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Books a treasure trove of knowledge- Prof. Ratnapala

by Manjula Fernando

Many university students these days show undying enthusiasm for political campaigns and demonstrations. They even vow to die for any cause other than education. If they have the same enthusiasm for their studies I am sure future prospects would be far more better, eminent Sociologist and Sri Jayawardhanapura University senior professor Nandasena Ratnapala said.

"I have achieved a lot of things in my life.

It was my determination, perseverance, hard work and especially the love for books which brought me to where I am now and it is no hard task for anyone to conquer their dreams given they have the right attitude," he said in advice to the present day generation of undergraduates.

Prof. Ratnapala was speaking after being felicitated by the Sociology and Anthropology Department of the Sri Jayawardhanapura University for his long standing service to the university sector as well as the society through his many research publications which talked about deep sociological aspects of life clearly and explicitly.

He said our younger generation was captivated by television than books, which he considers it as a dangerous trend. Books are a treasure trove of knowledge and we must strive to instil the reading habit in them at a tender age.

Sri Jayawardhanapura University Vice Chancellor Prof. Tissa Kariyawasam who was also a student of Prof.Ratnapala during 1950's said he was a role model of a university lecturer for the 21st century. He was very popular as a lecturer and always taught his students how to be practical.

Prof. Ratnapala was retiring from service after over 40 years of service as a university lecturer. A felicitation song was sung by a group of sociology Department students at the ceremony and three felicitation awards were presented.

Colombo University Vice Chancellor Prof. Tilak Hettiarachchi, Sri Jayawardenapura University Arts Faculty Dean Prof. Chandima Wijebandara, Kelaniya University Professor Chadrasiri Palliyaguru, J'pura Sociology and Anthropology Department Head Dr. Swarnalatha Perera delivered guest speeches. Leader of the Sarvodaya Movement A.T. Ariyaratne and Mrs.N.G.D.S.Ratnapala were also present at the ceremony.

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