University of Colombo e-Repository

UCER (University of Colombo Electronic Repository) is a collection of scientific research publications by researchers at the University of Colombo, Sri Lanka. This e-Repository serves to manage, preserve and make available the academic works of the faculty, postgraduate students, and research groups. The collection includes faculty publications, master's and doctoral theses abstracts. This repository is updated regularly, and new works are added to collections on a continuous basis

Guidelines

Authors are responsible for obtaining copyright permission from the publisher and submitting the signed declaration to ir@lib.cmb.ac.lk.

Recent Submissions

A Communicological study on the Issues of Education and professions of the journalists in Sri Lanka
(International Journal of Research and Analytical Reviews, 2025) Suraweera, S.A.N.P.
This study explores the complex landscape of education and professional development for journalists in Sri Lanka through a communicological lens. It aims to identify the key challenges faced by aspiring and practicing journalists in terms of educational opportunities, curriculum adequacy, and professional growth. By employing a mixed-methods approach, including surveys, interviews, and content analysis, this research examines the alignment between journalism education programs and the dynamic requirements of the media industry. Findings reveal significant gaps in the existing educational frameworks, highlighting a disconnect between theoretical knowledge imparted in academic institutions and practical skills demanded by employers. Furthermore, the study addresses issues such as limited access to quality training, the impact of digital media evolution, and the socio-political influences on journalistic practices. Recommendations are provided for enhancing journalism education and professional training to better equip journalists with the necessary competencies to thrive in a rapidly changing media environment. This research contributes to the broader discourse on media education reform and professional standards in journalism, offering insights that can inform policy-making and curriculum development in Sri Lanka.
The Impact of Media School Clubs on Students' Media Literacy Skills, specifically for Sri Lanka
(American Journal of Multidisciplinary Research & Development, 2025) Suraweera, S.A.N.P.
Media literacy, defined as the ability to access, analyze, evaluate, create, and participate in media, is a vital skill in today's media-saturated world. With students constantly exposed to media messages, cultivating media literacy has become a key educational goal. This research investigates the role and effectiveness of media school clubs in enhancing media literacy skills among secondary school students in Sri Lanka. Through a combination of surveys, interviews, and content analysis, the study examines how participation in media school clubs influences students to become critical media consumers and content creators. The findings demonstrate that students involved in these clubs develop a higher awareness of media influence, exhibit improved critical thinking, and enhance their communication and production skills. The study offers recommendations and best practices to strengthen media education, providing evidence-based insights for educators, policymakers, and media professionals in Sri Lanka.
Use and challenges of technological convergence in television media content creation, specifically for Sri Lanka
(Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research, 2025) Suraweera, S.A.N.P.
This research examines the use and challenges of technological convergence in television media content creation in Sri Lanka. The central question of this research is: What are the primary challenges and benefits associated with technological convergence in television media content creation in Sri Lanka? The primary objective of this research is to investigate the application of convergence technologies in Sri Lankan television production, particularly in the news and entertainment genres. Utilizing case studies at leading broadcasters, in-depth interviews with producers and technical staff, and self-observation within production environments, the research uncovers both the creative potential and challenges of convergence. Findings reveal the emerging application of multimedia storytelling—utilizing 3D effects, infographics, and live social media feeds, yet constrained. Findings indicate that while convergence technologies have significant creative potential, their implementation often falls short due to infrastructural limitations, a skills gap, and financial constraints. This paper concludes with recommendations for enhancing the convergence ecosystem within Sri Lankan television.
Economic Empowerment via Collective Consciousness: Achieving SDG 8 Through Rural Entrepreneurship in Sri Lanka – A Case Study of the Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement
(International Journal of Recent Development in Engineering and Technology, 2025) Suraweera, S.A.N.P.
This study examines Sarvodaya’s pivotal role in promoting economic empowerment by cultivating a collective consciousness to advance Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8—decent work and economic growth—in rural Sri Lanka. Rooted in Gandhian philosophy, Sarvodaya is a grassroots movement emphasizing social cohesion, participatory development, and community self-reliance. By leveraging shared norms, values, and social bonds, Sarvodaya has historically mobilized rural communities to initiate and sustain small-scale enterprises, thereby enhancing livelihoods and reducing poverty. This research investigates how Sarvodaya’s community-driven approach nurtures the collective consciousness that underpins entrepreneurial motivation and resilience. Employing a mixed-methods case study design, data were collected through interviews, focus groups, and surveys within selected Sarvodaya-led villages across Sri Lanka. The findings reveal that Sarvodaya’s emphasis on spiritual and cultural norms fosters trust, social cohesion, and a sense of shared purpose, which collectively serve as catalysts for entrepreneurial activity. The reinforced social capital enables community members to access resources, collaborate, and innovate, leading to sustainable livelihoods and inclusive economic growth. Moreover, the study emphasizes the significance of community participation and cultural values in shaping entrepreneurial behavior that aligns with SDG 8 targets. The research contributes to understanding how grassroots movements, such as Sarvodaya, can harness collective consciousness as a strategic asset for rural development. It offers a practical framework for policymakers, development practitioners, and community organizations seeking to replicate or adapt Sarvodaya’s community-centric model to promote inclusive economic growth in similar contexts. Ultimately, the study underscores the transformative potential of social cohesion and shared norms in empowering rural entrepreneurs, fostering resilient communities, and achieving sustainable development objectives in Sri Lanka.
Media Education in the Age of Convergence: Navigating Challenges and Harnessing Opportunities in Sri Lanka
(American Research Journal of Humanities & Social Science, 2025) Suraweera, S.A.N.P.
The convergence of media technologies in the digital age has revolutionized the landscape of communication and content consumption. The dawn of the digital age has brought about a profound transformation in the way we interact with information and media. As traditional boundaries between different forms of media blur and technology continue to evolve, the concept of media education has also undergone a significant shift. Media education equips individuals with the critical thinking skills necessary to navigate the complex, fast-paced, and information-rich world of media, allowing them to make informed decisions, engage with diverse perspectives, and become responsible and media-savvy citizens. With a focus on these changing pedagogical approaches, curriculum design, and skills development, this article delves into how educators can equip students with the critical thinking and digital literacy necessary to thrive in a converged media environment. This article explores the implications of media convergence on media education, analyzing the challenges and opportunities it presents, specific to the Sri Lankan education system.