International Peace Day Celebration, 2026

The Peace and Conflict Resolution Degree Programme of the Department of Philosophy, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, commemorated the International Day of Peace 2026 through a series of activities commencing on 21 September and continuing with a three-day programme from 19 to 21 October 2026, in collaboration with Rotary District 3220. Bringing together creative expression, academic dialogue, sporting engagement, and literary discussion, the programme sought to connect peace education with practices that encourage mutual understanding, cooperation, and reflection across differences.

The programme commenced on 21 September with the opening of a Peace Wall on the Faculty premises, providing a space for members of the university community to express their ideas and aspirations for peace. This initiative encouraged participation and reflection, highlighting the importance of individual voices in shaping a shared commitment to peaceful coexistence.

The second phase began on 19 October with a panel discussion titled “Peace Begins with Dialogue,” held at the Faculty of Social Sciences Auditorium from 2.00 to 4.00 p.m. The discussion explored interconnected dimensions of peace and peacebuilding, including inner peace, the influence of power and politics, the contributions of organizations, and pathways towards positive peace. These themes provided a framework for examining peace as both a personal and collective responsibility, shaped by social relationships and institutional conditions.

On 20 October, the “Play for Peace” cricket match, held at Saibe Ground from 8.30 a.m., extended the programme’s educational purpose into a shared sporting activity. Guided by the slogan “Different Backgrounds, Same Team,” the event emphasized teamwork, fair play, friendship, and mutual respect. It offered a practical setting for students to engage with one another across differences and experience how cooperation in everyday interactions can contribute to a culture of peace.

The programme concluded on 21 October with a review of Dr. Ranga Kalansooriya’s the Youthquake at the Faculty of Social Sciences Auditorium from 2.00 to 4.00 p.m. Focusing on youth, media, and society, the session provided an academic space for examining the relationship between public communication, youth participation, and social change. The book review complemented the preceding activities by emphasizing critical reading and informed discussion as important elements of peace education.

Together, these activities reflected an educational approach that connects theoretical inquiry with interpersonal engagement and social practice. Through creative expression, dialogue, collaborative sport, and critical reflection, the programme reaffirmed universities' role in cultivating the knowledge, values, and relationships necessary for peaceful coexistence.

"Utopia 2026"

"As the Sun goes down, the beats were set with an immense Euphoria."🪩✨

Welcome and Going Down Ceremony

"Utopia 2026"* Organized by *Philosophy Students Association, Department of Philosophy, * University of Kelaniya successfully marked its end on 2nd of June with the participation of the undergraduates, recently passed out students and the staff from the Department of Philosophy. ❤️

It was a remarkable day filled with love, laughter and emotional moments. We sincerely thank those behind this extravagant event for their utmost support and commitment in making it extraordinary. 💐

#Welcome&GoingDownCeremony

# Department of Philosophy

#UOK

විශේෂ නිවේදනයයි

දර්ශන ශිෂ්‍ය සංගමයේ පැරණි නිලධාරී මණ්ඩලය විසුරුවා, නව නිලධාරී මණ්ඩලය පත් කිරීමේ විශේෂ සභාවාරය 2026.06.19 ( සිකුරාදා) දින ප.ව.12.00 සිට ප.ව 1.00 දක්වා K1 - 201 (කැකුලාවල ශාලාව) හි දී පැවැත්වෙන අතර ඒ සඳහා ඔබගේ පැමිණීම අනිවාර්ය බව සලකන්න

සභාපති

දර්ශන ශිෂ්‍ය සංගමය

Special Notice!!

The dispersion of the former members of the Philosophy Association and the appointment of new members for the Philosophy Association will be held on 19.06.2026 (Friday) from 12.00pm - 1.00pm at K1-201 Kekulawala hall. Your participation is compulsory on this relevant date.

President

Philosophy Association

Congratulations to the Newly Elected Dean !!!

The Department of Philosophy, University of Kelaniya, warmly congratulates Professor Chaminda Abeysinghe on being elected as the new Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya. This appointment reflects the confidence placed in Professor Chaminda Abeysinghe’s vision, scholarship, and dedication to advancing academic excellence.

We are confident that under Professor Chaminda Abeysinghe’s leadership, the faculty will continue to flourish, fostering innovation, inclusivity, and collaborative growth. The Department extends its best wishes to him as it embarks on this important journey of service and stewardship.

Congratulations to the Newly Elected HOD !!!

The Department of Philosophy was established in 1959, University, marking an important milestone in its academic history. During its early years, the Department was led by Venerable Shasanarathana Thero of Moratuwa, who guided its initial development. Over the decades, the Department of Philosophy at the University of Kelaniya has evolved through three distinct historical phases.

At present, the Department offers undergraduate degree programs in three principal fields: Philosophy, Psychology, and Peace and Conflict Resolution. The Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology was introduced in 2003, followed by the commencement of the specialized degree program in 2007. These programs are conducted in both Sinhala and English medium. In 2007, the Bachelor’s degree in Peace and Conflict Resolution was initiated, and in 2018, it was transformed into an English medium Honours Degree Program.

A further landmark development occurred in 2022 with the establishment of the Unit of Psychology within the Department. Venerable Dr. Kumbukandana Rewatha Thero was appointed as its first Head. He had previously obtained a First Class in the Honours Degree in Psychology from the University of Peradeniya in 2007, and was selected as the first permanent lecturer in Psychology at the Department of Philosophy at the University of Kelaniya. He has since successfully completed the Honours Degree in Psychology at the University of Peradeniya, the Master of Philosophy Degree at the University of Kelaniya, and the Doctoral Degree at the Sri Lanka Bhiksu University, Sri Lanka.

Against this distinguished background, his appointment on 21st March 2026 as the Head, Department of Philosophy, University of Kelaniya constitutes a moment of profound significance in the Department’s history. It is both a blissful and honourable occasion, worthy of special recognition.

Accordingly, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Venerable Dr. Kumbukandana Rewatha Thero on his appointment as the present Head of the Department of Philosophy, University of Kelaniya.

Calling Applications for Diploma in Counseling- 10th Batch

Application of Diploma In Counselling - 2027.pdf

WELCOME TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PHILOSOPHY

The Department of Philosophy at the University of Kelaniya is one of its pioneering and oldest departments. It traces its roots back to the founding of Vidyalankara University in 1959, and the first Head of the Department was Ven. Prof. Moratuwe Sasanaratana Thero, a renowned Buddhist and scholar of Eastern philosophy. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Philosophy, Psychology, and Peace and Conflict Resolution.

PHILOSOPHY

Philosophy is praised as ‘the science of all sciences’ considering its antiquity in the history of systematic studies. Philosophy is a conceptual study that examines abstract concepts related to various other subject areas, such as Philosophy of Science, Philosophy of Law, and Political Philosophy. At the same time, Philosophy studies certain areas, such as logic, metaphysics, ethics, and epistemology, that are unique to the subject itself. Recently, philosophy has extended its boundaries to new territories such as environment (Environmental Philosophy), psychology (Philosophical Psychology) and Peace Studies (Philosophy of Human Rights).

PSYCHOLOGY

Psychology, as a study of human behaviour, examines various dimensions of behaviour, including the general nature of behaviour (General Psychology), abnormal behaviours (Abnormal Psychology), Learning behaviours (Educational Psychology), work behaviours (Psychology of Organisational Behaviour), and social behaviours (Social Psychology). Meanwhile, Child Psychology and Developmental Psychology studies the developmental aspects of human behaviour: physical development, cognitive development, socio-emotional development, and moral development. As psychology studies the mind and behaviours of the individual person, it has become one of the most interesting subjects in the modern world.

PEACE AND CONFLICT RESOLUTION

Peace studies have become a highly demanded discipline in modern society, where wars and conflicts are a common event. The Department introduced the B.A. degree in Peace and Conflict Resolution for the first time in South Asia. This Degree studies various dimensions of peace and conflict Resolution, styles and history of wars and conflicts, Philosophy and Psychology of peace and conflicts, Conflict management techniques and skills. As a newly introduced subject area to the academic world, “Peace and Conflict Resolution” plays a significant role in the university landscape in Sri Lanka. In a social context where conflicts are common, the study of issues related to peace and conflict is crucial.

Notice to Undergraduates

Those who were affected by the disaster last week, please be informed that the University of Kelaniya has planned a new welfare facility to support you.

Kindly follow the instructions and fill in this form. https://welfare.kln.ac.lk/#h.jcpma0fj5uo3

Due to the impact of the recent cyclone, some students and their families may be facing difficultie such as flooding, property damage, communication issues, or inability to reach the university.

If you or your family has been affected and you need any form of support, please inform your Assistant Student Counselor (ASC) or fill the google form shared by them.

Your safety and wellbeing are our priority.

Please reach out we are here to support you.

Disaster Response Student Support Information System- University of kelaniya / හදිසි ආපදාවෙන් බලපෑමට ලක්වූ සිසුන් සදහා උපකාරක සේවා- කැලණිය විශ්වවිද්‍යාලය.

Research & Publication News

E-Journal of Philosophy

The Department of Philosophy at the University of Kelaniya actively supports academic scholarship and knowledge dissemination through its online E- Journal. This peer-reviewed digital publication features research articles, reviews, and critical essays in the fields of Philosophy, Psychology, and Peace and Conflict Resolution. The E-Journal provides a platform for both faculty members and students to share original research, engage in scholarly dialogue, and contribute to contemporary debates in these disciplines. By embracing open access and digital formats, the journal aims to reach a wider audience locally and internationally, fostering academic collaboration and enhancing the department’s research profile.

E-Magazine for Students

The Department of Philosophy at the University of Kelaniya publishes an E- Magazine specifically for undergraduate students, providing a vibrant platform to showcase their creative and academic work. This digital magazine features articles, essays, poetry, artwork, and reflections related to philosophy, psychology, peace studies, and student life. It encourages undergraduates to express their ideas, engage with contemporary issues, and develop their writing and critical thinking skills. The E-Magazine also fosters a sense of community within the department by highlighting student achievements and facilitating dialogue among peers and faculty.

Students & Alumni News

The Philosophy Students’ Association

The Philosophy Students’ Association at the University of Kelaniya is an active student-led organization that aims to promote intellectual growth, social engagement, and community among philosophy students. The association organizes seminars, workshops, debates, cultural events, and study groups to encourage critical thinking and dialogue on philosophical issues. It also serves as a platform for students to develop leadership skills, collaborate on academic projects, and connect with faculty members and alumni. By fostering a vibrant campus community, the association enhances the overall learning experience and supports students in their academic and personal development.

ALUMNI Association

The Department of Philosophy at the University of Kelaniya takes pride in its diverse and accomplished alumni network, which includes scholars, educators, counsellors, peacebuilders, researchers, and professionals across various fields. Graduates of the department have made significant contributions nationally and internationally in academia, public service, social work, psychology, conflict resolution, and community development. The department maintains connections with its alumni through events, workshops, and collaborative projects, fostering ongoing engagement and support. This vibrant alumni community serves as an inspiration to current students and plays a vital role in enhancing the department’s reputation and outreach.

Department Alumni Coordinator

Se. Lec. Oshadhi Vindya Herath

President

Dr. Keerthi Prabash

Secretary

Ms. Anoma Gamage

International/National Contributions

Congratulations

P.G.D. Keshani Maduwanthi!

Huge congratulations to P.G.D. Keshani Madhuwanthi from Taekwondo team for winning the Gold medal in team Poomsae at the Sri Lanka University Games 2025!

Congratulations

W.M.M. Chamudi Wijethunga!

Wishing the best of luck to the taekwondo silver medal in the women's below 57kg- 62kg weight category at the Sri Lanka University Games 2025!

Your hard work,determination, and teamwork have truly paid off. We are incredibly proud of you and look forward to seeing what amazing things you’ll accomplish next. Keep shining and reaching for the stars.Congratulations! on your well- deserved success. Warmest greetings from Head of the Department, All the Lectures, Non - Academic Staff & Philosophy Association.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ’s)

What are the study disciplines?

Its main academic areas include Philosophy, which explores logic, ethics, metaphysics, epistemology, and contemporary philosophical issues; Psychology, which focuses on human behaviour, cognitive processes, personality, and mental well-being; and Peace and Conflict Resolution, which examines the philosophical and psychological foundations of peace, conflict dynamics, and methods of conflict management. In addition, the department provides specialized training in Counselling through professional diploma programme. Together, these disciplines create a multidisciplinary learning environment that prepares students for academic, professional, and community-oriented pathways.

What are the degree programmes available?

Undergraduate Degrees

B.A. in Philosophy
B.A. (Honours) in Philosophy
B.A. in Psychology
B.A. (Honours) in Psychology
B.A. (Honours) in Peace and Conflict Resolution

Postgraduate Degrees

Master of Arts (M.A.) in Philosophy
Master of Social Science (MSSc) in Philosophy
Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Philosophy
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Philosophy
MPhil in Psychology

Other Programme

Diploma in Counselling

What are the career prospects?

Students specializing in Philosophy can pursue careers in teaching, research, public service, writing, policy analysis, and human resource development, where critical thinking and ethical reasoning are essential. Those with training in Psychology are well-prepared to work in counselling, mental health services, social work, corporate psychology, research institutions, NGOs, hospitals, and community development projects. Graduates in Peace and Conflict Resolution are equipped for roles in diplomatic services, peacebuilding organizations, government agencies, NGOs, humanitarian missions, and conflict mediation. Additionally, the department’s Counselling programmes open pathways in school counselling, community counselling, youth guidance, rehabilitation center, and private practice. Overall, the multidisciplinary training offered by the department prepares students for meaningful careers that contribute positively to society.

What are the Official Professional Associations linked with?

Philosophy Student’s Association
Psychology Student’s Association
ALUMNI Association

How to contact?

Tel: +94 (0) 11 2 908 778 ( Monday to Friday from 8.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m)

Email: hodphil@kln.ac.lk

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