Dr. Janaki Jayawardana: A Tribute to a Respected Academic

Sri Lanka mourns the tragic loss of Dr. Janaki Jayawardana, a highly respected academic, who passed away on March 7, 2024, following an unfortunate accident at her residence on Sumanarama Road, Kohuwala. She was 59 years old.

A Tragic Accident

According to police reports, the accident occurred when Dr. Jayawardana and her daughter-in-law attempted to remove a stone placed in front of a car belonging to her son. The vehicle, which was parked on a slope, suddenly moved forward, trapping Dr. Jayawardana underneath. Despite immediate medical attention at Kalubowila Hospital, she succumbed to her injuries.

Her son, who was present at the scene, has been taken into police custody as part of the ongoing investigation into the incident.

A Life Dedicated to Scholarship and Advocacy

Dr. Jayawardana was a distinguished scholar and Senior Lecturer in the Department of History at the University of Colombo. She specialized in gender studies and social history, making significant contributions to the academic field. She earned her PhD from the University of York in the United Kingdom and went on to shape the study of history and gender discourse in Sri Lanka.

She served as the Head of the Department of History at the University of Colombo and played a pivotal role in academia as the Secretary of the Academic Association. Her research on gender roles and societal structures in Sri Lanka remains highly regarded, influencing both policy and public discourse.

A Legacy Remembered

Social media has been flooded with condolence messages, reflecting the deep respect and admiration many had for Dr. Jayawardana. Colleagues, students, and well-wishers remember her as an outspoken advocate for justice and gender equality, as well as a mentor to countless aspiring historians.

The University of Colombo’s Department of History has expressed profound sorrow over her passing, emphasizing the invaluable contributions she made to the field and the lasting impact of her work.

Her untimely death is a great loss to the academic community and the nation. As investigations continue, Sri Lanka remembers Dr. Janaki Jayawardana not only for her scholarly excellence but also for her unwavering dedication to social justice and education