The Library University of Colombo Sri Lanka

𝐀 𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬, 𝐫𝐞𝐟𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐋𝐢𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐲

𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝗿𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗰𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗰 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝗜 𝗲𝗿𝗮: 𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗱𝗼 𝘄𝗲 𝗱𝗿𝗮𝘄 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲?

A discourse on "Redefining Academic Integrity in the AI era: Where do we draw the line?" was held on 24th May 2026 from 10.00 AM to 02.00 PM at the Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Colombo. The program was organized and coordinated by Dr. N.M. Karannagoda, Senior Assistant Librarian, the Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS) Library. The discourse was moderated by Mr. T. Ramanan, Senior Assistant Librarian, Main Library, University of Colombo. The program was conducted in the light of strengthening the discussions on the AI policy.

The event was graced by Professor Indika Mahesh Karunathilake, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Colombo. Additionally, Professor Vajira Dissanayake, Dean of Medical Faculty, Professor H.M. Nihala Hennayake, Dean of FMF and FGS, Dr. Kalpana Manatunga, Acting Librarian, and Professor Chaminda Padmakumara, Director of Studies, FGS.
Professor Karunathilake delivered the Chief Guest’s speech to the audience and appreciated the initiative by the FGS. Professor Hennayake and Dr. Manatunga also addressed the gathering with their visionary thoughts.

The discourse was then ceremonially started with the following renowned academics: Professor K. P. Hewagamage, University of Colombo School of Computing (UCSC); Professor Pavithra Kailasapathy, Faculty of Management and Finance (FMF), University of Colombo; Senior Professor (Chair) Arosha S. Adikaram, Faculty of Management and Finance (FMF), University of Colombo; and Professor K.S. Lasith Gunawardana, Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce, University of Sri Jayewardenepura.

Professor Hewagamage emphasized on the exploitation of AI tools with due responsibility, which he sternly believes emerges from one’s commitment to academic integrity without compromising human intelligence. Professor Kailasapathy shared her insights on danger of adopting indiscriminate application of AI tools, thus striking a healthy balance in assessment. Meanwhile, Chair Professor Adikaram pointed out the challenges in maintaining the quality of scholarly communications and review processes amidst the cascade of AI tools. Professor Gunawaradana shed light on the importance of developing a strong AI literacy module from the beginning of any academic program. Overall, all the panelists are consensual on embracing the changing technological advancement, hence, AI use is inevitable in the modern teaching and learning activities in universities in Sri Lanka. Therefore, AI literacy modules and policy framework shall address the degree of acceptable AI use among researchers, detection mechanisms to be implemented, and responsibilities of teachers and students. At the end of the discourse, participants enthusiastically engaged with the panelists by asking questions in relevant areas. The event was successfully concluded with a token of appreciation to the panelists and participants.

𝔸𝕣𝕥𝕤 𝕆𝕣𝕚𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕋𝕒𝕝𝕜 𝕥𝕠 𝕒𝕟 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕣𝕥 𝟚𝟘𝟚𝟞

𝔸𝕣𝕥𝕤 𝕆𝕣𝕚𝕖𝕟𝕥𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕋𝕒𝕝𝕜 𝕥𝕠 𝕒𝕟 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕣𝕥 𝟚𝟘𝟚𝟞

The Main Library of the University of Colombo successfully hosted the “Arts Orientation” and “Talk to an Expert 2026” programme on 04th May 2026 from 1.00 p.m. to 4.00 p.m. at the Main Library and the Faculty of Arts, welcoming nearly 800 newly enrolled Arts students to university life.

The event was organized with the objective of introducing students to the wealth of academic resources, services, and guidance available through the library and the Faculty of Arts. Adding value to the programme, 39 subject experts, including academics of the Faculty of Arts and the Library engaged with students, offering valuable insights into academic pathways, subject resources, and effective learning practices.

Following the inauguration ceremony, an informative introductory session on library services and facilities was conducted at the New Arts Theatre by S. M. Adhikari, Senior Assistant Librarian/Arts & Research Services. The session provided students with an overview of the library’s collections, digital resources, research support services, and learning spaces designed to enrich their academic experience.

The “Talk to an Expert 2026” segment created a lively and interactive atmosphere where students had the opportunity to directly connect with academics and library professionals, seek guidance, and clarify their academic concerns. The programme not only familiarized students with the university’s learning environment but also highlighted the vital role of the Main Library as a hub for knowledge, research, and student support.

The students participated in a library tour, and the event concluded successfully with positive engagement, marking a meaningful beginning to their academic journey at the University of Colombo.

𝐋𝐢𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐚 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔
Continuing its annual tradition, the University of Colombo Library celebrated the Sinhala and Tamil New Year on 22nd April 2026 in a warm and festive atmosphere. The programme included the customary lighting of the oil lamp and brief remarks by senior library officials.
A delightful array of traditional sweets added colour to the occasion, making it a meaningful gathering that fostered unity and strengthened camaraderie among staff.

𝔽𝕚𝕣𝕖 𝕊𝕒𝕗𝕖𝕥𝕪 𝕋𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕟𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝔻𝕖𝕞𝕠𝕟𝕤𝕥𝕣𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟 ℙ𝕣𝕠𝕘𝕣𝕒𝕞𝕞𝕖 𝕊𝕦𝕔𝕔𝕖𝕤𝕤𝕗𝕦𝕝𝕝𝕪 ℍ𝕖𝕝𝕕 𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕄𝕒𝕚𝕟 𝕃𝕚𝕓𝕣𝕒𝕣𝕪

The Main Library of the University of Colombo successfully conducted a Fire Safety Training and Demonstration Programme on 13th February 2026, aimed at enhancing awareness and preparedness for fire emergencies among university library staff.

The programme was organized to equip participants with essential knowledge on fire prevention, emergency response procedures, technical aspects of the fire extinguishers, and the proper use of fire-fighting equipment. Both academic and non-academic staff members of the University actively participated in the session, gaining valuable insights into maintaining workplace safety and responding effectively to fire-related emergencies.

During the programme, experienced resource persons conducted informative theoretical sessions together with practical demonstrations. Participants were introduced to common fire hazards, preventive safety measures, and appropriate emergency evacuation procedures. In addition, a hands-on demonstration on the correct use of fire extinguishers was carried out, allowing participants to observe and understand proper handling techniques in emergency situations.

The training concluded successfully with an enthusiastic Q&A session between the trainer and attendees. The programme significantly contributed to strengthening fire safety awareness and emergency preparedness within the University community.

Initiatives such as this reflect the University of Colombo’s continued commitment to promoting a safe and secure working and learning environment for its staff and students.

𝕊𝕖𝕔𝕠𝕟𝕕 𝔹𝕠𝕠𝕜 𝕋𝕒𝕝𝕜 𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕌𝕟𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕣𝕤𝕚𝕥𝕪 𝕠𝕗 ℂ𝕠𝕝𝕠𝕞𝕓𝕠 𝕃𝕚𝕓𝕣𝕒𝕣𝕪 ℍ𝕚𝕘𝕙𝕝𝕚𝕘𝕙𝕥𝕤 𝕊𝕠𝕔𝕚𝕠-𝔸𝕟𝕥𝕙𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕠𝕝𝕠𝕘𝕚𝕔𝕒𝕝 ℙ𝕖𝕣𝕤𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕤 𝕠𝕟 𝕥𝕙𝕖 ℙ𝕒𝕥𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕚 ℂ𝕦𝕝𝕥

The second Book Talk organized by the Library of the University of Colombo was successfully held on 11th March 2026 at the Main Library. The session featured the book “ගණනාත් ඔබේසේකර ගේ පත්තිනි ඇදහිල්ල පිළිබඳ සමාජ මානව විද්‍යාත්මක ප්‍රතිපරීක්ෂාවක්” (A Socio-Anthropological Reexamination of the Cult of the Goddess Pattini of Gananath Obeysekara), authored by Senior Professor Premakumara De Silva.

During the programme, Professor Premakumara De Silva shared the experience of his research journey and highlighted key ideas presented in the book. His presentation provided participants with valuable insights into the socio-anthropological interpretations of the Pattini belief system and its broader cultural significance. The discussion offered students and staff an opportunity to reflect on religious practices through an academic and analytical lens, encouraging them to approach reading and research from new perspectives.

The session was highly interactive and was well received by both academic staff and students, who actively engaged in the discussion. As a gesture of support to the University Library patrons, Professor Premakumara De Silva generously donated a copy of his book to the Library. The event was coordinated by the Senior Assistant Librarian of the Reader Services Division, with the support of the library staff, reflecting the Library’s continued commitment to promoting academic dialogue, reading culture, and research engagement within the university community.

𝔹𝕠𝕠𝕜 𝕋𝕒𝕝𝕜 𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕄𝕒𝕚𝕟 𝕃𝕚𝕓𝕣𝕒𝕣𝕪, 𝕌𝕟𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕣𝕤𝕚𝕥𝕪 𝕠𝕗 ℂ𝕠𝕝𝕠𝕞𝕓𝕠

𝔹𝕠𝕠𝕜 𝕋𝕒𝕝𝕜 𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕄𝕒𝕚𝕟 𝕃𝕚𝕓𝕣𝕒𝕣𝕪, 𝕌𝕟𝕚𝕧𝕖𝕣𝕤𝕚𝕥𝕪 𝕠𝕗 ℂ𝕠𝕝𝕠𝕞𝕓𝕠