
Future Challenge – Higher Education Forum, a significant project by the Rotaract Club of the Faculty of Science, University of Colombo, has been empowering students in their higher education and career pathways since 2003.
The forum’s latest edition marked its return on February 6th, 2025 with engaging interactive sessions, stalls and thought provoking panel discussions held throughout the day. Representatives from esteemed organizations including Edlocate, Milliman, IBMBB and the Postgraduate Study Unit of the Faculty of Science, University of Colombo unveiled the various pathways to postgraduate achievements.
In collaboration with the Career Guidance Unit of the Faculty of Science, University of Colombo, Mr. Chamara Munasinghe conducted a session on “Mental Wellness: thriving through stress”. This insightful session offered crucial guidance on achieving mental wellbeing through positive physical practices. Mr.
Munasinghe’s background as a nationally certified physical fitness trainer, a FISA Level 1 rowing coach and his extensive education in the field of Sport and Exercise Science ideally positioned him to lead this session.
Edlocate, in partnership with Macquarie University of Sydney and the University of Adelaide, guided students on “Study Abroad – Expand YourHorizons with the Top Australian Universities.” The session featured a presentation on ‘Multiplying Your Potential for Success with Macquarie University’ by Mr. Tharuka Dissanayake, Country Manager – Sri Lanka, Maldives and Bhutan – Macquarie University, and another on ‘Invest in Your Future and Study a Postgraduate Degree with the University of Adelaide, South Australia’ by Mr. Hemant Singh, Senior Manager – Student Recruitment | Future Student – The University of Adelaide, providing insights into higher education opportunities in Australia. Students who were passionate about pursuing their higher studies at a reputable Australian university eagerly engaged with the representatives. Ms. Manesha Ponnamperuma, Assistant Director Operations at Edlocate (Pvt) Ltd, also shared her valuable perspectives on studying internationally. Ms. Devindi Samaranayake, Senior Actuarial Associate at Milliman Pvt. Ltd., led an engaging session titled ‘Stand Out with Industry-Recognized Credentials’, where she offered valuable insights into the actuarial field and career growth.

The day concluded with a panel discussion on ‘Postgraduate Pathways and Research Prospects,’ led by respected senior lecturers from the Faculty of Science, University of Colombo. Dr. Pasan Fernando of the Department of Plant Science, Dr. Gayathri N. Silva of the Department of Chemistry, Dr. Gayan Dharmarathna of the Department of Statistics, and Dr. Lakmal Weerawarne of the Department of
Physics shared their knowledge and experience on the path to academic and career excellence. Students learned about trending study fields, worldwide advancements in science, and strategies for choosing their best future pathways during the discussion. The Q&A session between senior lecturers and students
provided a valuable opportunity for students to clarify their doubts by directly engaging with experts.
At the end of the day, students discovered new opportunities to succeed in overseas higher education and careers, inspiring them to take concrete steps towards their international academic and professional goals, marking this project as another important milestone in its ongoing journey.
By: Rtr. Lavanga Jayathilaka
Image Credit: Rtr. Randika Ambanpitiya, Rtr. Oshini Jayathunga https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19oSqemzQ6/
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