The Open University of Sri Lanka maintains a dedicated Research Unit, which serves as the central hub for coordinating, promoting, and supporting research activity across the university. The unit’s responsibilities include:
- Facilitating interdisciplinary research projects and collaborations
- Managing grants, scholarships, and funding opportunities
- Overseeing publication, patenting, and intellectual property processes
- Coordinating supervision of postgraduate research
- Organizing conferences, workshops, and research symposia
- Promoting engagement between academia, industry, communities, and policy makers
Through its efforts, the Research Unit helps strengthen OUSL’s research culture, amplify its scholarly impact, and contribute to national development and sustainable solutions.
ARS FoEOU
The Annual Research Symposium of the Faculty of Education (ARS FoE OUSL) is a key academic event of the Open University of Sri Lanka that brings together educators, researchers, and students to share their scholarly work. Established to promote a strong research culture within the Faculty of Education, the symposium encourages collaboration, innovation, and the exchange of ideas in the field of education, supporting the university’s mission of advancing knowledge and educational excellence. (Read more…)
SRSHSS
The Student Research Symposium of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (SRSHSS) The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS) is one of the oldest with the largest student population of more than 12500 students. SRSHSS is an annual event organized to promote a vibrant research culture among students of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at the Open University of Sri Lanka. It provides a platform for students to present their research, receive constructive feedback, and enhance their analytical, writing, and presentation skills. Through this symposium, the faculty encourages knowledge sharing, interdisciplinary interaction, and the development of future researchers committed to addressing contemporary issues in the humanities and social sciences. (Read more)
ICOME
The International Conference on Management and Entrepreneurship (ICOME) is a signature event hosted by the Faculty of Management Studies at the Open University of Sri Lanka. Since its inception, ICOME has grown into a respected international forum uniting scholars, practitioners, and doctoral researchers to explore cutting-edge topics in business, management, and entrepreneurship. Over successive editions, it has diversified its scope—incorporating Doctoral Colloquia, 3MT sessions, industry forums, mini-symposia, and innovation pitch contests—to foster dialogue, build scholarly networks, and encourage collaboration across academia and industry. (Read more…)
ICPIES
The International Conference on Plastics, Innovations, and Environmental Sustainability (ICPIES) 2025 brings together experts, researchers, policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders to explore cutting-edge advancements in plastics science, sustainable innovations, and environmental solutions. This conference serves as a platform for sharing knowledge, pioneering technologies, and best practices to mitigate plastic pollution, promote circular economy strategies, and drive sustainable transformations in plastics recycling and waste management. (Read more,,,)
ICMS
The International Conference on Mangrove and Sustainability (ICMS) is a global platform dedicated to promoting the conservation and sustainable management of mangrove ecosystems. It brings together researchers, policymakers, conservationists, and industry leaders to share knowledge, discuss challenges, and explore innovative solutions. ICMS focuses on key areas such as biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, coastal protection, and community engagement. Through interdisciplinary discussions and collaborative initiatives, the conference aims to advance research, influence policy, and develop effective strategies for the long-term sustainability of mangrove ecosystems worldwide. (Read more…)
IRC-OUSL
The International Research Conference of the Open University of Sri Lanka (IRC-OUSL) is the premier annual research conference of the Open University of Sri Lanka, dedicated to fostering a culture of inquiry, innovation, and knowledge sharing. It provides a platform for academics, researchers, and students to present their findings, exchange ideas, and engage in multidisciplinary dialogue. Through presentations, discussions, and collaborative activities, OURS strengthens the university’s research capacity and contributes to national and global academic advancement (Read more…)
OuFHSRC
The Open University Faculty of Health Sciences Research Conference (OuFHSRC) is a premier academic event that brings together scholars, practitioners, and students to present and discuss their research in health and allied health disciplines. The conference serves as a dynamic platform for sharing evidence-based findings, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, and translating research into practical applications that enhance patient care and community health outcomes. By encouraging dialogue among diverse stakeholders, OuFHSRC aims to advance health sciences through innovative practices and continuous professional development. (Read more…)
SAIELN
The South Asian International Economic Law Network (SAIELN) Conference serves as a dynamic platform for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers to exchange ideas and perspectives on international economic law from a South Asian viewpoint. The conference promotes collaboration across borders, encouraging discussions on trade, investment, sustainability, and inclusive development. (Read more…)
Uplifting Environmental Sustainability for Better University Rankings in Sri Lanka
The Institute of Environmental Professionals Sri Lanka (IEPSL), in collaboration with the Centre for Environmental Studies and Sustainable Development (CESSD) of the Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL), successfully held the official launching ceremony of the report titled “Uplifting Environmental Sustainability for Better University Rankings in Sri Lanka.”
The event took place on 25th September 2025 at the Sri Lanka Foundation (SLF), Colombo 07, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, marking an important milestone in promoting sustainability-driven development within Sri Lanka’s higher education sector.
The launched report presents the consolidated outcomes of the National Workshop on Uplifting Environmental Sustainability for Better University Rankings, which was organized by IEPSL and CESSD in February 2025. This workshop brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including university academics, administrative leaders, policymakers, and environmental professionals, to discuss and develop strategies for improving sustainability initiatives and environmental performance within Sri Lankan higher education institutions. (Read more…)
Post-Conference Workshop – International Conference on Mangrove for Sustainability 2025
On July 26, 2025, to mark World Mangrove Day, the International Conference on Mangrove for Sustainability (ICMS) concluded with an engaging post-conference workshop held in Pambala, Sri Lanka. The event brought together a diverse group of local and international experts, including the renowned mangrove scientist Prof. K. Kathiresan, to explore collaborative approaches to mangrove conservation. The discussion emphasized the critical role of evidence-based management in ensuring the long-term resilience of mangrove forests.
Prof. Roshan Perera, representing the Scientific Committee from the Open University of Sri Lanka, delivered a compelling keynote addressing the scientific validation of mangrove ecosystems and sustainable pathways forward. Adding a crucial policy perspective, environmental lawyer and activist Dr. Jagath Gunawardhena highlighted the current rules and regulations aimed at safeguarding mangroves. Additionally, Mr. Duglas Thesera, Director of the Pambala Mangrove Museum, shared insights from the museum’s initiatives in mangrove education, awareness, and community engagement.
30 university students actively participated in the workshop, gaining valuable exposure to expert discussions and contributing fresh perspectives on mangrove sustainability.
This collaborative workshop underscored the importance of integrating science, policy, and community efforts to ensure the long-term conservation of mangrove ecosystems (Read more…)
Workshop on “Understanding Plastics and Solutions for a Sustainable Future
The Centre for Environmental and Sustainable Development (CESSD) organized a workshop titled “Understanding Plastics and Solutions for a Sustainable Future” on June 5, 2025. This workshop was held in celebration of World Environment Day and took place at the Faculty of Health Sciences Auditorium.
The event was conducted in collaboration with the Institute of Environmental Professionals Sri Lanka (IEPSL) and supported by Cleantech (Pvt) Ltd. The theme of the workshop was “Ending Plastic Pollution.”
The event began with an inauguration ceremony featuring addresses by Dr. Yohan Mahagamage, Director of CESSD; Senior Professor P.M.C. Thilakarathne, Vice Chancellor of OUSL; Mr. Asela Iddawela, President of IEPSL; and Dr. Kapila Mahesh Rajapaksha, Environmental Specialist at SACEP. Following the launch of the OUSL Plastic Policy, a series of technical sessions covered topics including
- Introduction to Plastics and Microplastics “Plastics in Our Lives: From Innovation to Pollution”- Dr. Yohan Mahagamage – Director, Centre for Environmental Studies and Sustainable Development (CESSD).
- Policy and Regulations to Curb Plastic Pollution “Turning the Tide: Laws and Policies for Plastic Reduction”- Mrs. Shyamani Periyapperuma Actg. Deputy Director General (Waste Mgt) Central Environmental Authority,
- Plastic Waste Management “From Bin to Better: Strategies for Plastic Waste Management in Sri Lanka”- Dr. Randika Jayasinghe Research Fellow (Plastics and Waste Specialist) UNSW Centre for Sustainable Development Reform,
- Plastic Recycling Technologies and Innovations “Reimagining Plastics: Circular Economy and Recycling Solutions”- Mr. Kasun Thennakoon Head Circular Economy Services at Cleantech.
The Workshop will conduct for 30 selected students.After the Workshop, Participants Attended to the Factory Visit to Eco-Spindles Sri Lanka.
The event brought together academics, professionals, students, and industry representatives to discuss the life cycle of plastics, sustainable waste management practices, policy frameworks, and innovative recycling solutions.Key highlights of the workshop included the launch of the OUSL Plastic Policy, technical presentations, and a panel discussion. The event successfully encouraged knowledge sharing and inspired participants to take meaningful action toward a plastic-free and sustainable future
The event was conducted in collaboration with the Institute of Environmental Professionals Sri Lanka (IEPSL) and supported by Cleantech (Pvt) Ltd. The theme of the workshop was “Ending Plastic Pollution.”
Key resource persons included Dr. Yohan Mahagamage – Director, Centre for Environmental Studies and Sustainable Development (CESSD)Senior Prof. P.M.C. Thilakarathne – Vice Chancellor, OUSL,Mr. Asela Iddawela – President, IEPSL,Dr. Kapila Mahesh Rajapaksha – Environmental Specialist, SACEP. who provided expert insights on the subject matter.After the Workshop, Participants Attended to the Factory Visit to Eco-Spindles Sri Lanka.
The event brought together academics, professionals, students, and industry representatives to discuss the life cycle of plastics, sustainable waste management practices, policy frameworks, and innovative recycling solutions.
Key highlights of the workshop included the launch of the OUSL Plastic Policy, technical presentations, and a panel discussion. The event successfully encouraged knowledge sharing and inspired participants to take meaningful action toward a plastic-free and sustainable future (Read more…)
Workshop on University Rankings
The Centre for Environmental Studies and Sustainable Development (CESSD) of the Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL), together with Institute of Environmental Professionals Sri Lanka (IEPSL), hosted a two-day workshop titled “Uplifting Environmental Sustainability Performances to Increase University Ranking” on February 20–21, 2025, at the Open University of Sri Lanka in Nawala.The key resource person for the workshop is Dr. Chalaka Fernando, the Sustainability Manager of the Australian National University. As this is a two-day workshop, a total of eleven resource persons will be contributing, including several esteemed professionals from diverse academic and professional backgrounds. These include Ms. Clare de Castella (The Australian National University), Ms. Hiruni Rathwatta (Rajarata University of Sri Lanka), Ms. Warunika Hettiarachchi (Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka), Dr. Nuwan Gunarathne (University of Sri Jayewardenepura), and Prof. Mangala Yatawara (University of Kelaniya), Dr. Yohan Mahagamage – Director, Centre for Environmental Studies and Sustainable Development (CESSD).Total of 47 participants from various universities have registered for the workshop.(Read more…)
Workshop on Enhancing University Environmental Compliance
The Centre for Environmental Studies and Sustainable Development organized a workshop on Enhancing University Environmental Compliance in partnership with the Institution of Environmental Professionals Sri Lanka (IEPSL) and the Central Environmental Authority (CEA). The workshop was held on May 14, 2024 at the Central Environmental Authority (CEA).This workshop specifically focus on times higher education impact ranking and QS world university rankings.
The workshop brought together representatives from leading Sri Lankan universities to explore strategies for embedding sustainability into university operations. Dr. Chalaka Fernando from the Australian National University led the sessions, providing key insights on improving environmental compliance and enhancing institutional rankings through sustainable practices. Discussions focused on promoting green campus initiatives, environmental stewardship, and aligning sustainability efforts with global ranking criteria.Approximately 80 participants from 18 universities across the island attended.
The event fostered valuable knowledge exchange and concluded with a strong commitment to advance environmental sustainability within Sri Lankan higher education institutions. This workshop marks a significant step towards integrating sustainability as a core value in the country’s universities.
The workshop brought together representatives from leading Sri Lankan universities to explore strategies for embedding sustainability into university operations. Dr. Chalaka Fernando from the Australian National University led the sessions, providing key insights on improving environmental compliance and enhancing institutional rankings through sustainable practices. Discussions focused on promoting green campus initiatives, environmental stewardship, and aligning sustainability efforts with global ranking criteria.
The event fostered valuable knowledge exchange and concluded with a strong commitment to advance environmental sustainability within Sri Lankan higher education institutions. This workshop marks a significant step towards integrating sustainability as a core value in the country’s universities. (Read more…)
Pre-Conference Workshop of International Research Conference-OUSL
The Pre-Conference Workshop organized by the Centre for Environmental Studies and Sustainable Development (CESSD), in association with the International Research Conference (IRC) of the Open University of Sri Lanka, was successfully held on the 5th and 6th of November 2024. The two-day event featured a lecture series on November 5th, followed by a field visit to the Kadolkale Mangrove Forest in Negombo on November 6th. Themed “Reviving Coastal Ecosystems: Taxonomy, Threats, Conservation Strategies & GIS/Remote Sensing Applications,” the lecture series was delivered by distinguished experts including Prof. K.Kandasamy (Annamalai University), India, Prof. Sewwandi Jayakody (Wayamba University of Sri Lanka), Dr. Manoj Prasanna (Biodiversity Secretariat, Ministry of Environment, Sri Lanka), and Dr. Buddika Madurapperuma (The Open University of Sri Lanka). With strong participation from academics, researchers, and students—both in person and via online platforms—the workshop fostered valuable knowledge exchange and highlighted the critical importance of conserving coastal ecosystems through science-based strategies and technological tools. (Read more…)
Workshop on UI GreenMetric Rankings
A focused workshop on the UI GreenMetric World University Rankings was held on 19th December 2024 at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL). The session, conducted by Dr. Yohan Mahagamage from the Centre for Environmental Studies and Sustainable Development (CESSD), provided an insightful introduction to the UI GreenMetric Rankings—a global system that evaluates universities based on six key sustainability categories: Infrastructure, Energy and Climate Change, Waste, Water, Transportation, and Education & Research. Focusing on practical strategies to improve OUSL’s environmental performance and position in green university rankings, the workshop encouraged participants to take meaningful action. Guided by the theme “Small Actions Today Lead to a Greener Future,” the event inspired faculty members to embrace sustainable practices and actively contribute to building a greener, more eco-conscious campus. (Read more…)
Mangrove Museum Field Visit 2025
As part of the International Conference on Mangrove for Sustainability (ICMS) 2025, participants took part in an inspiring field visit to the Lanka Mangrove Museum in Pambala on July 24th This immersive experience offered both local and international attendees a unique opportunity to explore the world’s first dedicated mangrove museum.40 participants participated for the field visit including Prof.Kathiresan Kandasamy, who served as a key resource person. Guided tours, interactive exhibits, and serene boat rides through mangrove channels highlighted the ecological importance of mangroves and their role in coastal protection, carbon sequestration, and community livelihoods. Engaging with local communities and experts, participants gained firsthand insight into sustainable practices and the urgent need for mangrove conservation in the face of climate change. The tour emphasized the strong connection between mangroves and local livelihoods. Participants met community members who shared experiences of sustainable fishing, eco-tourism, and small-scale aquaculture practices that rely on healthy mangrove ecosystems.
During the visit, participants discussed major environmental challenges, including deforestation, pollution, and the effects of climate change. These conversations highlighted the urgent need to promote sustainable management practices to protect mangrove ecosystems and support the communities that depend on them.The visit was a memorable highlight of the conference, reinforcing the vital connection between mangroves, people, and the planet. (Read more…)
Factory Visit to Eco-Spindles Sri Lanka – Practical Insights into Plastic Recycling
Following the World Environment Day 2025 workshop, participants visited Eco-Spindles Sri Lanka on 05 June 2025, for a firsthand look at industrial-scale plastic recycling in action. Guided by Mr. Nilesh Senarathna, the tour showcased the company’s innovative process of transforming post-consumer PET plastic waste into high-quality yarn products. From waste collection to pelletizing and yarn production, attendees explored each stage of the circular economy model. The visit reinforced the workshop’s key messages on sustainability and offered practical insights into scalable solutions for plastic pollution. The day concluded with certificate presentations, making the experience both educational and inspiring for students and professionals alike.80 students were participated for the Field Visit. The visit highlighted how innovative technology and sustainable manufacturing can transform plastic waste into marketable products, reinforcing the themes discussed during the workshop. (Read more…)
Field Trip to Madu Ganga Estuary – A Highlight of the International Conference on Mangrove for Sustainability (ICMS) 2024
As part of the International Conference on Mangrove for Sustainability (ICMS) 2024 program, participants took part in an enriching field trip to the Madu Ganga estuary on July 24th. This immersive experience offered both local and international attendees a rare opportunity to explore the rich biodiversity and ecological significance of mangrove ecosystems in their natural setting. Guided by environmental experts, participants navigated the estuary via a tranquil boat ride, witnessing the complex root systems of mangroves, diverse aquatic habitats, and the intricate interdependence of species. The journey also included visits to small islands where traditional practices such as cinnamon cultivation and sustainable fishing continue to thrive, showcasing the deep connection between local communities and mangrove conservation. Engaging discussions highlighted the ongoing threats to these ecosystems—such as deforestation and pollution—while reinforcing the importance of sustainable management and community involvement. A field visit to the Madu Ganga Estuary was conducted, featuring a unique fish therapy experience for participants. A total of 55 participants took part in the field trip including academics, researchers and university students.The field trip left a lasting impression, underscoring the resilience of mangroves and the critical need for their protection in the face of environmental challenges. (Read more…)
Kadolkale Mangrove Reserve Field Visit – the International Research Conference (IRC) 2024
A successful field visit to the Kadolkale Mangrove Reserve was held as part of the Pre-Conference Workshop of the International Research Conference (IRC) 2024 On November 6, 2024. Organized with the guidance of the National Aquatic Resources Research & Development Agency (NARA), the visit brought together nearly 100 participants, including academics, researchers, university students, and school children. This hands-on learning experience bridged the gap between theory and practice, offering participants a deeper understanding of mangrove ecosystems. The visit was enriched by insights from three esteemed experts—Prof. Kathireshan Kandasamy -Annamalai University, India, Dr. Buddika Madurapperuma, and Dr. K.A.R.S. Perera -The Open University of Sri Lanka—who shared their expertise on the ecological significance of mangroves in coastal protection, biodiversity conservation, and climate change mitigation. Through direct engagement with the environment, participants gained valuable knowledge about the unique flora and fauna of the region and the pressing challenges these ecosystems face. The visit fostered meaningful dialogue, collaboration, and a renewed commitment to sustainable resource management and environmental conservation. (Read more…)
Academic Field Exursion
The Centre for Environmental Studies and Sustainable Development (CESSD) organized a two-day field excursion for academics, demonstrating our commitment to sustainable environmental education. This field excursion organized on 25th and 26th of September 2024, featuring visits to Minintale Monastery Complex, Kaḷudiya Pokuṇa, Riṭigala Monastery Complex and the sacred city of Anuradhapura.
The field excursion offered a unique opportunity for participants to connect with nature, explore biodiversity hotspots, and experience cultural immersion. As an institution dedicated to sustainable development, we believe that connecting with natural and cultural environments provides invaluable insights, fosters meaningful connections, and reinforces our responsibility in biodiversity conservation and environmental stewardship.(Read more…)