News & Events
News & Events
The Inauguration Ceremony for the 2025/2026 Academic Year of the Post Graduate Institute of Archaeology (PGIAR)
"Commencing a New Academic Journey to Expand the Horizons of Knowledge"
The Inauguration Ceremony for the 2025/2026 Academic Year of the Post Graduate Institute of Archaeology (PGIAR) was held today, marking a successful beginning to a new chapter. We extend our warmest congratulations to the new scholars who have joined us to explore our heritage and history through a scientific lens!
This prestigious event was presided over by Dr. Arjuna Thantilage, Director of the PGIAR, and was enriched by the presence of renowned experts in the field.
Keynote & Special Addresses:
Inaugural Address: Dr. Arjuna Thantilage (Director, PGIAR)
Guest Lecture: Emeritus Professor Jagath Weerasinghe
Course Introduction: Senior Professor Raj Somadeva
The event was gracefully conducted and moderated by Dr. Sonali Premachandra, ensuring a seamless and professional flow to the proceedings.
Distinguished Guests in Attendance:
The ceremony was graced by former Directors, Emeritus Professor Jagath Weerasinghe and Senior Professor Gamini Adikari. We were also honored by the presence of Senior Professor Raj Somadeva, Professor Dhananjaya Gamlath, Dr. T.L. Premathilake, Dr. Ranjith Dissanayake, and Dr. Prasanna Ranabahu.
Expression of Gratitude:
The Director, Dr. Arjuna Thantilage, wishes to express his sincere gratitude to the staff of the Post Graduate Institute of Archaeology and the alumni of the Tourism course for their immense support in making this inaugural session a grand success.
History is not merely the past; it is the foundation upon which we build the future. We wish our new students the strength and inspiration to successfully navigate this academic journey!
A solemn 'Seth Pirith' chanting ceremony was held today at the Post Graduate Institute of Archaeology (PGIAR) to invoke blessings upon the newly appointed Director, Dr. Arjuna Thantilage, who assumed duties on January 13, 2026.
The ceremony was conducted under the patronage of the Most Venerable Aludeniye Subodhi Thero, Chief Incumbent of the Seruwavila Mangala Raja Maha Vihara, alongside the Maha Sangha. The spiritual gathering aimed to bless Professor Thantilage’s new tenure and ensure the institute's future prosperity.
Dr. Arjuna Thantilage has been appointed as the new Director of the Postgraduate Institute of Archaeology (PGIAR), University of Kelaniya in Sri Lanka, effective from January 13th, 2026.
Lecture Start Date: March 7, 2026. for New Academic Year 2025/2026
Weekend Schedule: Regular teaching sessions for Postgraduate Diploma, MA, and MSc programs will be held on both Saturdays and Sundays.
First weekend: March 7 (Saturday) & March 8 (Sunday).
Venue: Lectures are held at the PGIAR main premises, located at No. 407, Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 07.