At the Northern Investment Summit ’26 held at the Thiruvalluvar Cultural Centre in Jaffna recently, the Rukmini Tissanayagam Trust announced the awarding of two Annual Gold Medals to recognize the Best Commercialisable Research Projects: one to the University of Jaffna and another to the University of Vavuniya. This initiative is designed to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and stronger university– industry collaboration among Sri Lankan undergraduates and postgraduates.
Mr. Mohan Tissanayagam, Settlor of the Trust, expressed his pleasure in supporting young entrepreneurial students:
“These awards are intended to encourage students to go beyond academic achievement and actively engage in innovation, enterprise creation, and responsible nation-building. Supporting young researchers who transform ideas into viable ventures is one of the most meaningful investments we can make for the future of Sri Lanka.”
The Trust, established in memory of Mrs. Rukmini Tissanayagam, continues her legacy of supporting education, culture, and innovation. Descended from both Sir Ponnambalam Arunachalam and Sir Ponnambalam Ramanathan, two of Sri Lanka’s most eminent patriots, Mrs. Tissanayagam is remembered for her quiet generosity and lifelong commitment to philanthropy.
The Gold Medals will honor research projects that have led to licensing agreements with industry partners or the creation of university spin-off ventures across all academic disciplines. By strengthening knowledge transfer and promoting entrepreneurial thinking, the initiative seeks to enhance the contribution of university research to Sri Lanka’s long-term economic and social development.
Formal proposals were submitted on January 20, 2026, to Professor S. Srisatkunarajah, Vice Chancellor of the University of Jaffna, and Professor A. Atputharajah, Vice Chancellor of the University of Vavuniya. The Trust has expressed readiness to work with both institutions to finalize implementation arrangements, including the selection process, award structure, and timeline for the inaugural medals.
