The Department of Applied Sciences within the Faculty of Humanities and Sciences at SLIIT successfully conducted SciFest 2026 on June 5, 2026, at the Malabe Campus. This annual science festival aims to motivate both school and university students to delve into scientific fields, innovation, and entrepreneurship as essential elements for developing real-world solutions.
The fourth iteration of SciFest attracted around 300 participants, which included school students, university undergraduates, academics, industry professionals, and collaborative partners. The event was organized in partnership with the Ministry of Education, emphasizing SLIIT’s dedication to enhancing science education, promoting innovation, and solidifying connections between academia and industry.
Dr. Ruchira Wijesena, a Senior Lecturer at the Institute of Technology, University of Moratuwa, served as the Chief Guest and keynote speaker for the event. Notable attendees featured Prof. Lakshman Ratnayake, Chancellor and Chairman; Prof. Nimal Rajapakse, Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost; Dr. Malitha Wijesundara, Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Faculty of Humanities and Sciences; Prof. Ayantha Gomes, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering; Prof. Colin N. Peiris, Dean of Academic Development and Quality Assurance; and Prof. Sriyani N. Peiris, former Head of the Department of Applied Sciences.
The judging panel consisted of esteemed professionals from both industry and academia, including Dr. Lasantha Malavige, Chairman of Lassana Group; Dr. Dilan Fernando, Director of SLIIT Innovate; Mr. Niresh Ratnagopal, Head of Programs at Hatch Works (Pvt) Ltd.; Mr. Rishan Sampath, Manager of Dilmah Conservation & Sustainability; and Professors Eranga Wijesinghe and Nathali Silva from SLIIT.
The Science Quiz Competition evaluated students’ knowledge in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, with four finalists from 30 schools across five provinces competing at SLIIT. Vishvoda College from Kurunegala claimed the championship, while St. Mary’s College in Kegalle and Malabe Boys Model School secured the first and second runner-up positions, respectively.
The IGNITE Innovation Competition engaged approximately 80 participants from both school and university categories, challenging them to propose commercially viable scientific solutions. In the university category, Team SilenceSpeak from SLIIT, led by Dineth Shawinda Samarakoon, took first prize for their sign-language interpretation glove. In the school category, H.P. Dulja Sanuli Karunasekara from WP/GM/Yasodara Devi Balika Vidyalaya won first place with a project focused on detecting dengue mosquito larvae.
Dr. Malitha Wijesundara, Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Faculty of Humanities and Sciences, remarked on the initiative, stating, “SciFest 2026 was designed to enable young minds to perceive science beyond the confines of the classroom. By merging knowledge with creativity and entrepreneurship, we inspire students to engage in critical thinking, devise practical solutions, and comprehend the role of innovation in society and the economy.”
SciFest 2026 received support from ALTHIA and AVON Pharmo Chem as title sponsors, with U & P Global Tec as the primary partner. Additional backing came from LifeCare Biotech, CeyDev, P&T, and Hemsons.
Winners were awarded a total of LKR 100,000 in cash prizes, along with medals, awards, and certificates to acknowledge their exceptional achievements.
SLIIT plans to further develop SciFest in future editions to enhance engagement in science, foster innovation, and cultivate the upcoming generation of Sri Lanka’s scientists and entrepreneurs.
Financial Chronicle Biz English | Sri Lanka Business News.
