem is the use of special effects successful in the Sri Lankan Cinema? in here. The main objective is to study the special effects of the film making process. The purpose of this study is to focus the attention of the designers on creating a wide range of creative works by identifying the problems of special effects in Sri-Lankan filmmaking. For the convivence of the research, the “Bandanaya” film produced using special effects in Sri Lanka was selected by random sampling. Qualitative analysis was used as the research methodology. The data was collected from literature review, articles published on the internet and audience survey reports and analyzed in detail. From the data analysis, it was clear that the economic situation of the country affects the use of special effects in the Sri Lankan filmmaking process. Analysis of the data revealed that the economic downturn in the country as a third world country, is a major factor in the use of special effects in the Sri Lankan filmmaking process. The lack of a specialized scope for this and the lack of skilled craftsmen with an educational background make it clear that the use of special effects in Sri Lankan cinema is minimal. It was concluded that special effects in cinema should be used more for the development of local cinema as an industry compared to world cinema. Providing theoretical knowledge as well as practical study in this subject and providing education abroad in important. It was concluded that the special effects of cinema have been successful even due to the problematic situation in Sri Lanka. This study will be important for gaining knowledge and understanding on the use of special effects to uplift the film industry.
Analysing the impact of student engagement on learning outcomes in e-learning platforms: a systematic review of literature
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Wijayanayake, Janaka; Erandika, Lakshani; Prasadika, Jinendri
This paper explores the impact of student engagement on learning outcomes in E-learning platforms. It seeks to provide practical insights for educators and institutions as they navigate the digital education landscape. This systematic literature review adhered to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, utilising its methodology to identify and select the most relevant literature, resulting in the inclusion of 54 papers for review. Also, this analysis identified a notable gap in research related to the relationship between student engagement and learning outcomes in Sri Lanka. Prior studies, mostly conducted in European countries, might not be directly applicable to the Sri Lankan context due to differing infrastructure and unique student behaviours and learning expectations. The distinctiveness in Sri Lanka's infrastructure and students' learning attitudes makes the direct application of these findings from European studies challenging. Additionally, none of the existing studies in this area have utilised the Community of Inquiry (CoI) framework, which is a valuable tool for assessing student engagement in E-learning platforms. Also, as found in the literature, Information Technology (IT) students tend to possess higher technical expertise compared to students from other disciplines. Therefore, when conducting research in the context of Information Technology students, it is not a critical influencing factor to consider. This systematic review aims to bring together the existing literature and identify research gaps for context-specific investigations. By addressing these gaps and incorporating a Sri Lankan perspective, future researchers can further explore this context to make decisions in the field of digital education and contribute to the improvement of E-learning experiences in Sri Lanka.
Pothgul viharaya in the polonnaruwa kingdom of sri lanka with special reference to literature
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Upali Thero, D.
This study examines the historical significance of the Polonnaruwa Pothgul Viharaya in the Polonnaruwa Kingdom of Sri Lanka, with a particular focus on its role in fostering literature during that period. The Polonnaruwa Pothgul Viharaya, a renowned Buddhist temple or library, holds immense importance as a symbol of the kingdom's cultural and intellectual development. During the Polonnaruwa period, which spanned from the 11th to the 13th centuries CE, the literacy and literary achievements of the kingdom were greatly nourished by the influence of the Sanskrit language. The Polonnaruwa Pothgul Viharaya stands out as one of the prominent landmarks distinguishing this era from its predecessor, the Anuradhapura period. This library served as a vital center for education, where Buddhist monks and lay scholars who had mastered languages such as Sinhala, Pali, and Sanskrit composed numerous valuable academic books. The royal patronage for literature during this period further elevated the status of the library, as the kings recognized its significance in promoting intellectual and cultural growth within the kingdom. Perhaps one of the most noteworthy contributions of the Polonnaruwa Pothgul Viharaya was the establishment of libraries. These libraries played a pivotal role in the development and preservation of literature during the Polonnaruwa period. The availability of a wide range of texts and manuscripts facilitated research and intellectual exchange, leading to advancements in various fields of knowledge. Through a qualitative research method, the historical significance of the Polonnaruwa Pothgul Viharaya and its associated libraries has been examined. The findings highlight their crucial role in fostering literature and the intellectual pursuits of the time, shedding light on the cultural, educational, and social aspects of the Polonnaruwa Kingdom.
Determinants of Sri Lankan foreign policy: an in-depth analysis
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Amarasingha, Hashini N.
Foreign policy serves as a vital tool in securing the national interest of a country while determining the nature of inter-state relations among the nations. The foreign policy of Sri Lanka can be analyzed through the number of determinants that vary according to the situation. Thus, the main objective of this paper is to explore the key determinants and challenges of Sri Lankan foreign policy. Secondary sources such as e-books, newspapers, government reports, articles, books, and relevant authorities' websites were mainly used to collect data to address the research problem. Based on the key findings, key determinants of Sri Lankan foreign policy could be divided into two groups: internal and external factors. Most significantly, two-level game theory was utilized in theoretical perspectives to analyze the interconnection of those two determinants in framing Sri Lankan foreign policy. Thus, on the one hand, this paper will contribute to bridging the existing literature gap on determinants of Sri Lankan foreign policy and its challenges. On the other hand, this case study would encourage future researchers to conduct more relevant studies.
An investigation into the implementation of the modern university concept in the Buddhist Sangharamas concerning the academic development of the Anuradhapura period
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Siriwardena, A.S.; Wickramasinghe, N.G.I.M.
The historical exploration of educational institutions in the Anuradhapura era presents a remarkable parallel to the modern university system. While the concept of the university emerged in the Western world during the 9th to 12th centuries AD, ancient South Asia was home to institutions of learning that closely resembled this model. Notably, Nalanda, Jagaddala, and Taxila in India, Mahavihara, Abhayagiriya, and Jethavanarama in Sri Lanka, stand as exemplars of a rich educational tradition. This comparative study aims to identify the educational system prevalent in the ancient Anuradhapura era, specifically within the Mahavihara, Abhayagiriya, and Jethavanarama, by examining historical sources, including the Mahavamsya, Vansatthappakasiniya, Nikaya Sangraha, Fa-Hsien records, inscriptions, archaeological remnains of Anuradhapura city, and previous research reports. Mahavihara, as a stronghold of Theravada Buddhism, represented one fact of this system, while Abhayagiriya and Jethavanarama embraced a syncretic approach, drawing from both Theravada and Mahayana traditions. These ancient learning centres encompassed a broad spectrum of curricula, covering areas such as languages, religion, sciences, mathematics, and the arts. Recognitions and degrees were awarded to scholars, as demonstrated by names like Vagishwara, Kavichakravarti, Kaviraja, Vidyapati, and Kavikala Sarvajna, among others. The educational infrastructure was comprehensive, with provisions for laboratories, libraries, hospitals, Janthaghara (hostels for lay students), and almshouses. These sangharamas were more than just centers of religious learning; they were integrated institutions of holistic education. Moreover, they displayed an outward-facing orientation, engaging in international exchanges similar to their Indian counterparts, Nalanda, Valabhi, Taxila, and others, which held affiliations with countries like China and Java. In summary, this research explicitly confirms the existence of a cultured, university-level educational system in ancient Anuradhapura, anchored in the heritage of the Buddhist Sangharama’s. This historical perspective on education enriches our understanding of this era's intellectual, cultural, and scholarly dimensions.
Prospects of recycling used plaster of paris – short review
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Dunuwila, D.H.W.H.M.M.S.; Udayanga, W.D. Chanaka
Plaster of Paris (POP- CaSO4. 0.5H2O) is used for various applications, such as in the ceramic industry, where it serves as a crucial component in crafting moulds and cementitious materials used in construction projects such as wall plaster, wall boards, and gypsum blocks. The dental industry uses POP for mounting casts or models of oral tissues. POP is commonly used in orthopaedic applications to support fractures for broken bones, making positive casts/models for fabricating mobility assistive devices. Demand for POP is continuously increasing with the expansion of the mentioned industries. Notwithstanding this sizable market, POP disposal has become a serious concern. Conventional POP disposal techniques, such as burning and dumping in landfills, negatively impact the environment by causing groundwater contamination, air pollution, disturbance of habitats, and land use issues. In this regard, this review focuses on the possible recyclability of POP. POP recycling is typically done by calcining used POP at relatively higher temperatures (150-1800C), where dehydration of used POP (CaSO4.2H2O) becomes recycled POP (CaSO4.0.5H2O). Many other factors, such as temperature and curing time, particle size, sample size, POP-to-water ratio, method of recycling, and secondary additives, affect the quality of recycled POP. Recycling reduces the need for virgin materials, conserves natural resources, and minimizes the environmental impact of extraction and production, encouraging the circular economy.