The Institute of Human Resource Advancement (IHRA), University of Colombo, successfully inaugurated the Bachelor of Labour Management (BLM) Degree Programme 2026/27 and the Diploma in Labour Education (DLE) Programme 2026/27 on Thursday, 01 October 2026, at the New Arts Theatre (NAT), University of Colombo.
The ceremony was held from 5.00 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. and was graced by Senior Prof. Kapila Seneviratne, Chairman of the University Grants Commission, as the Chief Guest, and Prof. Indika Mahesh Karunathilaka, Vice Chancellor of the University of Colombo, as the Guest of Honour. The event was also honoured by Dr. Priyantha Premakumara, Secretary of the University Grants Commission, the Deans and Directors of the University of Colombo, members of the IHRA Board of Management, the lecturers of the BLM and DLE programmes, and the academic, administrative, academic support and non academic staff of IHRA, University of Colombo.
The programme commenced with the National Anthem, followed by a traditional Pooja Dance. The Welcome Address was delivered by Prof. D. A. C. Silva, Director, IHRA, who welcomed the distinguished guests, staff members, and students and highlighted the significance of the commencement of the two programmes for the 2026/27 academic year.
A special video presentation highlighting the vision, mission, achievements, and contributions of the Institute of Human Resource Advancement, University of Colombo, was subsequently presented.
The ceremony featured an address by Senior Prof. Kapila Seneviratne, Chairman of the University Grants Commission, who emphasized the importance of human resource development and labour education in strengthening the national workforce and contributing to sustainable socio-economic development.
This was followed by an address by Prof. Indika Mahesh Karunathilaka, Vice Chancellor of the University of Colombo, who highlighted the importance of professional advancement, continuous learning, and the development of competent and adaptable human resources to meet the evolving demands of the world of work.
The event also included a sharing of learning experiences by Ms. Wathsala Wickramasooriya, recipient of the Gold Medal for Overall Outstanding Performance for the 2022/23 academic year. Her reflections provided an inspiring perspective on the value of professional education and the opportunities available through IHRA.
The ceremonial programme was further enriched by traditional cultural performances, including the Giri Devi Dance, showcasing Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.
The programme concluded with the Vote of Thanks delivered by Mr. K. D. N. Hewage, Senior Lecturer, IHRA, expressing appreciation to all those who contributed to the successful organization of the inauguration ceremony.
The inauguration marked an important milestone in the commencement of the BLM Degree Programme and DLE Programme for the 2026/27 academic year, reaffirming the Institute of Human Resource Advancement’s continued commitment to developing human talent and strengthening professional competencies through sustainable education and lifelong learning.
“Advancing Human Resources for a Productive and Progressive Society.”
