ICLSL 2016- International Linguistics Conference concludes at University of Kelaniya

The 2nd International Conference on Linguistics in Sri Lanka- ICLSL 2016, organised by the Dept of Linguistics, University of Kelaniya, was held last week at the University premises.

The keynote speech was delivered by Associate Professor Alexander Adelaar a Principal Fellow in the Asia Institute at the Institute of Melbourne, and a Fellow of the Academy of Humanities in Australia, followed by allocations of parallel sessions of related subjects.

Vice Chancellor- University of Kelaniya, Senior Prof Sunanda Madduma Bandara addressing the event, said it was one of the golden opportunities in diversifying aspects towards Linguistic scholars in opening their windows to the world outside in communicating in terms of their research findings with others.

“I greatly appreciate the untiring efforts of the Dept of Linguistics in conducting a number of Degree Courses such as the BA in Translation Studies, MA in Linguistics, MPhil in Linguistics and PhD in Linguistics, as well as Higher Diploma in Trilingual Studies, Diploma in Tamil and Diploma in Translation & Interpretation. Also the Certificate Course in Tamil. Hence, the academic staff of the Dept are constantly striving towards producing high quality scholars who will be assets to the entire world,” he said.

”ICLSL 2016 is focusing on research in all areas related to Language such as Structural Linguistics, Language Teaching, Bilingualism, Language Policy & Planning, Translation Studies, Clinical Linguistics & Psycholinguistics. This research forum will provide an opportunity to exchange and share, thereby significantly contributing towards the development of different fields of the subject, while finding solutions towards Language-based problems faced by researchers both at national and international levels” Prof. Bandara stated.

He said the culture of research was growing rapidly within the University with many conferences and symposiums held frequently.

“The University of Kelaniya, through the Research Council, provides financial support to conduct Research conferences, registration fees for local and international symposiums and travel grants to present Research findings at International Research forums. As a result, a significant number of publications are continuously being uploaded to the e-repository of the University. IClSL 2016 is one of the forums which contribute to the e-repository”, Prof. Bandara said.

"The 1st ICLSL was held in 2015 with 4 foreign scholars and 51 local scholars presenting their Research papers. This year's Conference will have more than 20 foreign scholars and more than 80 local scholars presenting their Research papers," said Chief Organiser- ICLSL 2016, Dept of Linguistics, University of Kelaniya, Senior & Chair Prof R.M.W Rajapakshe .