Symposia & Conferences

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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.
A bibliographical commentary on the literature based on kataragama, the sacred place of sri lankn dovotees
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Senevirathna, R.A.P.S.
Kataragama shrine can be considered a prominent religious place located in the southern part of Sri Lanka. Researchers, scholars, and writers who are exploring the knowledge of subjects such as this shrine and its related rituals, customs, faiths, and beliefs can be seen focusing on it. The main objective of this study is to identify the literature written in this area. Also, to classify the literature written about the Kataragama sacred site and to create a bibliography containing bibliographic information about it. Other purposes of this commentary are to inform the reader of the quality, relevance, and accuracy of the sources cited. Mainly this research is based on secondary data. Libraries, printed books, websites, and catalogs were the sources of information gathering. Through data analysis, 59 books written in this regard were selected. Among the works that have been written about Kataragama, most of the books have been written about Kataragama shrine, Kataragama God, rituals, customs, and beliefs. Works published in Sri Lanka on Kataragama as well as works published in other countries are included. Among the authors who have written books about Kataragama, there are not only Sri Lankan authors living in foreign countries but also foreign authors. A large number of works written in Sinhala and English can be seen and not only in the libraries of this country, but also in the libraries of foreign countries, the works written about Kataragama can be seen. Since these contain information including Indigenous knowledge such as sacrificial methods, rituals, beliefs, and beliefs, it can be suggested that they should be preserved for their conservation and future generations.
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.
Characterization from roman mythology: based on “Yavana Purana”
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Kumari, H.M.S.I.; Ranasinghe, R.M.C.
Identifying a clear distinction between folktales, legends and myths is difficult. The ancient society's beliefs were fundamental to the creation of such stories. Unlike today, the people of that time spent their lives abundantly in harmony with the environment. There are many occasions when ancient man became curious about various phenomena arising from the environment. Ancient people hypothesized that there was something power behind such events in the environment. This naturally led to the emergence of myths, giving a supernatural power to various emotional states and various stages, experiences, and activities of human life. This influence on the poet carried over to the creation of epic poetry. “Ovid's Metamorphoses” is one such epic literary work. The primary purpose of this study is to study the human characteristics of Roman myths. To achieve that purpose, Deegoda Piyadasa’s "Yavana Puranaya" is a Sinhalese adaptation of "Ovid's Metamorphoses" is used as the secondary data source. The research method is a qualitative study method that belongs to the anthropological research method. What kind of characters are shown in myths? Are they all-time facts? Are the research problems here? Ovid visualizes the strength and depth of human relationships through different characters, as well as in love, separation, disagreement, blindness and brutality. The book led Ronald Seth to call 'Ovid' a 'psychologist' and it is clear that the myths of “Metamorphoses” have also influenced psychoanalyst Freud's 'ego complex' and 'narcissism complex'. From this it can be concluded that even though the person physically changes with the ages, the moods highlight common characteristics for the past as well as the present and the future through myths. “Metamorphoses” is one of the strongest pieces of literature that bears witness to it.
A comparative study of titles in the Badulu pillar inscription through secondary sources
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Divakara, Anurin Indika; Rubasinghe, Anusha Sajeewanie
This study investigates the professionals delineated within the Badulu Pillar inscription, focusing on analyzing their designated responsibilities and contextual applications. The research delves into an analysis of the nomenclature of these positions as portrayed in secondary sources and elucidates their associated responsibilities. The primary objectives of this research encompass two key facets: augmenting information from secondary sources pertinent to the positions under scrutiny and conducting an analytical assessment, culminating in the presentation of insightful perspectives and recommendations. The methodology employed for this study is derived from the text of the Badulu Pillar inscription featured in Epigraphia Zeylanica. The research applies an analytical lens drawing from a spectrum of secondary sources, predominantly academic dictionaries and scholarly texts. Maharaju, the King, Apa, Mahaya, Dadanayake, Gathan, Mandradin, Mahagramayan, Ulvadukathakkaru, Gama awadiya Atadena and the Varada Atadena were the focal points of this exploration. The study extensively examines the descriptions of these positions outlined in the Badulu Pillar inscription, providing an in-depth analysis of their responsibilities, culminating in findings and conclusive insights.
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.
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.
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.
The division of labour involvement is an ultimate result of the production of palm leaf manuscripts? In relation to the Sri Lankan palm leaf manuscripts
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Alahakoon, Champa N. K.
The traditions of writing on palm-leaves in Ceylon began in the 1st century AD, making a highly successful period. However, these materials couldn’t be used in their natural state for writing and required preparation involving the collaboration of skilled craftsmen such as ironsmiths, blacksmiths and carpenters. Palm-leaf manuscript must be consisted of four components: wooden boards (pot kambā), written palm leaves (pat iruwa), string (huya) and the ornament attached to the string (sakiyā). In order to complete these four components, the support of many people is needed. Creating palm-leaf manuscript was a complex skill to master, unlike modern printing of exercise books. This study aimed to explore the Production of Palm-Leaf manuscripts and the intricate labour Division process. The desk research method was utilised with existing documents and previous research over a particular topic. Through this study, it was tried to collect the information from the beginning of preparation of palmleaves and the internal labour contribution until the completion of manuscripts by considering the labour force, equipment, arts and skills that were used to preparing the palm-leaves for writing purposes. According to the published literature, attention has primarily given to the preservation of palm-leaf, the act of writing, their characteristics, available collections, catalogues of palm-leaf manuscripts, and the temples and locations where these manuscripts are stored. However, there is a dearth of writing documentation and discussion regarding the various art, tools, technological aspects, and labour involvement of the palm-leaf manuscript creation process. More specifically, the preparation of the manuscripts, the decorative aspects, the finishing touches, and the diverse roles of artisans and labourers in the production process also have been highlighted as areas that lacked sufficient documentation and discussion. Through this research, a more comprehensive understanding of the rich tradition of palmleaf manuscript production in the country was pursued.
An ethnological study on god vahala concept and vahala dance in devolmaduwa shanthikarmaya
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Subhash, G.K.
Devolmaduwa Shanthikarya is a ritual ceremony that is performed in the law country areas of Sri Lanka. Wahala Devi or Dadimunda Devi is a locally popular deity who is worshiped around the country. The main purpose of this study is to identify the interrelationship between the God Wahala and Devolmaduwa Ritual Ceromony from an ethnographical perspective. Other objectives are to identify the specialty of Wahala Dance and to identify the concept of Wahala Deity. The research problem is how the Concept of Wahala Deity is related to the Law Country Devolmaduwa Ritual Ceremony. Field observations, interviews were used as the primary source, books and internet sources were used as the secondary source. As revealed by this research, the concept of God Wahala has been known in the community as an extremely powerful deity. There is a recognition of this deity as a deity as well as lord of demons. The elements of Wahala dance have been created to highlight the concept of God Wahala. There is a strong belief that the artiste who performs the Wahala dance, dances in the attribution of Lord Dadimunda. The entire dance symbolically represents the power of Lord Wahala. Thus, it can be concluded that there is a special relationship between Wahala dance in Dewolmaduwa and the concept of God Wahala. Accordingly, Wahala dance and the concept of God Wahala can be seen as important cultural concepts in Sri Lankan culture.
Examing the research landscape and identifying gaps in digital reference services in sri lankan academic libraries: insights from literature
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Bandara, B.E.S.; Hindagolla, B.M.M.C.B.
Digital Reference Service (DRS) is generally identified as the provision of online mediated reference services by specialized personnel using the internet and computer technologies to communicate with the users and the staff without being physically present at the libraries. The main objective of this study is to identify the core areas discussed in the literature regarding Digital Reference Services and the research gap in the context of Sri Lankan academic libraries. The Web of Science, Emerald, and Google Scholar databases were searched with the identified keyword combinations to achieve this purpose, and the study included 39 studies selected from a total of 788 articles by following the methodology set out in the PRISMA statement. These 39 articles were selected as the primary dataset for the research, and the researchers have followed the review of the studies method to obtain the results. The study is qualitative in nature. Data gathered was analyzed using the frequency of the themes, and it found that there were no research studies conducted on digital reference services in Sri Lanka that mainly discussed reference services in general. Hence, this study recommends conducting studies on digital reference services to cater to the demands of net generation users by minimizing the challenges identified through the literature. It will be most important as a proactive decision when facing pandemic situations like COVID-19 as a readiness approach.
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.
An exploring study of bibliotherapy in a library setting: historical development and future directions
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Harshani, K. R. N.
This article offers a thorough examination of the idea of bibliotherapy and specific recommendations for its efficient application in libraries. Bibliotherapy is a subset of expressive therapy that methodically uses books to assist clients in resolving mental, physical, emotional, developmental, or social issues. A complex idea, bibliotherapy is crucial to understanding the core of the library profession in the twentyfirst century. The research methodology is predicated on desk research of working correspondence and educational documentation conducted internally and online. An in-depth analysis of the smooth integration of bibliotherapy into library settings is provided in this study, along with insightful recommendations for its practical use. Provide a thorough grasp of the idea and use of bibliotherapy in library settings through this research, highlighting the critical role that librarians play. Research in the field to address one research question: What proof is there in the literature to explain how libraries have gone about offering bibliotherapy? Furthermore, researchers emphasize the many benefits of integrating bibliotherapy programs into libraries, emphasizing the pressing need for enhanced awareness and collaborative efforts to establish bibliotherapy as a widely recognized and easily accessible service within libraries. This collective endeavor undoubtedly contributes to the overall well-being of library users.
Exploring the nexus: macroeconomic factors and reported money laundering cases – a cross-sectional analysis in Sri Lanka
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Tilakasiri, K.K.; Sivaguru, Dinesh
In today's global landscape, money laundering and terrorist financing present formidable challenges. This study investigates potential correlations between Sri Lanka's macroeconomic factors—specifically GDP, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)—and reported money laundering cases. Leveraging qualitative data from the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) and employing linear regression analysis, the research adopts a qualitative approach to unravel the nuanced connections between economic conditions and financial crimes. The primary purpose of this research is to identify and understand the relationships between Macroeconomic Factors and Reported Money Laundering Cases. The findings hold the potential to provide valuable insights for policymakers, financial institutions, and law enforcement, contributing to the development of more effective anti-money laundering strategies and policies tailored to Sri Lanka's unique context. The anticipated findings aim to shed light on the intricate interplay between GDP, FDI, and money laundering instances, offering a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by Sri Lanka. Such insights could pave the way for more informed decision-making in combating financial crimes. The implications of this study extend beyond academia, with practical applications for shaping policies and strategies that address the specific dynamics of money laundering in Sri Lanka.
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,
Global transtion to online learning with the covid-19 pandemic and academic stress among undergraduate students in Sri Lanka
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Wickramasekara, H.; Gonapaladeniya, G.D.M.C.
COVID-19 made a significant impact on the entire world, including Sri Lanka as well. This affected the world's economy, and the need for a public health sector was crucial to control the pandemic. Strict measures were taken to control the spread of infection, such as social distancing, wearing masks, frequent hand washing, etc. Sri Lanka was severely hit by the pandemic. Besides strict infection control measures, the government decided to shut schools and higher education institutes and implement travel restrictions, facing a challenge to teachers and students to continue teaching-learning activities. That opened a new path towards online education in the Sri Lankan education system. Various online tools emerged, such as Moodle, Zoom, Google Classroom, YouTube, etc, to facilitate online learning. A number of benefits were seen, but despite the benefits, a few challenges were also there. Connectivity issues, initial technological difficulties and dissatisfaction among some students and teachers were the common negative points encountered. However, as time passed, both schools and universities adapted to online learning during the pandemic, and it continued after that. Academic stress is a frequent issue among university students, and there has been a rise in it due to the rapid shift from physical to online learning. So coping strategies should be practised, such as taking breaks, practising self-care, connecting with friends and family through social media, and joining online communities. Although COVID-19 affected global education massively, online learning is a near-perfect alternative to the continuing education system. Academic stress is one challenge faced during online education, and appropriate coping strategies will be necessary to overcome them.
Harmony at home: exploring the influence of Buddhist teaching on modern family dynamics for a pleasurable family life
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Chullanaga Thero, Godamune
This research paper is to investigate the influence of Buddhist teachings on contemporary family dynamics and their role in cultivating a more pleasurable family life. The main objective of this research is to examine how Buddhist teachings affect modern family dynamics, seeking to identify the ways in which these teachings contribute to creating a more harmonious and enjoyable family environment. This study follows a desk research methodology, involving a comprehensive search across scholarly articles, databases, peer-reviewed journals, E-sources and relevant literature. Selection criteria were established to include publications focusing on the impact of Buddhist teachings on family dynamics in contemporary society. Thematic analysis was conducted, synthesizing information from selected sources to understand the relationship between Buddhist principles and modern family life. The literature review revealed several key themes regarding the influence of Buddhist teachings on modern family dynamics. These teachings, including mindfulness, compassion, and interconnectedness, were found to significantly impact family relationships by promoting effective communication, conflict resolution, and emotional well-being. Moreover, the literature suggested that the application of these teachings can contribute to a more joyful and harmonious family life. Based on the findings, it is evident that Buddhist teachings play a substantial role in shaping modern family dynamics. The study recommends further exploration into the practical applications of these teachings within family contexts, emphasizing the potential for enhancing family well-being and fostering harmonious relationships. This study contributes to understanding how Buddhist teachings positively influence modern family dynamics, paving the way for potential applications to promote pleasurable and harmonious family lives.
Historical study of book publishing in the kotte era
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Rubasinghe, Anusha Sajeewanie
The basic elements of writing and paper printing led the world to book publishing. Although these three things have become the basic elements of the publishing industry today, it is clear when examining the facts about broadcasting in the publishing industry that it took a long time for each of those elements to become the present state. Book publishing is the result of all the work, from writing a manuscript to publishing it. Although in the early days, it was operated without a purely commercial objective, now it is accepted that it is operated purely with a commercial objective. The main purpose of this research is to analyse the historical situation of book publication in the Kotte era. Data was collected with the help of secondary sources and analysed using the historical analysis method. The conclusions obtained after analysing the data can be presented as follows. The importance of the publishing industry in the Kotte era is the emergence of a group of scholars who had an incredible ability to write literature in the Kotte era. Among them, the academic service of Vidagama Maithri Thero can be highlighted. Also, the fact that the chief ruler of the country, the king, was also aware and understanding of literature and engaged in book publishing led to the development of book publishing during this era. Through research findings, it can be testified that there were daily copyists apart from the authors. They served as clerks, and their work was invisible and tremendous. This research confirmed the basic process inherent in publishing, copywriting and distributing in this era
The impact of folk poetry on traditional communication: a review of Sri Lankan Janakaviya
(The Library, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2023) Hansani, K. P. Erandima; Rathnayake, R. M. Auchithya
This research delves into the captivating world of Sri Lankan Janakaviya, a traditional folk poetry form, to uncover its profound impact on communication and cultural preservation within the rich tapestry of Sinhala culture. The study explores the historical roots, thematic diversity, and unique characteristics of Janakaviya, emphasizing its role as a medium for conveying the customs, rituals, and experiences of everyday life among the early Sinhalese people. It also investigates the influence of modernization on the practice and appreciation of Janakaviya, particularly among younger generations, who are increasingly disconnected from the rural and agrarian traditions it represents. The findings reveal that Janakaviya serves as a vibrant repository of cultural heritage and plays a pivotal role in fostering a sense of community and moral guidance. Its use of metaphor, repetition, and vivid imagery, deeply rooted in Buddhism, contributes to its unique nature. Moreover, the study uncovers various preservation and revival efforts aimed at safeguarding Janakaviya for future generations, including documentation, integration into formal education, and community initiatives. It highlights the perspectives of practitioners and community members regarding the significance and relevance of Janakaviya in contemporary society. In a rapidly evolving world, Janakaviya stands at a crossroads, facing challenges of modernization and changing lifestyles. However, its cultural significance and communication dynamics make it a valuable and irreplaceable part of Sri Lankan heritage. This research underscores the importance of recognizing and revitalizing Janakaviya to ensure its continued cultural identity and communication enrichment in Sri Lanka.
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.