The Institute of Policy Studies of Sri Lanka (IPS) is inviting applications for the Saman Kelegama Memorial Research Grant 2026. Established in 2018 in memory of Dr. Saman Kelegama, the former Executive Director of IPS, this grant aims to support policy-relevant socio-economic research by undergraduate students.
This merit-based annual award is open to undergraduate students who are currently in their fourth year or are about to enter their fourth year in 2026, studying economics or a related field at a university or higher education institution approved by the University Grants Commission in Sri Lanka. The grant encourages original, rigorous, and innovative research with clear policy implications. Proposed studies should be independent of final-year projects or other ongoing research endeavors.
The chosen recipient will be awarded a one-time research grant of LKR 200,000, along with a three-month internship at IPS. This internship offers access to senior researchers and institutional resources, with flexible arrangements to accommodate students from different regions. Additional support will be provided to help present research findings at local conferences and workshops.
Proposals will be evaluated based on their policy relevance, feasibility, originality, and creativity. Three candidates will be shortlisted and invited to present at IPS, after which the grant recipient will be selected. The recipient is required to produce a Policy Discussion Brief within six months of receiving the grant.
Key Dates:
- 31 March 2026: Proposal submission deadline
- 31 May 2026: Announcement of finalists
- 23 June 2026: Announcement of Grant recipient
Applications must be submitted in English, in Word format, following the prescribed guidelines, and emailed to tharakam@ips.lk.
By supporting young researchers and promoting evidence-based inquiry, the IPS’s Saman Kelegama Memorial Research Grant carries forward Dr. Kelegama’s vision of strengthening policy discourse and advancing inclusive development in Sri Lanka.
For further information, please visit www.ips.lk.
