The University of Moratuwa marked an important milestone in strengthening its postgraduate research community with the establishment of the Postgraduate Research Student Society (PReSS) on 26th February 2026. The Society was formally inaugurated during its first Annual General Meeting (AGM), under the vision of Professor Ruwan Gopura, Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies. The Society, led by Senior Treasurer Dr. Sandun Dassanayake, aims to support and empower postgraduate research students while promoting a collaborative research culture at the University.
PReSS was founded in recognition of the vital role that postgraduate researchers play in advancing knowledge, innovation, and societal development. As postgraduate research extends beyond individual academic achievement, the Society aims to promote scholarly exchange, interdisciplinary collaboration, professional development, and meaningful engagement among postgraduate researchers from all faculties. Its establishment reflects the University's continued commitment to creating an inclusive academic environment that nurtures excellence in research and innovation.
Society objectives include enhancing research skills, facilitating networking opportunities, supporting student wellbeing, promoting ethical research practices, and representing the interests of postgraduate researchers within the University. In doing so, PReSS contributes to enriching the overall postgraduate research experience and fostering a strong sense of academic community.
The inaugural AGM also featured Professor Ajith De Alwis as the keynote speaker, who delivered an inspiring address on “Research with Impact at the University of Moratuwa.” His talk emphasized the importance of aligning research with national and global challenges, encouraging postgraduate researchers to focus on meaningful and impactful scholarly contributions.
Guided by a comprehensive constitution, the society operates through an executive committee representing postgraduate researchers across all faculties, with the guidance of academic patrons and advisors. This governance structure ensures transparency, inclusivity, and effective collaboration while encouraging student leadership and active participation in shaping the society's future.
Looking ahead, PReSS aspires to become a catalyst for academic excellence by organizing research seminars, workshops, networking events, leadership programmes, and interdisciplinary initiatives that contribute to the personal and professional development of postgraduate researchers. As the society embarks on this new journey, it is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening the University's research ecosystem and fostering a dynamic, connected, and globally engaged postgraduate research community.
(The article was compiled by Nilmini Bhagya, Secretary, Postgraduate Research Student Society,
University of Moratuwa)
