The 08th Installation Ceremony of Rotaract Club of Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo was held on 16th September, marking the commencement of the Rotaract Year 2024-2025. The ceremony symbolized a transition of leadership and a renewed commitment to service, fellowship, and professional development. Proceedings began at 7.09 p.m. with the traditional oil lamp lighting ceremony, followed by the house being called to order by Rtr. Ashvni Chandrakumar. The flag salutation and Four-Way Test were conducted by Rtr. Imam Ahamad.
The Secretary’s Report highlighted a year of significant growth and achievement. Membership expanded from 45 to 77 active members, reflecting successful recruitment and orientation initiatives. The club conducted 11 general meetings with an attendance rate exceeding 85%, maintaining strong member engagement. Fellowship activities such as the Halloween-themed Escape Room, virtual quiz, and Paduru Party fostered camaraderie and inter-club relationships.
Community Service projects formed the backbone of the club’s activities. Key initiatives included Beyond Boundaries, which empowered amputees through comprehensive support, alongside a Blood Donation Drive, Project CanCon for breast cancer awareness, and the Spectra Walkathon, which raised funds and awareness for neurodiversity. The club also undertook projects addressing maternal and child health, environmental sustainability, and child protection. International and professional development avenues were strengthened through projects such as Culture Fest 25, Eve’s Echo, and Tech-Trail Blazers 2.0. Financial transparency and sustainability were emphasized, with Spectra raising over LKR 385,000 through effective fundraising.
Outgoing President Rtr. IPP Navaneeth Krishna reflected on a fulfilling Rotaract year, emphasizing that the journey was defined not merely by projects, but by people, passion, and purpose. He expressed gratitude to his board, members, Community Service Directors, parent Rotary, advisors, seniors, and supporting clubs, while confidently handing over leadership to the incoming team.
Incoming President Rtr. Varahini Kamalarajan delivered an inspiring address, highlighting leadership as a shared responsibility shaped by collective effort. She expressed appreciation to the outgoing board for setting a strong foundation, acknowledged the mentorship of Rtr. IPP Navaneeth Krishna, and recognized the steadfast support of her Secretary, Rtr. Sezhnu Jagathaparan. Introducing the new board, she encouraged members to challenge themselves, step beyond their comfort zones, and work together to create lasting impact. Her address concluded with the motivating call: “This is our time, our year, our opportunity. Let’s make it unforgettable.” The session was enlivened by a humorous video montage presented by fellow Rotaractors.
The District Rotaract Representative commended the club’s ability to balance demanding medical academics with meaningful community service and encouraged continued collaboration in district-level initiatives. The Chief Guest, Vidya Jyothi Prof. Vajira H.W. Dissanayake, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, emphasized inclusive leadership, compassion in medical practice, and the importance of nurturing competence, care, and empathy through Rotaract involvement.
The ceremony concluded with the installation of the Executive Committee and Board of Directors for 2024/25, led by President Rtr. Varahini Kamalarajan and Secretary Rtr. Jagathaparan Sezhnu, setting the stage for another impactful year of service and leadership.
Written By: –
Rtr. Nethuli Mehara
(Senior Blog Team Member 2025-26)
