The Rotaract Club of the International Institute of Technology (IIT) marked the beginning of another year of impactful service and leadership with its 16th Installation Ceremony, which was held on the 17th of August 2025 at the Centre for Banking Studies. The ceremony commenced at 3:40 p.m. with the traditional lighting of the oil lamp, followed by a warm welcome address delivered by the Project Chairperson, Rtr. Sasun Wijerathna. The formal proceedings were initiated with the calling of the house to order, the flag salutation, and the recital of the Four-Way Test, also led by Rtr. Sasun Wijerathna. Among the attendees were dedicated members, including Sewmini Umesha and Sarani Uththara Wijayadasa, who contributed significantly to the success of the event.
The Secretary’s Report for the Rotaract year 2024/2025 highlighted a series of remarkable accomplishments by the club across various avenues. In terms of community service, the club successfully executed the project “Kanchalangana,” a five-day initiative focusing on disability awareness and inclusion, in collaboration with eight other clubs. Environmental sustainability was also a priority, with members planting 1,500 pinecones at Agra. Furthermore, the club extended its support to healthcare by providing medical supplies and nutritious meals to more than 200 patients, aided by doctors and pharmacists. On an international level, the club undertook nine initiatives in China, two community-based projects, and over 30 independent initiatives. Signature programs such as “British Councilor,” funded through the US Association for Community Services, and “FOSSIL,” which promoted global cultural understanding, were among the highlights of the year.
The club also focused on professional development and career guidance by organizing 11 initiatives, including the notable Startup Education program, which featured a prize pool of 168,000 books. Additionally, a Concrete Readiness Workshop with more than 85 interactive sessions and specialized leadership training programs was conducted in collaboration with various Rotaract Clubs in Kuala Lumpur and other regions. On the recreational side, the club promoted physical well-being and team spirit through a variety of sporting events, including cricket, futsal, and basketball tournaments under the Crack Cups banner, featuring 18 matches across multiple tournaments. Initiatives such as the “Super Session” fitness program and outdoor activities like “Saban Flat” further enhanced member engagement. Membership development remained strong throughout the year, with the club boasting 95 active members, supported by several additional groups and notable participation in district initiatives.
The outgoing President, Rtr. Swathima Amara Saharan, addressed the gathering with a heartfelt reflection on the club’s journey during her tenure. She expressed her gratitude to the members, advisors, and Board of Directors for their unwavering commitment and teamwork, which were instrumental in the success of various projects. She emphasized that every milestone achieved was the result of collective effort and unity. In her closing remarks, she extended her best wishes to the incoming president and the newly elected Board, expressing her confidence that the club would continue to achieve even greater heights in the upcoming year.
The incoming President, Rtr. Himaza Zahra, in her address, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to lead the club in the year ahead. She outlined her vision of creating a happy, inclusive, and well-connected community within the club. Appreciating the efforts of past leaders, she called upon all members to participate actively and contribute towards making the year a successful and memorable one.
The newly appointed Executive Committee and Board of Directors for 2025/2026 include a strong and talented team ready to steer the club toward new heights. Key positions are held by Vice President Rtr. Thaviru Hettiarachchi, Secretary Rtr. Krishanth Arawindakumar, and Treasurer Rtr. Sachira Delankawala. The board also features Community Service Vice Director Rtr. Yalinda Jayawarden, Joint International Service Directors Rtr. Ishara Perera and Rtr. Disath Liyanage, and Joint Professional Development Directors Rtr. Sakthitharan Karthganesan, Rtr. Suha Riza Mohomad, and Rtr. Sandupama Wedamulla. Public relations efforts will be driven by Joint PR Directors Rtr. Naiser Rishad, Rtr. Sanuda Lokuge, and Rtr. Sasiru Kankanamge, while sports initiatives will be managed by Joint Sports Directors Rtr. Aathif Asmi, Rtr. Dulharahulawa, and Rtr. Harish Prashanna. Additionally, Membership Director Rtr. Udula Liyanaarachchi and Editor Rtr. Vonara Perera will play vital roles in enhancing engagement and communication within the club.
The event also featured inspiring speeches by special guests. The Assistant District Rotaract Chair, Rtr. Abirami Gunarathnan, congratulated the outgoing president for her exemplary service and welcomed the new board with encouragement to remain passionate, curious, and socially impactful. The Chief Guest, Professor P. S. M. Gunarathne from the Business Faculty of IIT, spoke about this year’s theme, “Resilience through Service,” and its relevance to the Rotaract movement. Using the example of Google Maps, he encouraged members to overcome challenges by finding alternative paths and reminded them that “Unity is not uniform,” highlighting the importance of diversity and collective effort in achieving success.
The ceremony concluded with a lighthearted segment that included fun videos showcasing the personalities and teamwork of the club members. This vibrant conclusion reflected the strong fellowship and camaraderie that define the Rotaract Club of IIT. The 16th Installation Ceremony was not only a celebration of past achievements but also a pledge towards future endeavors, reinforcing the club’s dedication to service, leadership, and meaningful impact.
Written By: –
Rtr. Nethuli Mehara
(Senior Blog Team Member 2025-26)
