25-Oct-2026

A Legacy Beyond the Lecture Hall: Honouring Senior Professor Sarath Kodithuwakku

Some legacies are written in research papers, some are reflected in the generations of students shaped by a teacher, and others live on in the opportunities created for people long after an initiative begins. The Kiosk stands as a remarkable example of a legacy that extends beyond the lecture hall. 

On 9 January 2023, The Kiosk opened its doors at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya, as Sri Lanka's first student-managed restaurant of its kind. More than a cafeteria, it was a vision to transform student life by bringing together practical business education, entrepreneurial development and financial empowerment. 

An important part of making this collective vision a reality was the leadership and support of Professor Sarath S. Kodithuwakku, a Senior Professor who was serving as the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture

when the initiative was established during the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of the Faculty's contribution to higher education in agriculture. His commitment and facilitation helped create the environment necessary to turn an ambitious idea from the Ag 92/93 batch into a meaningful and lasting opportunity for students. 

The philosophy behind The Kiosk was simple yet powerful: students should have the opportunity not only to learn about business in the classroom, but also to experience what it means to run one, with the support of alumni of the Ag 92/93 batch and the Alumni Association of the Faculty of Agriculture.

Today, that vision continues to unfold every day. Through their involvement in operations, finance, marketing, human resource management, procurement, customer service and teamwork, students gain hands-on experience in managing a real business while pursuing their academic studies. These experiences help them develop practical competencies, professional confidence, leadership and problem-solving skills that will serve them well as they enter the world of work. For students facing financial difficulties, The Kiosk also provides valuable part-time employment and an opportunity to support their education through their own efforts. 

The Kiosk is therefore more than a place where food is prepared and served. It is a living learning environment, where theory meets practice, responsibility builds confidence, and students discover their potential through experience. Its continued success is made possible by the collective efforts of the Faculty, alumni, academic staff who supervise and support its operations, and the generations of students who have contributed to its journey.

As Professor Kodithuwakku reaches his final day in office at the Faculty, the Kiosk Management Committee came together recently in a heartfelt gathering of appreciation and gratitude. Academic staff who continue to guide the initiative, stud