The Department of Legal Studies of the Open University of Sri Lanka proudly inaugurated its LLB (Honours) Degree Programme, reaffirming its role as a pioneer in open and distance legal education. The ceremony was graced by distinguished guests, faculty members, parents, past students, and most importantly, the new cohort of LLB students.
The Vice-Chancellor, Senior Prof. P.M.C. Thilakarathne, was warmly welcomed for his visionary leadership and immense support in launching this world-class programme. In his address, he invited students to read Atomic Habits, a book that provides practical guidance on cultivating positive routines and habits—an invaluable resource for personal and professional growth.
The ceremony was further enriched by the presence of Hon. Justice Yasantha Kodagoda, PC, Judge of the Supreme Court of Sri Lanka, who reaffirmed that the LLB Degree Programme of the Department of Legal Studies is the flagship degree programme of the Open University of Sri Lanka. His Lordship encouraged students to embody three key qualities in their studies and future careers:
Setting Priorities
Perseverance
Empathy and Ethical Behaviour
The Department expressed deep gratitude to Professor Anton Piyaratne, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, OUSL, for his continuous support and leadership, as well as to the University’s senior administrators—including the Registrar, Bursar, Senior Assistant Registrars, Directors, the Librarian, and other academic and non-academic staff—for their indispensable contributions.
Special recognition was also given to the academic staff of the Department of Legal Studies, along with academic coordinators, project assistants, and support staff, whose tireless efforts ensured the successful launch of the revised LLB programme. The event was further brightened by the presence of the Law Students’ Union, the Moot Court and Debating Society, and past students, underscoring the strong bonds of community within the Department.
The ceremony concluded with a shared sense of optimism for the future. As the Department welcomed the new cohort, hopes were expressed that these young law students will grow into ethical, resilient, and socially responsible legal professionals—upholding the highest traditions of justice and strengthening the rule of law in Sri Lanka and beyond.
