The STEMUP Educational Foundation successfully hosted the Volunteer Summit & Awards 2025 at the National Library Auditorium, Colombo 07, bringing together passionate volunteers, industry leaders, and educators to celebrate and recognize the extraordinary contributions of individuals dedicated to advancing STEM education in Sri Lanka.
This annual event serves as a platform to highlight the transformative impact of volunteerism in promoting Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education across the country. It also provides an opportunity for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and inspiration, encouraging more individuals to take an active role in shaping the future of STEM education.
A key highlight of the event was the presentation of three prestigious awards, recognizing volunteers who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and impact in their efforts to inspire and educate the next generation.
The Most Valuable Volunteer (MVV) Award, the highest recognition for volunteers who have dedicated years of service to STEMUP’s mission, was presented to Kasun Herath, Sachinthana Ruchiranga, Isuru Ariyarathna, Supul Edirisinghe, and Thimira Niromin. Their lifelong contributions have significantly advanced STEM education and youth empowerment.
The STEMUP Impact Award honored Nimeshika Mandakini, Buddhima Zoysa, Sachira Karunarathna, Amandi Tharuka, Thipuni Wijesinghe, Akshitha Sriyanjith, Sumedha Wickramanayake, Adeepa Gunathilaka, Tharushi Wijethunga, Damithra Fernando, Kalpani Ariyawansha, Umair Ahmadh, Santhusha Jayathilaka, Chathura Ekanayake, Kaushalya Neelawathura, Mihira Aravinda, and Pubudu Wanigasekara. These individuals were recognized for their outstanding commitment and for consistently driving impactful STEM initiatives that have significantly shaped learning opportunities for students across Sri Lanka.
The STEMUP Rising Star Award was presented to Lihini Thennakoon, Ishara Wijesundara, Arunodaya Wickramasinghe, Tharindu Kasthurisinghe, Vimansha Jayarathna, Yasela Dissanayake, Tharindu Edirisinghe, Mohamed Arsath Maisoor, Sanura Sandaruwan, Kavindu Ranasinghe, Zulfa Zulfikar, Thishmi Amaya, Dulmin Wickramage, and Maheshi Anuradha. These volunteers were recognized for their emerging leadership, passion, and commitment to STEMUP’s mission, making a significant impact in a short period.
The summit also featured thought-provoking discussions and keynote addresses from industry experts and STEMUP leaders. Pradeep Kavinda Kotuwegedara delivered an inspiring speech on the value of volunteering in STEM education, emphasizing the crucial role that dedicated volunteers play in preparing students for the future workforce. Prabhath Mannapperuma expressed appreciation for all the volunteers who dedicate their time and effort to making a difference, stating, “Our volunteers are the backbone of STEMUP’s mission. Their dedication has not only transformed individual lives but has also contributed to strengthening Sri Lanka’s STEM ecosystem. Today, we celebrate their hard work and inspire more individuals to join us in this mission.”
The STEMUP Volunteer Summit & Awards 2025 reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to fostering STEM education in Sri Lanka through the power of volunteering. The event concluded with a renewed call to action, encouraging more professionals, educators, and students to engage in volunteer-driven initiatives and help create a future where every child has access to quality STEM education.
For more information on the STEMUP Educational Foundation and how to get involved, visit www.stemup.lk
