Break Through Barriers: KDU’s 18th IRC Drives United Ideas for Lasting Progress

Breaking through barriers: KDU’s 18th IRC drives united ideas for lasting progress.

The General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) started its 18th International Research Conference (IRC) on 30 September. Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) was the chief guest at the event. This year’s theme, “Bridging Frontiers: Interdisciplinary Research for Sustainable Progress”, highlighted the urgent need for cooperation across disciplines to tackle today’s global challenges.

In his address, the Defence Secretary described the KDU as both a national think tank and a centre of learning. He said that defense, security, technology, the environment, health, and social equity are no longer separate issues. They are part of one shared conversation. He praised the university for its tradition of combining military training with academic research. This has produced leaders for the military and important research in medicine, engineering, law, and governance.

The conference brought together diplomats, top officials, experts, and people from other countries. This made it possible to talk about new things and try new things. Professor Bahadur Singh gave the main speech. Chancellor General Shantha Kottegoda (Retd), Secretary to the Ministry of Fisheries Dr Kolitha Jinadasa, Vice Chancellor Rear Admiral Dhammika Kumara, members of the Board of Management, former Chancellors and Vice Chancellors, and foreign dignitaries were also there.

The meeting reminded KDU of its long-standing commitment to excellence in education, service to the nation, and responsibility to the world. It also continued General Sir John Kotelawala’s vision of combining knowledge with leadership for the better.