In a landmark moment for the academic and library science community in Sri Lanka, Dr. C.C. Jayasundara, the renowned University Librarian of the University of Kelaniya, has been honoured with the prestigious Committee of Vice-Chancellors and Directors (CVCD) Excellence Award for 2024.
This achievement marks the first time a librarian has received this distinguished national award, underscoring a historic recognition of the field.
Dr. Jayasundara was presented with this Lifetime Award for the Most Outstanding Senior Researcher in Social Sciences and Legal Studies. This highly competitive category acknowledges scholars whose work spans a broad and impactful spectrum, including disciplines such as Archaeology, Economics, Education, Geography, Library Science, Law and other related disciplines.
The award was bestowed in honour of Dr. Jayasundara’s “exceptional contributions to research, leadership and service.” Throughout his distinguished and trailblazing career, he has stood as a transformative force in the realms of scholarly research and academic librarianship. He has not only redefined library services with visionary leadership but has also nurtured and inspired a new generation of information professionals, instilling in them a commitment to excellence and innovation. Under his stewardship, the University of Kelaniya library has ascended to unprecedented heights, setting benchmarks of quality and service, while his profound influence has resonated far beyond the university, leaving an indelible mark on the national and global landscapes of academic librarianship. This historic accolade is not only a testament to Dr. Jayasundara's personal dedication and intellectual prowess but also a powerful affirmation of the vital role that library and information science plays in the country's research and education ecosystem. His achievement is a source of immense pride for our university and an inspiration to the entire academic community.