Ruhuna University Alumni pays tribute to pioneer Ronnie De Mel

Ronnie De Mel the former Finance Minister and pioneer of the Ruhuna University was felicitated by the Ruhuna University Alumni Colombo Association recently. 

The citation was read as a foresight in founding and promoting the University of Ruhuna as a major centre of leaning and research in Sri Lanka.

The second Annual General Meeting of the Alumni Colombo Association was held at the Western Province Aesthetic Center, Professor Stanly Wijesundara Mawatha, and Colombo 7.   A total number of six past Vice Chancellors also were felicitated at this function. Professor G P Samarawickrama, Professor S Pinnaduwage, Professor Chandrasiri Niriella, Professor Ranjith Senaratne, Professor Susirith Mendis and the present Vice Chancellor Professor Gamini Senanayake were among them. An appreciation and gratitude for their unwavering support and dedicated service that helped to lead the path,for success toward the University, were honored at this function.

University of Ruhuna Vice Chancellor , Professor Gamini Senanayake formally presents the plaque to Ronnie de Mel 

Retired senior academics such as Professor Sirimal Ranawella, Professor Vinnie Vitharana, Professor Danny Athapattu, Professor Ranjith Pathirana and Professor Chithra Pathirana were also felicitated. A large number of academic staff and alumni attended this grand function. 

 “Thaksalawaka Arumethiya” a documentary produced by the Alumni Colombo Association was screened at the function. The documentary was directed and scripted by a couple of the Alumni and it charts the University’s inception, historical journey, architectural uniqueness, the university culture and the service that is being rendered to the nation. The documentary was well commended and appreciated by the audience. 

The key note address was delivered by the Chief Guest, former Minister Hon Ronnie De Mel. The function was very successful and very well attended. It was a platform to interact for all alumni not only with their colleagues but also with their academic gurus. Veteran singers Edward Jayakody and Krishantha Erandaka entertained those present with their vocal talents. Association President Chandrapala Liyanage (former DG ,SLRC) delivered the welcome address and Palitha Udayakantha (Surveyor General) Secretary of the Alumni Association made a vote of thanks.

Ronnie de Mel addresses the gathering