The 8th Joint Conference 2012 of the Staff Development Centre (SDC), University of Colombo and SLAIHEE was held at the Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Colombo on Friday 25th May 2012, 9 am to 3.30 pm. The theme of the conference was “Fostering positive attitudes to meet challenges in Higher Education”.
The conference was inaugurated by Ms. Shrinika Weerakoon, President of SLAIHEE who welcomed all the participants, and she wished them a very productive time at the conference. The occasion was graced by Prof. A.K.W. Jayawardana, Vice Chancellor, University of Moratuwa, and H.D. Karunaratne, Dean Faculty of Management and Finance. Prof. Jayawardana addressed the conference attendees and emphasised the importance of outcome based teaching and learning and graduate attributes. Prof. Karunaratne highlighted the importance of enhancing learning and teaching in the university. They congratulated SLAIHEE for its accomplishments.
The Chief Guest was Dr. Suki Ekaratne, who was the founding Director of SDC and founder of SLAIHEE. Dr. Ekaratne delivered the keynote address on “Fostering positive attitudes to meet challenges in Higher Education “.
The inauguration was concluded by the Acting Director, SDC, University of Colombo who thanked everyone for their total commitment in organizing this conference.
A total of 18 scientific papers were presented by several university academics. Two parallel sessions were held. The abstracts were peer-reviewed, and were in line with the conference theme based on experiences supported with evidence. The presenters are congratulated for believing that they are committed to evidence based improvement of higher education in Sri Lanka.
The Annual General Meeting of SLAIHEE followed the presentations and it was open for registered members only. Four new members were appointed to the executive committee; to the posts of Secretary, Treasurer and two committee members. Abstracts of previous conferences and the 2011 conference could be viewed on News letters.
2012 Keynote address by the Chief Guest.