The Faculty of Engineering Library of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura officially launched
its English Learning Zone (ELZ) and Language Centre (LC) on 9 November 2026, marking a
significant step towards strengthening English language proficiency and promoting self-directed
learning among students.

The facilities were officially launched by Senior Professor Upul Subasinghe, Vice-Chancellor of
the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, accompanied by Dr. Nishan Dharmaweera, Dean of the
Faculty of Engineering, whose leadership and commitment were instrumental in bringing these
initiatives to fruition.

Established within the Faculty of Engineering Library, the English Learning Zone provides an
attractive and informal learning environment with a collection of simple English reading materials,
classic novels, and language-learning books. It is particularly designed to support students seeking
to improve their English proficiency through independent reading, helping them develop their
vocabulary, reading comprehension, and confidence in using the language.

Complementing the ELZ, the Language Centre is intended to provide audiovisual resources and
technology-assisted facilities for independent language learning. The Centre is also expected to
facilitate structured language-learning sessions conducted by resource persons for both internal
and external students.

Another key initiative planned under the ELZ is “Basha Buddy”, a peer-assisted English language
learning programme in which senior students with strong English communication skills will
facilitate informal conversations, discussions, and interactive activities. A timetable will be
displayed at the ELZ to encourage interested students to participate in these sessions.

Together, these initiatives aim to create an inclusive and supportive environment for improving
communication skills beyond formal classroom teaching, while encouraging peer interaction and
lifelong learning.