News
Prof. Malavige appointed President Elect of International Society for Infectious Diseases
Professor Neelika Malavige, of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, has been appointed as the President-Elect of the International Society for Infectious Diseases (ISID). She will assume the presidency in 2027, with each term lasting two years.
Professor Malavige has made significant contributions to the field of infectious diseases, particularly in COVID-19 testing, sequencing, and identifying virus strains. Her research has been pivotal in understanding the molecular epidemiology of SARS-CoV-2 in Sri Lanka.
In recognition of her impactful research, Professor Malavige was listed among the world’s top 2% of scientists, according to the Elsevier-Stanford rankings.
Additionally, Professor Malavige has extensively researched dengue pathogenesis, focusing on its immunopathogenesis, biomarkers, and immune correlates of protection. Her work has been instrumental in advancing clinical trials and understanding the disease’s molecular mechanisms.
This prestigious appointment not only highlights Professor Malavige’s individual achievements, but also brings significant recognition to Sri Lanka and the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. Her leadership role in ISID underscores the global impact of research and scholarship emerging from our institution and emphasizes the vital contributions of scientists from diverse backgrounds in addressing infectious diseases worldwide.
As President-Elect, Professor Malavige will play a crucial role in shaping ISID’s strategic initiatives, fostering international collaborations, and advancing research and education in infectious diseases. Her appointment reflects a growing acknowledgment of the importance of diverse perspectives in global health leadership.
“The University of Sri Jayewardenepura extends its heartfelt congratulations to Professor Malavige on this remarkable achievement and reaffirms its commitment to supporting groundbreaking research and leadership in the field of infectious diseases,” the University said.
News
Financial allocations for the development of infrastructure in provincial schools have been provided to all provinces – PM
Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya stated that the necessary financial allocations for the development of infrastructure in provincial schools have been provided to all provinces. She emphasized that these funds must be utilized effectively for school development and requested that relevant authorities submit proposals to address existing shortcomings in school infrastructure.
The Prime Minister made these remarks during a cordial meeting with Muslim women in the Wellawaya area on 1st of March.
Subsequently, the Prime Minister met with the Chief Sanghanayake of the Uva Wellassa region and the Chief Incumbent of Yudaganawa Rajamaha Viharaya, Venerable Rajakeeya Panditha Most Venerable Galtemwatte Nandarathana Nayaka Thero, and briefed him on the current progress of the new education reforms.
She further stated that, while ensuring due recognition for vocational education, steps are being taken to develop 50 vocational training centers equipped with modern courses, covering all 25 districts of the country. She also noted that new education reforms will be introduced for Grade 6 starting in 2027, and that the printing of new textbooks will be entrusted to the Educational Publications Department of the Ministry of Education.
The occasion was attended by Uva Province Governor Attorney-at-Law Kapila Jayasekara, Deputy Minister of Trade, Commerce and Food Security R.M. Jayawardhana, Member of Parliament Ruwan Wijewardene, local government representatives, the Buttala Divisional Secretary and the District Secretary.
[Prime Minister’s Media Division]
The Department of Immigration and Emmigration has decided effective from 28th February 2026, to grant a free fourteen (14) day visa extension to all tourists who are unable to leave Sri Lanka due to flight cancellations. 
The Maldives Coast Guard Ship Huravee arrived at the Port of Colombo for replenishment purposes on 02 Mar 26. The visiting ship was welcomed by the Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) in compliance with time-honoured naval traditions.
The ship is a 48.9m long Offshore Patrol Vessel which is commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Ahmed Nafiu Mohamed.
Meanwhile, the ship’s crew is scheduled to visit several tourist attractions in the city of Colombo, during their stay in the island.
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