The 16th Annual Research Symposium of the Faculty of Agriculture (FoA), Rajarata University of Sri Lanka (RUSL), was held on 20th November 2024 at Puliyankulama, Anuradhapura, under the theme ‘Innovation and Sustainability in Modern Agriculture.’ This esteemed event highlights the research achievements of students, reflecting the faculty’s dedication to advancing agricultural science and practice.

The inaugural session was honoured by the presence of Prof. GVTV. Weerasooriya, Acting Vice Chancellor and Dean of FoA, RUSL; deans of other faculties of RUSL; Dr. UGAI. Sirisena, Symposium Coordinator; and Prof. Paul Kenyon, Head of School, School of Agriculture & Environment, Massey University, who delivered the keynote address. The event also welcomed academics, professionals from research institutes, academic-supportive and non- academic staff, as well as undergraduate and postgraduate students. Following the inaugural session, technical sessions commenced with 145 undergraduate students presenting their research across diverse agricultural fields. The symposium also included a postgraduate session, where 13 students from the faculty’s postgraduate program shared their research findings, contributing to the event comprehensive exploration of modern agricultural innovations. Recognizing excellence, awards were presented to the best presenters from each majoring module and postgraduate session, and the winners of the 3MT competition.