The inauguration ceremony of the Diploma in People Skills (DPS) Program was held on October 25, 2024, at the Auditorium, Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, University of Kelaniya. This significant event marked the beginning of an enriching academic journey for the incoming students, aimed at bridging the gap between academic learning and essential professional competencies.The ceremony was graced by Chief Guest Prof. W.M.C.B. Wanninayake, Dean of the Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies.The keynote address was delivered by Mr. Milinda Weerasinghe, Group Head of Marketing at Maliban Group Sri Lanka.Additionally, Dr. Sugeeth Patabendige, Head of the Department of Marketing Management, addressed the gathering, highlighting the department's support and vision for the DPS Program.

The event also celebrated the involvement of esteemed industry partners, both long-standing and new, who are dedicated to supporting the DPS Programme in its goal to enhance students' practical skills and industry knowledge.

Nestlé Sri Lanka, a valued strategic partner with whom we have built a long-standing relationship. Representing Nestlé Sri Lanka were:

• Mr. Nuwan Rathnayake – Category Marketing Head for Nestomalt
• Ms. Rovina Vandersay – Senior Manager for Talent Acquisition & Development
• Ms. Taniya Linton – Employer Branding Specialist and DEI Lead
• Ms. Manishka Dayaratne – Senior Executive in Human Resources

Unilever, another longstanding strategic partner who joined the programme last year, also returned to support the programme. Representing Unilever were:

• Ms. Sammani Perera – Assistant Manager for Digital Marketing & Innovation, and Omnichannel

This year, we welcomed several new strategic partners who brought fresh insights to the DPS Programme:

• Ogilvy Digital Sri Lanka, represented by Mr. Lalith Sumanasiri, Managing Director
• Dialog Axiata PLC, represented by Ms. Shehani Pathiranage, Manager of Talent Acquisition, and Ms. Nimodi Maddumarachchi, HR Business Partner
• Hutch Sri Lanka, represented by Mr. Hamdhy Hassen, Chief Marketing Office
• Maliban Group , represented by Mr. Milinda Weerasinghe, Group Head of Marketing at Maliban Group.

The Vote of Thanks was delivered by Ms. Nilakshika Subasinghe, Coordinator of the Diploma in People Skills Program, who expressed her heartfelt gratitude to all attendees. The event was further enriched by the presence of faculty members from the Department of Marketing Management, whose support and participation added great value to the occasion.