Exclusive Technology License Agreement and Prospective Intellectual Property Transfer Agreement between Uva Wellassa University and Fish Tales (Pvt.) Ltd. were signed on 27 th February 2026 at the Uva Wellassa University with the participation of Snr. Prof. Kolitha B. Wijesekara, Vice Chancellor, Snr. Prof. H.M.S.K. Herath, Dean, Faculty of Animal Science and Export Agriculture, Prof. P.I.N. Fernando, Director, University Business Linkage (UBL) Cell, Dr. N.M.N. Nambapana, Head, Department of Animal Science, and some representatives from Fish Tales (Pvt.) Ltd.

The agreement grants Fish Tales (Pvt.) Ltd. an exclusive five-year license to collaborate with the University on the development and future commercialization of value-added fish products using fresh marine fish, based on the technology developed by Prof. E.D.N.S. Abeyrathne, Professor in Animal Science, Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Animal Science and Export Agriculture. The collaboration and agreement process were coordinated through UBL Cell of Uva Wellassa University which facilitates industry–university partnerships and technology transfer initiatives.

Senior Professor Kolitha Bandara Wijesekara, Vice Chancellor of Uva Wellassa University (UWU), initiated official pre-talk discussions with two world class Higher Education Institutions in India – Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), and SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Ramapuram on 19 and 20 November 2025, aiming to strengthen future academic collaboration.

The Vice Chancellor was accompanied by Dr. T. Pratheepan, Acting Librarian of UWU. Discussions focused on potential collaboration in student and faculty exchange, joint research, collaborative conferences, twinning programmes, and the establishment of Centres of Excellence.

During the visit to VIT Vellore on 19 November 2025, the UWU delegation met with Dr. G. Viswanathan, Founder and Chancellor of VIT; Dr. V. S. Kanchana Bhaaskaran, Vice Chancellor; Prof. Dr. R. Seenivasan, Director,International Relations Cell; and senior officials Prof. Kalyanaraman and Prof. Lokesh. other key academic leaders.

On 20 November 2025, the delegation visited SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Ramapuram, where they were received by Dr. R. Shivakumar, Chairman, SRM Group of Institutions, and Dr. M. Sakthi Ganesh, Dean , Faculty of Engineering & Technology, along with the Dean of Dental Sciences, the Dean of Architecture and Prof.K.Rajah Head of the Department of Computer Science and other key officials. The discussions highlighted opportunities for strengthening cross-border academic and research collaboration. In recognition of his contributions to previous collaborative initiatives, Dr. T. Pratheepan was formally honoured by the SRM leadership.

Both visits were marked by formal receptions, cultural exchanges, and the exchange of mementoes, reflecting strong mutual interest in long-term institutional cooperation. These pre-talks represent an important step towards expanding UWU’s global academic partnerships.

Senior Professor Kolitha Bandara Wijesekara, Vice Chancellor of Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, was invited as the Guest of Honor at the 14th International CALIBER 2025 Conference, held at Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati, India, from 17th to 19th November 2025.

The International CALIBER Conference is a prestigious forum in the field of Library and Information Science, bringing together leading academics, researchers, and library professionals from across the world to discuss emerging trends, innovations, and best practices in librarianship and information management.

Representing Uva Wellassa University, Dr. T. Pratheepan, Acting Librarian, also participated in the conference and served as a Conference Session Chair, contributing to the academic deliberations and scholarly discussions of the event.

The distinguished invitation extended to the Vice Chancellor as Guest of Honor, along with the active academic role undertaken by the Acting Librarian, reflects the growing international recognition of Uva Wellassa University and its commitment to excellence in higher education, research, and professional engagement at the global level.

The Department of Export Agriculture, Faculty of Animal Science and Export Agriculture, Uva Wellassa University, successfully hosted Flamma Fire Night 2025 on November 19, 2025, at the A-Block Car Park from 6.30 PM onwards. The event was organized with the aim of raising funds for EAG Bash Volleyball Tournament 2025 and the Student Support Society of the Department.

The evening was officially inaugurated by Prof. Saman K. Herath, Dean, Faculty of Animal Science and Export Agriculture, who lit the ceremonial fire. The event was also graced by Dr. Lalith Amarathunga, Head, Department of Export Agriculture, Prof. Janaka Wijesinghe, Head, Department of Food Science and Technology, Prof. Wasantha Senevirathne, Senior Student Counsellor along with other academic staff members in the Faculty.

Flamma Fire Night 2025 brought together undergraduates and academic staff for a vibrant and energetic evening filled with community spirit and entertainment. Guided by the academic adviser, Dr. Nuwan Weerawansha, Senior Lecturer (Gr. II) in the Department of Export Agriculture, the organizing committee worked collaboratively to create an engaging and memorable experience for all participants.

A key highlight of the night was the impressive variety of food and beverage stalls managed by the undergraduates of the Export Agriculture Degree Program. The menu featured a delightful mix of BBQ, burgers, tacos, hot dogs, corn, spicy poori, kottu, potato pops, chai tea, coffee, and more, adding a festive touch while significantly supporting the fundraising efforts.

A dedicated game zone attracted enthusiastic crowds, offering engaging activities and friendly competition throughout the evening.

Live musical performances by talented undergraduates further enhanced the ambiance, creating a lively and entertaining atmosphere that vibrated with the audience.

Flamma Fire Night 2025 truly showcased the unity, creativity, and enthusiasm of the Export Agriculture student community. The event not only delivered an enjoyable evening but also made a meaningful contribution to the success of upcoming ‘EAG Bash Volleyball Tournament 2025’ and ongoing student welfare initiatives.

The Department of Export Agriculture, Faculty of Animal Science and Export Agriculture, Uva Wellassa University successfully hosted the High Tea Event titled ‘A Journey Through Global Tea Cultures’ on 17th July 2025, as part of the 20th Anniversary celebrations of Uva Wellassa University. The event was proudly funded by the Go-Study Global Education China program and beautifully showcased the cultural richness of tea traditions across the world.

The event created an atmosphere similar to a tea ceremony that featured four uniquely designed tea corners – the Sri Lankan Corner, Indian Corner, British Corner, and Japanese-Chinese Corner. Each corner offered guests the opportunity to enjoy authentic teas paired with traditional snacks, while also experiencing the distinct serving techniques, utensils, and cultural practices associated with each region. The corners were adorned with thematic decorations, creating an immersive atmosphere that reflected the heritage of each tea culture.

A highlight of the event was the innovative “Tea Passport”, provided at the registration desk. Guests collected stamps in their passports by visiting each corner and sampling the teas and delicacies, adding a sense of exploration and interaction to the evening.

The cultural vibrancy of the ceremony was further enriched by performances that blended music, dance, and tea-serving rituals, offering the audience a lively celebration of diversity and unity through tea.

The event was graced by the presence of Senior. Prof. Kolitha Wijesekara, Vice Chancellor of Uva Wellassa University, Prof. Saman K Herath, the Dean, Faculty of Animal Science and Export Agriculture, Dr. Lalith Amarathunga, Head, Department of Export Agriculture, Prof. Janaka Wijesinghe, Head, Department of Food Science and Technology, academic staff, and distinguished professionals from Sri Lanka’s tea industry.

Importantly, the Tea Ceremony was led by the second- and third-year undergraduates of the Tea Technology and Value Addition Degree Program, who took the initiative in planning, designing, and managing the event. The event was coordinated by Dr. Nuwan Weerawansha and Ms. Prathibha Kahandage, with the invaluable support of Dr. G. Abhiram, Ms. Wasana Jeewanthi, Ms. Lakmini Lochana, Mr. Isuru Priyadarashana, and Ms. Pamodya Kumarasinghe whose contribution was instrumental in delivering a memorable cultural experience.

The UWU Tea Ceremony 2025 not only celebrated tea as a universal beverage but also highlighted its power in bridging communities and cultures across the globe, making it a truly meaningful and festive occasion.

Ground Realities to Policy Changes for a Sustainable Future in UVA Agriculture

The team “Ayu-Ayurvedhic Medical Village” emerged as the second runners-up at the Tourism Innovation Proposal Competition (Team Category) in the inaugural Sri Lanka MICE Tourism Conclave 2025.

The awarding ceremony was held on 24th May 2025 in parallel to the Sancharaka Udawa 2025 exhibition, and Hon. Deputy Minister in Tourism, Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe, graced the event as the Chief Guest.

The student team comprised Ms. Rasodya Wijekooon, Mr. Samitha Kuruppu, Ms. Maleesha Pathiraja and Ms. Hesha Rathnayake and Ms. Shashika Pattiyagedara as the team’s academic mentor.

Galena 2025; the annual signature event organized by the third-year undergraduates of the Hospitality, Tourism and Events Management Degree Programme offered by the Department of Tourism Studies, Faculty of Management of Uva Wellassa University was successfully held on 15th January 2025 at the university premises.

The event, launched in 2015, was designed to provide students with practical experiences beyond theoretical knowledge, while also offering guests a star-class dining experience, where they could learn various hospitality etiquettes.

This event draws inspiration from the royal heritage and grandeur of ancient Sri Lanka, showcasing the country’s cultural richness through the themes of royal hospitality and the luxurious lifestyle of the Kandyan kings by converting a lecture hall into a star-class restaurant.

Galena 2025 captivated attendees with its exceptional blend of Royal Kandyan heritage, elegant decorations, entertainment, games, and culinary delights.

Senior Professor Kolitha B. Wijesekara, the Chief Guest, graced the occasion, which saw over 200 distinguished guests in attendance, including Deans of the faculties, academic and administrative staff members, Mr. Dheera Hettiarachchi, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, and his team.

Notable figures such as Mr. Mahesh Gammanpila, Chief Secretary of Uva Province, officers from the Uva Provincial Ministry of Tourism, members of the Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators, representatives from Aitken Spence, leading hoteliers, and professionals from the tourism industry also participated in the event.

The celebration was attended by enthusiastic undergraduates, all of whom contributed to making Galena 2025 a grand success.

The Uva Wellassa University (UWU) Library has embarked on an inspiring new journey with the launch of Libra CineSpace: Bridging Cinema and Scholarship, an innovative initiative designed to integrate cinematic art with academic learning. The program was inaugurated on 21 October 2025 under the distinguished presence of Senior Professor Kolitha B. Wijesekara, Vice Chancellor of Uva Wellassa University, who graced the occasion and delivered the inaugural address. In his remarks, he emphasized the vital role of creative media in fostering intellectual engagement and critical thinking among students. The event commenced with a Welcome Address by Dr.K.M.R.K.Kulatunga, followed by an Introductory Address delivered by Dr. T. Pratheepan, Acting Librarian of UWU. The Vote of Thanks was proposed by Ms. Chathurika Dilhani, Senior Assistant Registrar. The ceremony was attended by the Deans of Faculties, Registrar, Bursar, distinguished guests and students.

Built around the theme “From Page to Screen,” Libra CineSpace explores how literary works and novels are transformed into compelling visual narratives for mainstream audiences. Through this initiative, the UWU Library seeks to cultivate a vibrant and inclusive library culture, inspiring students to appreciate literature, storytelling, and cinema as interconnected forms of creative expression and learning. Film screenings are scheduled three days a week (Tuesday to Friday) from 5.30 p.m. to 8.00 p.m. at the Library Smart Auditorium. Each screening is followed by student-led reviews, open discussions, and reflective sessions—encouraging critical thinking, interpretation, and dialogue among participants. As part of its ongoing development, Libra CineSpace will also introduce quiz competitions, debates, and film-review contests related to the movies screened, providing a creative platform for students to express their analytical and artistic insights.