The Rotaract Club of Faculty of Law, University of Colombo successfully conducted its 15th Installation Ceremony, marking the conclusion of RI year 2025-26 and the commencement of a new year of leadership, service and fellowship. The ceremony brought together distinguished guests, Rotaractors, past leaders, members and well-wishers to celebrate the achievements of the previous year and welcome the newly appointed Board for RI year 2026-27.
The ceremony commenced at 7.12 p.m. with the traditional lighting of the oil lamp, followed by the calling of the house to order, flag salutation and Four-Way Test. The occasion was graced by Chief Guest Prof. Dr. Nishantha Sampath Punchihewa, Dean of the Faculty of Law, University of Colombo, Guest of Honour Rtn. Alagan Thavaraj, President of the Rotary Club of Colombo East, PHF Rtn. Rtr. PP Jude Shannon Lucian, District Rotaract Representative, Rtr. PP Nazmi Mahamood, Immediate Past District Rotaract Representative, Rtr. PP Santhamurthy Baalamurthy, District Rotaract Representative-Elect, and other distinguished Rotary and Rotaract representatives.
Reflecting on a Year of Service,
The Secretary’s Report presented by Rtr. Sandithi Dias highlighted the achievements of RI year 2025-26, during which the club successfully completed 44 projects across 10 avenues, including 16 joint projects with other Rotaract clubs.
Community Service recorded the highest number of initiatives, with 18 projects. These included Project Senehase Nagam, which focused on visits to children’s and elders’ homes, Project Maatha 8.0, which addressed maternal wellbeing and mental health, as well as Project Kandurata Aurudu, Project Apeksha and Project Pivithuru.
Club Service conducted nine projects, including Project Law Dansala and Project Love Diary, while initiatives such as Holi Diwali and Project Ekamuthu strengthened fellowship, unity and inclusivity. Professional Development and International Service also contributed several initiatives, including Project Hope in Bloom, a cultural exchange between India and Sri Lanka. Environmental Services continued its commitment to sustainability through Project Thuru, a nationwide tree-planting initiative and Project Husma.
The club’s efforts were recognised at the 36th Rotaract District Assembly, where it received the Silver Award for Most Outstanding Club Service Initiative, the Silver Award for Most Outstanding Newsletter and the 100% Citation Completion Award, alongside recognition through the President of the Month and Secretary of the Month awards.
A Presidential Year Concludes,
Outgoing President Rtr. Nelumika Malgammana reflected on her completed presidential term, expressing appreciation for the achievements of the year and acknowledging the support of the previous and current leadership. The importance of a committed and supportive team in overcoming challenges was emphasised, while best wishes were extended to the incoming Board.
Welcoming the New Leadership,
The transition to RI year 2026-27 was formally marked by the introduction of Rtr. Gevindu Pitiduwa Gamage as the incoming President. The handover of the gavel and Charter Certificate symbolised the official assumption of presidential responsibility and the beginning of a new chapter for the club.
In his presidential address, Rtr. Gevindu reflected on his journey within Rotaract and the opportunities it provides for learning, development and personal growth. He expressed appreciation to Rtr. Nelumika Malgammana and the previous Board for establishing a strong foundation for the new administration.
The new presidential theme, “Blue Sapphire,” was introduced as the guiding concept for RI year 2026-27. Inspired by the ability of a Blue Sapphire to shine under pressure, the theme represents the qualities of Truth, Wisdom, Loyalty and Strength.
The new Executive Board includes Rtr. Gevindu Pitiduwa Gamage as President, Rtr. Nelumika Malgammana as Immediate Past President and Vice Presidents Rtr. Chanithi Senesa, Rtr. Sanushika Sooriyabandara, Rtr. Minduli Manawasinghe and Rtr. Kolisha Perera. Rtr. Sahanma Methsarani assumes the role of Secretary, with Rtr. Maheshi Perera as Assistant Secretary, Rtr. Maleesa Sandakini as Treasurer, Rtr. Geesha Walliwala as Assistant Treasurer and Rtr. Natashiya Warnakoolasooriya as Sergeant-at-Arms. The Board of Directors will oversee the club’s editorial, public relations, club service, community service, international service, professional development, environmental, finance, sports and membership portfolios.
A New Year of Possibilities,
The ceremony continued with addresses from distinguished Rotary and Rotaract representatives, including PHF Rtn. Rtr. PP Jude Shannon Lucian, Rtn. PP Praneeth Madhusanka and Rtn. PP Alagan Thavaraj. Chief Guest Prof. Dr. Nishantha Sampath Punchihewa congratulated the newly appointed President and Board, highlighting Rotaract as a platform for meaningful relationships, networking and personal development.
The ceremony concluded with the Vote of Thanks delivered by Rtr. Sahanma Methsarani and a fellowship segment.
The 15th Installation Ceremony represented more than a formal transition of office. It celebrated the achievements of RI year 2025-26 while welcoming a new leadership team and a new vision for the year ahead. With 44 projects completed across 10 avenues, notable District-level recognition and the guiding theme of “Blue Sapphire,” RI year 2026-27 begins with a renewed commitment to striving, resilience and collective achievement.
Written By: –
Rtr. Manuga Herath
(Prospect member 2026-27)
Rtr. Gimasha Nishadhi
(Prospect member 2026-27)
