“PGIS RESCON 2018” successfully concludes…
“PGIS RESCON 2018” the fifth Annual Research Congress of the Postgraduate Institute of Science, University of Peradeniya was held from 9th to 10th of November, 2018 with the presence of scientists from around the country, international researchers, senior public sector officials, industry representatives and postgraduate students. The event featured a ceremonial inauguration held atEarl’s Regent Hotel, Kandy followed by a Congress Dinner and Technical Sessions held at Postgraduate Institute of Science and Faculty of Science, University of Peradeniya. The congress aimed to provide an exciting opportunity to share knowledge and network with scientists from across Sri Lanka and abroad, through presenting cutting edge research works. Hundred research papers were accepted for oral presentations and another fourteen research papers were accepted for poster presentations at‘ PGIS RESCON 2018’.
Prof. Upul B. Dissanayake, the Vice Chancellor of University of Peradeniya graced the inauguration of “PGIS RESCON 2018”as the Chief Guestand Mr. H. M. B. C. Herath, the Additional Secretary, Ministry of Science, Technology and Re s e a r c h as the Guest of Honor, representing the Secretary of Ministry of Science, Technology and Research. Prof. H. M. T. G. A. Pitawala, Acting Director of Postgraduate institute of Science welcomed the gathering to the event. Prof. Zhonghe Pang, the Director, Geothermal Research Centre, IGG- CAS and Head, Department of Hydrogeology and GeothermicsChinese Academy of Sciences ( CAS), Beijing, China delivered the Keynote Address of ‘ RESCON 2018’. Pro f. Upul B. Dissanayake, ( Vice Chancellor of University of Peradeniya), Prof. Saluka R. Kodituwakku, ( Dean, Fa c u l t y of S c i e n c e, University of Peradeniya) and Mr. H. M. B. C. Herath ( Additional Secre t a r y, Ministry of Science, Technology and Research) also spoke at the event. Further, ‘ Postgraduate Research Highlights 2018’ a publication that presents research findings of individual researchers who have received MPhil and PhD degrees in the recent years was also launched at ‘ PGIS RESCON 2018’ . The publication serves as an additional means of disseminating knowledge gained through years of research. Dr. JagathGunatilake, the Chairperson of Organizing Committee of ‘ PGIS RESCON 2018’ delivered the Vote of Thanks, marking the end of inaugural ceremony.
Technical Sessions of “PGIS RESCON 2018” were held on 10th of November, 2018 at Postgraduate Institute of Science and Faculty of Science, University of Peradeniya under five broad themes including, Earth and Environmental Science, Information and Communication & Technolo g y; Mathematics; Statistics, Life Sciences, Physical Sciences and Science Education.
Established in 1996, the Postgraduate Institute of Science ( PGIS), University of Peradeniya, offers numerous postgraduate programmes leading to Diploma, MSc, Mphil and PhD degrees. The institute has been strived to become aglobally recognized Centre for innovation through outstanding scientific research in a range of disciplines. The PGIS encourages advanced scientific research by providing facilities and a conducive environment for research and teaching so as to achieve the goals of the institute and the society.
The students are facilitated to carry out their research in a range of laboratories established at the PGIS as well as at the Faculty of science of theUniversity of Peradeniya, the National Institute of Fundamental Studies and several other national universities and research institutes in the country. Currently the PGIS has taken steps to improve technical capabilities of its laboratories by acquiring modern equipment and instruments and the development of new techniques. The PGIS also collaborates with researchers at certain overseas universities and research institutes to help young postgraduate studentsin Sri Lanka to build up their careers.
“PGIS RESCON 2018” was sponsored by Analytical Instruments ( Pvt) Ltd., ASB Construction ( Pvt) Ltd., Bank of Ceylon, People’s Bank, Hemsons I n t e r nat i o n a l (Pvt) Ltd., and International Affairs Office, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. (Photo courtesy: NimeshaPriyalanka).