The English Students’ Association, in collaboration with the Gender Equity and Equality Club, Centre for Gender Studies, University of Kelaniya, proudly hosted an Awareness Programme on Breast Cancer Prevention, bringing together leading experts in the field to promote awareness and prevention strategies.

This impactful event took place on the 22nd of January 2025 at the K14 Humanities Faculty Boardroom, commencing at 10:00 am onwards.

The event began with a warm welcome and a keynote address by Professor Maithree Wickramasinghe, Chair and Senior Professor of the Department of English and Founding Director of the Centre for Gender Studies. Professor Wickramasinghe highlighted the critical importance of breast cancer awareness and prevention in reducing the global burden of this disease.

The programme featured an engaging panel discussion, chaired by Dr. Shashikala Asella, Senior Lecturer in the Department of English. The esteemed panellists included Dr. Lanka Jayasuriya Dissanayake, Chairperson of the Indira Cancer Trust; Dr. Kanchana Wijesinghe, Consultant Breast Surgeon, Colombo South Teaching Hospital; and Dr. Hasareli Fernando, Consultant Community Physician from the National Cancer Control Programme, Ministry of Health.

Each panellist brought invaluable insights into breast cancer prevention, early detection, and support systems for patients and their families. The session concluded with a Q&A segment and a thought-provoking general discussion, fostering an interactive and enlightening exchange of ideas.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the dedication and efforts of all speakers, organisers, and attendees in making the event a resounding success.

The event was graced by the presence of Senior Professor Dilkushi Wettewe, Director of the Career Guidance Unit; Dr. H. R. Sanika Sulochani, Deputy Director of the Centre for Gender Studies; Dr. E. A. D. Anusha Edirisinghe, Chair of the Advisory Committee, Centre for Gender Studies; and Senior Lecturer Dinali Fernando, Head of the Department of English.