The inaugural ‘SLIIT SCIFEST 2023’, the annual Science Day and Exhibition, organized by the Faculty of Humanities and Sciences at SLIIT, which took place recently, was a resounding success, captivating the minds of young learners and participants, igniting passion for exploration and discovery in the areas of Social and Applied sciences.
Based on the theme ‘Wonders in Science’, SCIFEST 2023, drew the active participation of over 250 students from 12 different schools creating students’ enthusiasm towards the world of science. The Faculty of Humanities and Sciences intends to establish SLIIT SCIFEST as an annual event and a fixture on the SLIIT calendar in the future.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by Dr. T. M. S. G. Tennakoon, Director, Research and Development, Link Natural (Pvt) Ltd, who was the chief guest for the event. Prof. Preethi Udagama, Cadre Chair & Senior Professor, Head of Department of Zoology and Environment Sciences, University of Colombo was the distinguished guest. Prof. Nimal Rajapakse, Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor SLIIT, Dr. Malitha Wijesundara, Dean, Faculty of Humanities & Sciences, Prof. Rahula Attalage, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Academic, Prof. Colin N Peiris, Director/Academic Development & QA, Faculty of Humanities & Sciences and other faculty members were also in attendance.
Senior Deputy Vice-chancellor and Provost of SLIIT, Prof. Nimal Rajapakse, said, “I extend my appreciation to all those instrumental in making ‘SLIIT SCIFEST 2023’ a reality. The Dean, Head of the School, Chair of the organizing committee and its members, along with the Faculty of Humanities & Sciences staff, have collectively orchestrated an exceptional event that stands as a testament to our institution’s commitment to fostering intellectual curiosity and exploration. With over 250 enthusiastic students from diverse schools participating, SLIIT SCIFEST has opened a path for the youth to many wonders of the sciences. Therefore, as we celebrate the success of this year’s event, let us work hard for more such impactful events in the future.”
The SLIIT Faculty of Humanities and Sciences comprises the Department of Applied Sciences, School of Nursing, School of Law, School of Psychology, Department of Mathematics, and the English Language Teaching Unit. All departments/schools of the faculty collaborated to organize the event, which featured a series of interactive lectures, an exhibition covering various areas of science, displays showcasing different aspects of biology, chemistry, and physics, as well as engaging and immersive activities. The event welcomed participation from Ordinary Level (O/L) and Advanced Level (A/L) students.
Dr. Malitha Wijesundara, Dean, Faculty of Humanities & Sciences, stated, “We are pleased to have organized the inaugural SCIFEST 2023, which we believe will serve as a catalyst, creating a deeper interest in science and igniting a passion for innovation. In the next version of SCIFEST, schools will be given the opportunity to showcase their creativity in solving real-life problems through science.
A highlight of SLIIT SCIFEST 2023 was the final round of the inter-school science quiz competition. Previously, preliminary rounds were conducted online. Six schools participated in the competition, with Vidura College and Leeds International College qualifying for the grand finale. After a spirited competition, Vidura College emerged as the victorious champion.
Dr. Charitha Jayaruk added, “SLIIT SCIFEST 2023 was a great success. It served as a platform to actively inspire young minds towards the wonders of science. We are pleased that the event will become an annual feature on SLIIT’s calendar.”
SCIFEST 2023 also featured engaging sessions conducted by distinguished professionals in various scientific fields, such as biology, physics and chemistry, aimed at inspiring and enlightening the young minds present. Prof. Sriyani E. Peiris, conducted a session on plant biotechnology, Prof. Rexy Rosa addressed gathering on physics, especially focusing on generating electricity and Dr. Charitha Jayaruk conducted a session on nanotechnology for school students.
The exhibition showcased a total of several stalls, including seven from applied science subjects and one each from the School of Law, School of Psychology and School of Nursing. Among the applied science stalls, topics covered included chemistry, plant physiology, tissue culture, human physiology, immunology, physics, nanotechnology, and microbiology.
Each stall demonstrated its respective field through posters, videos displayed on smart TVs, and interactive exhibits. School students had the opportunity to engage in hands-on experiments, providing them with a practical experience that sparked their interest and enthusiasm. This hands-on approach offered a glimpse into the kind of experiences they can expect as they embark on their academic journeys, fostering a connection between theory and practice.
Participants were also provided a guided tour of the faculty’s four state-of-the-art laboratories, namely, Chemistry, Molecular Biology, Tissue Culture, Physics, and Nursing Skills and Nutrition.