International Men’s Day 2024: KDU Celebrates Positive Male Role Models with Leadership and Cultural Excellence
The Centre for Gender Equity and Equality (CGEE) of General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU), in collaboration with the Faculty of Medicine Art Society, organized a highly engaging workshop on November 19, 2024, at the Auditorium, Faculty of Graduate Studies, KDU, to celebrate International Men’s Day. This year’s theme, “Positive Male Role Models”, brought together an impressive panel of distinguished guests, inspiring speakers, and talented performers, creating a vibrant and memorable event.
The workshop was honoured by the presence of Rear Admiral HGU Dammika Kumara, VSV, USP, psc, MMaritimePol, BSc (DS), Vice-Chancellor of KDU, who graced the occasion with his insightful thoughts, emphasizing the importance of fostering positive male role models. Major General C A Wickramasinghe USP USACGSC, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Defence and Administration) of KDU, also attended the event, adding prestige with his presence and inspiring remarks.
Moderated by Professor Nishantha Kumarasinghe and Mr. Champika Gunasekera, the workshop featured a dynamic panel of renowned figures, including Professor Emeritus J.B. Dissanayaka, Sangeeth Nipun Jayantha Aravinda, and Mr. Shehan Ambepitiya, who shared profound insights on leadership, resilience, and the evolving role of men in modern society. Special guest speakers Col. (Dr.) Lalan Fernando, Dr. Ayomi Irugalbandara and Dr. Prasanna Herath, further enriched the event with thought-provoking perspectives, engaging the audience in meaningful dialogues.
Cultural flair enhanced the program through a collaborative drama performance by the students of Faculty of Allied Health Sciences (FAHS) and the Faculty of Medicine (FOM), with the participation of staff members. The program also featured a soulful song by Professor Prasanna Premadasa, the Dean of the Faculty of Technology (FOT), and an energetic dance performance by KDU students from multiple faculties, all of which showcased the creative spirit and unity of the university community.
A highlight of the event was the Special Appreciation Ceremony, which honoured long-serving academic and non-academic staff, as well as Army, Navy, and Air Force personnel, for their exceptional contributions to KDU. This heartfelt gesture reflected the university’s unwavering commitment to recognizing excellence within its diverse community.
The event’s seamless execution was a testament to the coordination of Mr. Chandima Gamage, and Mr. Isuru Abeykoon, the faculty representatives of CGEE, under the supervision of Dr. Nirosha Wedasinghe, Director of CGEE, KDU, and Professor Nishantha Kumarasinghe, FOM, KDU. Their dedicated efforts ensured the program’s success and its lasting impact.
This celebration of International Men’s Day was a resounding success, fostering a deeper understanding of positive male role models while inspiring attendees to embody empathy, responsibility, and leadership. The event highlighted KDU’s dedication to promoting gender equity and equality and emphasized the vital contributions of men in building a harmonious and inclusive society.
