The Faculty of Science Sports Awards Ceremony 2023, held on August 30, 2024, at the New Arts Theatre (NAT), University of Colombo, was a landmark event celebrating the exceptional sporting talents of Faculty of Science undergraduates. Organized in partnership with the National Youth Services Council (NYSC), this ceremony was a tribute to athletes who have excelled in their respective fields, marking the first-ever such recognition in the faculty's history.

The ceremony began with a reception at the Statistics Department building at 3:30 p.m., followed by the formal awards presentation at 4:00 p.m. at the NAT. Although Vice Chancellor Senior Prof. H.D. Karunaratne and Mr. Pasindu Gunarathne, Chairman/Director General of the NYSC, were unable to attend due to prior commitments, the event was honored by the presence of Senior Prof. Upul Sonnadara, Dean of the Faculty of Science, and Prof. Nihal Hennayake, Chairman of the Sports Advisory Board, who officiated the proceedings.

This inaugural awards ceremony recognized student-athletes across several categories, showcasing their dedication and contributions to sports:

1. Faculty of Science Sports Awards – Celebrating the general sporting achievements of undergraduates.
2. Special Awards for University Team Captains and Vice-Captains – Honoring the leadership and contributions of team captains and vice-captains who guided their peers with distinction.
3. Special Awards for SLUSA Colours – Commending students who were awarded Sri Lanka University Sports Association Colours.
4. Special Awards for National/International Representation – Recognizing students who represented Sri Lanka at the national or international level, bringing pride to the university and the nation.
5. Awards for the Sportsman and Sportswoman with the Most Number of Sports Awards – Highlighting athletes who excelled in multiple sports disciplines throughout the year.

In his speech, Senior Prof. Upul Sonnadara emphasized the importance of balancing sports and academics, and how events like this not only celebrate success but also encourage greater participation in sports among undergraduates. He noted the significance of this event in uplifting the culture of sports within the Faculty of Science and expressed his gratitude to everyone who worked hard to bring this ceremony to life.

Senior Prof. Nalin de Silva, Senior Treasurer of the Faculty of Science Sports Association, also shared his insights, reflecting on his own experiences as a student-athlete and emphasizing the lifelong value of sports in shaping individuals. His words served as an inspiration to the students, encouraging them to strive for excellence in both academics and sports.

The event concluded with a musical performance during dinner at the Statistics Department building, where athletes, faculty members, and guests gathered to celebrate the day’s achievements and strengthen the bonds within the sporting community.

The success of the Faculty of Science Sports Awards Ceremony 2023 was a collective effort. Special thanks were extended to Vice Chancellor Senior Prof. H.D. Karunaratne, Chairman/Director General of the NYSC Mr. Pasindu Gunarathne, Dean of the Faculty of Science Senior Prof. Upul Sonnadara, Senior Treasurer of the Faculty of Science Sports Association Senior Prof. Nalin de Silva, Prof. Hasini Perera, Faculty of Science, the Executive Committee and members of the Faculty of Science Sports Association, and all other individuals and organizations who played a role in making this event a reality. Their hard work and dedication were instrumental in ensuring the ceremony's success.

Ultimately, the primary purpose of the event was to inspire and motivate more Faculty of Science undergraduates to actively engage in sports, promoting a holistic university experience that fosters both academic and athletic growth.