The Department of Legal Studies and the Law Society of NSBM Green University successfully hosted the Grand Finale of Kathika ’26, the annual inter-faculty debating competition, on 8 September 2026 at the Green Board Room, NSBM Green University. This year’s competition was held under the thought-provoking theme, “The Future of Justice – Law in an Era of Emerging Technologies.”

Kathika ’26 brought together passionate young debaters from across all Faculties of NSBM, with the Grand Finale featuring talented finalists who had emerged from both the English and Sinhala categories. The competition provided a vibrant platform for students to engage with contemporary and challenging issues while developing their skills in advocacy, critical thinking, logical reasoning, research and persuasive communication.

The Department of Legal Studies was deeply honoured by the presence of Mr. Rajeev Amarasuriya, President of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL), as the Chief Guest. A highly respected member of Sri Lanka’s legal profession, Mr. Amarasuriya has made a significant contribution to the advancement of the legal profession and to matters concerning the rule of law and the administration of justice. His presence added considerable distinction and professional significance to the occasion.

Addressing the young debaters and the audience, Mr. Amarasuriya delivered an inspiring and thought-provoking speech, highlighting the importance of effective communication, sound reasoning and ethical advocacy in the legal profession. His insights were particularly relevant to the theme of Kathika ’26, emphasising the evolving relationship between law, justice and emerging technologies and the need for future legal professionals to remain adaptable, responsible and critically engaged with technological developments. His words provided valuable encouragement to students aspiring to enter the legal profession and reminded them of the responsibility that accompanies the privilege of advocacy.

The Grand Finale was further enriched by the presence of an accomplished panel of judges comprising Mr. Gimhan Sooriyabandara, Attorney-at-Law; Mr. Namal Kalansuriya; and Ms. Thilini Perera, Attorney-at-Law. Their insightful comments, constructive feedback and valuable observations added immense value to the competition and provided participants with an opportunity to learn, reflect and further strengthen their debating and advocacy skills.

The event was further graced by Prof. Thilini de Silva, Deputy Vice Chancellor – Academic; Ms. Anne Pathiranage, Dean of the Faculty of Business; Prof. Shanthi Segarajasingham, Head of the Department of Legal Studies; Ms. Samithri Wanniachy, Lecturer-in-Charge of the Law Society; and lecturers attached to the Department of Legal Studies.

Kathika ’26 reaffirmed the commitment of the Law Society and the Department of Legal Studies to nurturing articulate, analytical and socially responsible future legal professionals, while providing students with opportunities to connect legal education with the rapidly changing realities of society and technology.