Goal 01: No poverty
Goal 01: No poverty
Embedded Files
GreenInsight eMagazine [Issue III]
Sustainable Development Goal 1 focuses on ending poverty in all its forms everywhere by 2030. It aims to ensure that all people have equal access to basic resources, services, and opportunities necessary for a decent standard of living. SDG 1 targets include eliminating extreme poverty defined as people living on less than $1.25 a day and reducing national poverty levels by at least half. The goal emphasizes building resilience among vulnerable groups, expanding social protection systems, and promoting inclusive policies that reduce inequalities and empower communities to overcome economic hardship.
The University of Kelaniya is firmly aligned with SDG 1 through its dedication to equitable education, social inclusion, and community support. The university actively assists students from low-income backgrounds through scholarships, bursaries, subsidized facilities, and welfare programmes that reduce financial barriers to higher education. Beyond campus, UOK contributes to poverty alleviation by supporting local entrepreneurship, offering capacity-building initiatives, and engaging in national policy dialogues aimed at fostering sustainable livelihoods and reducing economic disparities.
The Welfare Division plays a vital role in ensuring the well-being and support services for the university community, particularly students. Functioning under the Registrar’s Office, the division is responsible for administering a range of essential services that enhance the quality of campus life and promote student success.
📌 Key Functions and Services:
Student Accommodation: Manages university hostel facilities, providing safe and affordable housing for thousands of students, with a fair selection process based on academic merit, need, and accessibility.
Canteen and Food Services: Oversees food outlets on campus to ensure hygienic, nutritious, and reasonably priced meals for students and staff.
Medical Services: Coordinates access to on-campus healthcare and supports student health and wellness through preventive care and emergency response systems.
Student Financial Assistance: Supports the allocation of Mahapola and Bursary scholarships and assists students in applying for government and university-based financial aid.
Student Transport: Facilitates student transport services, including bus permits and special transportation arrangements for fieldwork or academic activities.
Other Student Welfare Services: Handles issues related to student grievances, counseling referrals, and coordination with external welfare agencies.
Programs
Programs
Low-Income Student Support
Low-Income Student Support
UOK is deeply committed to ensuring equitable access to higher education, particularly for students from economically disadvantaged families. Through a comprehensive support framework, the university provides essential services such as free healthcare, free hostel accommodation, affordable canteen facilities, and financial aid to enable all students to successfully complete their degrees.
Mahapola Scholarship
Mahapola Scholarship
The Mahapola Scholarship program at the University of Kelaniya is administered by the Mahapola Higher Education Scholarship Trust Fund under the Ministry of Higher Education in Sri Lanka. This scholarship is awarded annually to over 5,000 undergraduate students based on academic merit and financial need. It provides financial assistance to support tuition fees, living expenses, and other educational costs, helping students to successfully pursue their higher education.
Other relevant Webpages
Mahapola Scholarship Beneficiaries in 2025
Mahapola Scholarship Beneficiaries in 2025
Bursary
Bursary
The bursary program at the University of Kelaniya provides financial assistance to undergraduate students who do not qualify for the Mahapola Scholarship. Administered through the university’s welfare division, bursaries are awarded annually to over 3,500 students based on financial need and specific selection criteria. This program aims to support students by covering essential educational expenses, ensuring they can continue their studies without financial hardship.
Link: Bursary Application
Other relevant Webpages
Bursary Scholarship Beneficiaries in 2025
Bursary Scholarship Beneficiaries in 2025
Free Student Hostels Accommodation at UOK
Free Student Hostels Accommodation at UOK
The University of Kelaniya is committed to ensuring a safe, inclusive, and student-friendly living environment through its well-managed hostel facilities. Operated under the university’s Welfare Division, the accommodation system provides affordable and secure housing for undergraduate students across all faculties.
With over 4,000 students accommodated annually, the university’s hostel network ensures access to basic amenities, study-friendly environments, and health and safety standards. Priority is given to students based on academic performance, financial need, and travel distance.
UOK hostels are supported by a dedicated team of wardens and sub-wardens who ensure discipline, security, and student welfare. Regular maintenance, health and sanitation measures, and grievance mechanisms are in place to uphold quality standards.
Link: Hostel Eligibility or Welfare Division
Subsidised Meals at Student Canteens
Subsidised Meals at Student Canteens
UOK ensures that every student has access to safe, nutritious, and affordable food through a network of student welfare canteens operating across all faculties. Managed by the Welfare Division and faculty-level canteen committees, these facilities provide balanced meals at subsidised prices, helping to reduce the financial burden on undergraduates from low-income families.
Each canteen maintains high standards of hygiene and food safety while prioritising healthy meal options that support student well-being and academic performance.
Dr. C.W.W. Kannangara Hostel Canteen and Grocery
Bandaranayake Hostel Canteen and Grocery
Yakkaduwe Pragnarama Hostel Canteen and Grocery
Students' Hostel Canteen and Grocery
Staff Canteen
Students' Restroom Canteen
Students' Restroom Milk Bar
Students' Centre Canteen
Science Faculty Canteen
University Milk Bar
Students' Restroom Grocery and Milk Bar
Salon Medical Faculty Hostel Cantee
Medical Faculty Canteen and Milk Bar
Medical Faculty Grocery
Computing and Technology Faculty Canteen
Other Support for Students from the Bottom Financial Quintile
Other Support for Students from the Bottom Financial Quintile
In addition to financial assistance, the Kalana Mithuru Sevana (KMS) Counselling Unit provides personal and mental health counselling, supporting students coping with stress, family responsibilities, and socio-economic challenges. The Career Guidance Unit (CGU) and Centre for Sustainability Solutions (CSS) conduct targeted leadership, employability, and volunteer training programmes including the Sustainability Leadership Training Programme (SLTP) to empower underprivileged students with practical skills and self-confidence for post-graduation success.
Low- or Lower-Middle-Income Countries Student Support
Low- or Lower-Middle-Income Countries Student Support
UOK continues to uphold Sri Lanka’s policy of free public higher education, extending this benefit to foreign students from developing nations through affordable tuition-free undergraduate study opportunities, special international enrolment pathways, and postgraduate research programs offered by the Faculty of Humanities and the Faculty of Medicine. Students from countries such as Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia classified as low- or lower-middle-income nations have been among the primary beneficiaries of these opportunities over the past three years. Through these inclusive admissions and scholarship schemes, UOK fosters South–South academic collaboration and strengthens educational partnerships across Asia.
Centre for International Relations (CFIR) – Support for Foreign Students
Centre for International Relations (CFIR) – Support for Foreign Students
The Centre for International Relations at the University of Kelaniya serves as the primary coordinating body for international students, exchange programs, and academic collaborations. CFIR provides dedicated guidance and administrative assistance to all foreign students.
Website: Centre for International Affairs
Academic Program for Foreign Students - Faculty of Medicine
Academic Program for Foreign Students - Faculty of Medicine
Each year the Faculty offers a small number of places on its MBBS degree programme, for students with foreign qualifications. Such places are on a self-financing basis, and subject to admission criteria and tuition fees stipulated by the University Grants Commission of Sri Lanka.
Website: Academic Courses for Foreign Students - Faculty of Medicine
Academic Program for Foreign Students - Faculty of Humanities
Academic Program for Foreign Students - Faculty of Humanities
The Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies is a pioneering department at the University of Kelaniya, which was known as the ‘Buddhist Faculty’ in the period of the Vidyālankāra University. The main purpose of the Department is to promote vast areas of study and research on Buddhism giving privotal attention to the Pāli Canon while also academically scrutinizing the teachings of the Buddha together with its philosophical and cultural aspects. Indeed, the mission of the Department is to enable the students to handle the expanding field of Buddhist Studies successfully. Consequently, Pāli, Buddhist Philosophy, Buddhist Culture, Buddhist Psychology are the main subjects in the curricula of this Department. It offers Degrees on Buddhist Studies at undergraduate, (both the General and Honours Degrees), and Postgraduate levels (B.A./M.A./M.Phil./Ph.D.).
As a result of the interest in the study of Buddhism, this Department has acquired a remarkable increase in fame among other academic Buddhist institutions not only in Sri Lanka but also overseas. Thus, a remarkable number of foreign students, from various countries such as China, Korea, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar and Bangladesh, are pursuing their academic goals at this Department. Further, countries such as Singapore, Malaysia and China conduct their academic works in their respective Buddhist Studies institutions and conferment of degrees following the subject syllabus and other relevant guidelines at the Department of Pāli and Buddhist Studies in the University of Kelaniya.
Websites: Academic Courses for Foreign Students - Faculty of Humanities
Local Start-Up Assistance and Entrepreneurship Development
Local Start-Up Assistance and Entrepreneurship Development
UOK actively supports local entrepreneurship and small-business creation through a wide range of educational and mentoring initiatives. These efforts aim to empower youth and community members to develop financially and socially sustainable enterprises that strengthen local economies.
Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Entrepreneurship
Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Entrepreneurship
The Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Entrepreneurship degree is one of the highlighting and growing study streams at the Department of Commerce and Financial Management. DCFM initiated the Bachelor of Commerce (Special) Degree in Entrepreneurship in the year 2008 (renamed as Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Entrepreneurship in 2020) with the objective of fostering an Entrepreneurial Culture through promoting new venture creation and rejuvenating existing ventures in Sri Lanka.
The degree of Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Entrepreneurship of the University of Kelaniya aims to provide its students with a learning experience that will produce graduates with an in-depth knowledge of their subject matters, yet knowledge across a wide array/spectrum of disciplines that help them succeed in the face of business challenges. They will have a strong sense of intellectual integrity and personal and professional ethics and be able to be critical and creative thinkers, with an aptitude for continued self-directed learning. They will be leaders in organizations and leading their own organizations in communities, contributing towards national development, while being sensitive global citizens.
Therefore, BCom Honours in Entrepreneurship provides in-depth knowledge in the subject area of entrepreneurship, skills in writing, researching, communicating, and problem-solving, and creates strong personal and professional ethics which are required by both entrepreneurs and corporate entrepreneurs. The Bachelor of Commerce Honours in Entrepreneurship graduate is able to demonstrate knowledge of commerce, business environment, and entrepreneurship while developing to think entrepreneurially, resourceful, and strategically about value-generating opportunities through creation of new ventures or managing existing ventures.
HackX – Inter-University Start-Up Challenge - Organized by the Department of Industrial Management
HackX – Inter-University Start-Up Challenge - Organized by the Department of Industrial Management
The Department of Industrial Management, Faculty of Science, plays a pioneering role in strengthening Sri Lanka’s innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem through industry partnerships, research, and student-led start-up initiatives.
The department regularly organizes HackX – Inter-University Start-Up Challenge, one of the most prominent innovation competitions in the country. This event brings together undergraduate innovators from multiple universities to design and pitch solutions for real-world business and societal challenges. Participants receive expert mentoring from industry professionals, technical training, and opportunities to present their start-up ideas to investors and accelerators. HackX has become a launchpad for many youth-led ventures that focus on sustainable, technology-driven business models.
In addition, the department conducts entrepreneurship and innovation workshops, industry collaboration projects, and student incubator mentoring programmes that connect undergraduates with corporate leaders and local entrepreneurs. By combining academic learning with applied innovation, the Department of Industrial Management helps transform ideas into viable enterprises, contributing to local job creation and sustainable community development.
Website: Department of Industrial Management
Career Guidance Unit (CGU)
Career Guidance Unit (CGU)
The Career Guidance Unit (CGU) regularly conducts entrepreneurship development workshops, leadership programmes, and financial-literacy sessions for students and local youth. These programmes provide guidance on developing viable start-up ideas, managing business operations, and accessing funding opportunities.
Website: Career Guidance Unit
Career Fair - Organized by CGU
Career Fair - Organized by CGU
Uok.Graduate Entrepreneur Exhibition & Sale (GEES) - 2024
Uok.Graduate Entrepreneur Exhibition & Sale (GEES) - 2024
The Graduate Entrepreneur Exhibition & Sale (GEES) 2024, organized for the second time by the Career Guidance Unit (CGU) and the Entrepreneurship Club of the University of Kelaniya was held on the 6th of November 2024, at the CGU premises.
The main aim of GEES 2024 was to provide a dynamic platform for student entrepreneurs and those involved in small businesses, by fostering a culture of entrepreneurship. The event inspired and motivated participants to transform their creative ideas and skills into sustainable businesses. Additionally, it offered emerging entrepreneurs an opportunity to showcase their innovations, connect with potential customers, and gain valuable marketplace exposure. The event featured 42 talented student entrepreneurs who proudly showcased their unique products. More........
Graduate Entrepreneur program - 2023
Graduate Entrepreneur program - 2023
The inauguration session of the Graduate Entrepreneur program - 2023 was held on the 2nd of May at the CGU Auditorium of the University of Kelaniya.
The program was organized by the Career Guidance Unit (CGU) of the University of Kelaniya in collaboration with the National Enterprise Development Authority (NEDA). The program is planned to be held on 2nd, 3rd, 4th of May 2023 at the CGU Auditorium of the University of Kelaniya. More........
Programmes for Access to Basic Services
Programmes for Access to Basic Services
UOK plays a vital role in improving public access to essential services through a series of community-focused initiatives led by its faculties, departments, and support units. These programmes are designed to strengthen access to healthcare, education, counselling, and social support, ensuring that the surrounding communities particularly low-income and underserved groups—benefit from the university’s knowledge and resources.
Expanding Access to Health Services
Expanding Access to Health Services
The University Family Medicine Clinic (UFMC) is operated by the Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine. Located on the ground floor of the E6 building, the clinic provides affordable, high-quality primary care to students, staff, and community residents. Open Monday to Friday (8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.), UFMC offers a wide range of services including:
Family planning and reproductive health procedures
Physiotherapy for musculoskeletal conditions
Psychosocial counselling and mental-health support
Minor surgical procedures and joint injections
Screening for diabetic retinopathy
Community Health Camps and Outreach
Community Health Camps and Outreach
UOK conducts regular Community Health Camps and Outreach Programmes through the Faculty of Medicine and other university divisions to strengthen access to essential health services among economically and socially disadvantaged communities.
Objectives
To provide free or low-cost primary healthcare services to underserved and low-income communities.
To promote preventive healthcare awareness and encourage healthy lifestyles, reducing long-term medical expenses for vulnerable families.
To deliver health education, screenings, and early detection of diseases, helping individuals access treatment before conditions become severe or costly.
To strengthen university–community partnerships, enabling long-term improvements in community well-being.
To provide experiential learning opportunities for medical undergraduates through real-world service delivery.
Main Activities
Organising mobile clinics and health screening programmes offering medical, dental, hearing, and vision checks.
Conducting health education and awareness sessions on nutrition, hygiene, reproductive health, and non-communicable disease prevention.
Providing free medicines, eye-care support, and referrals to tertiary hospitals when necessary.
Engaging medical students and staff volunteers in outreach, promoting empathy and service-learning.
Collaborating with local schools, public health authorities, and community organisations to identify target groups and logistical needs.
Target Groups
Low-income families in rural and semi-urban areas.
Schoolchildren and teachers in under-resourced schools.
Elderly populations and individuals with limited mobility or chronic health conditions.
Women and youth in communities with restricted access to healthcare and health education.
Facebook Page: MedKel Health Camp
Health Camp - 2025
Health Camp - 2025
Health Camp - 2024
Health Camp - 2024
Health Camp - 2023
Health Camp - 2023
A health camp and a medical exhibition, organized by the Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya was held successfully at Mahananneriya Maha Vidyalaya, Galgamuwa, on the 30th of April from 8.00 am onwards. It was held under the theme “suvapat diviyaṭa manusat mehevara”, (the mission of humanity for a healthy life). There, the residents of the Galgamuwa area were given the opportunity to participate in the outpatient department, kidney disease clinic, dermatology clinic, pediatric clinic, dental clinic, and eye disease clinic. All the organization of this health camp and medical exhibition was done by the undergraduates of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya. See more...
The annual health camp and exhibition organized by the students of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya was successfully held at Mahananneriya Maha Vidyalaya, Galgamuwa on 30th of April 2023.
The exhibition stall on speech and hearing sciences and occupational therapy was organized and conducted by the undergraduates of speech and Hearing sciences program Batch 12 and Batch 14, and Batch 1 undergraduates following Occupational Therapy.
The audiology undergraduates also conducted a hearing screening program for both adult and pediatric clients. A total of 27 adults and 10 children were screened. 21 people failed the hearing screening. The clinicians explained the management options for the hearing issues and referred them to relevant clinics. See more...
In a significant effort to bridge the gap between healthcare professionals, experts, and the local community, the Department of Family Medicine at the University of Kelaniya organized the Annual Health Camp 2023 in Vakarai. This insightful initiative took place at Vakarai Maha Vidyalaya in the heart of the Batticaloa District, reaching out to nearly 600 students and 50 staff members in a predominantly Tamil area with a population of around 21,000, largely comprising impoverished fishermen and farmers.
The primary goals of the health camp were to raise awareness about prevalent health issues, educate participants on preventive measures and healthy lifestyle choices, encourage community engagement in addressing health challenges, and promote healthy habits and behaviors through interactive sessions.
The event, held on the 9th of July 2023, at Vakarai Maha Vidyalaya, aimed to engage residents of the local community, regardless of age or background. The organizing committee actively involved local representatives, conducted pre-event surveys to understand community health concerns, and collaborated with local schools, businesses, and organizations to encourage participation. See more....
Blood Donation and Health Support Initiatives
Blood Donation and Health Support Initiatives
UOK actively contributes to strengthening the national healthcare system through voluntary blood donation campaigns and related community health-support initiatives. These programmes ensure that life-saving resources are available to vulnerable patients who depend on public health services.
Lohitha Paramitha 2025: Blood Donation Campaign
Lohitha Paramitha 2025: Blood Donation Campaign
The “Lohitha Paramitha” blood donation program, organized by the Staff and Students’ Association of the Department of Library and Information Science, University of Kelaniya, was successfully held on 29th August 2025 at the university gymnasium.
Policy Engagement and Contributions to Poverty Reduction
Policy Engagement and Contributions to Poverty Reduction
UOK plays a pivotal role in shaping national and global policies aimed at eradicating poverty and reducing health inequities through evidence-based research and leadership. Academic experts and administrators from the university contribute to the development, implementation, and evaluation of social and health-related policies that directly benefit vulnerable and low-income populations.
Global and National Policy Leadership
Senior Professor Nilanthi de Silva, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya, has made outstanding contributions to global and regional policy formulation in health and poverty alleviation. As a member of the World Health Organization (WHO) Strategic and Technical Advisory Group on Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) and a recognized expert under the TDR Global Network (Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases), she provides technical guidance to programmes that aim to eliminate diseases of poverty in developing countries. Her research on parasitic infections and community-based disease control has informed national health policy decisions in Sri Lanka and contributed to WHO’s global strategies on tropical disease prevention and control.
Prof. Nilanthi de Silva – TDR Global Profile
Institutional and Faculty-Level Policy Support
The Faculty of Social Sciences provides ongoing research and consultancy support for poverty alleviation, social inclusion, and equitable development policies at the national level.
The Faculty of Medicine engages in health policy development through research and collaboration with the Ministry of Health, focusing on community health, preventive medicine, and health equity.
The Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies contributes to national discussions on entrepreneurship, labour productivity, and sustainable economic development, promoting inclusive growth.
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