About Mr. Kumara Pathiraja

Mr. Kumara Pathiraja is a Lecturer in the Sri Lanka Teacher Educator Service (SLTES) with extensive qualifications, including a Bachelor of Arts (BA), Postgraduate Diplomas (PGDE, PGDEM), Master of Education (MEd), Master of Philosophy (MPhil), and ongoing doctoral research in Educational Human Resource Management at the University of Peradeniya.

Currently serving at the Maharagama National College of Education, Mr. Pathiraja is a committed educator and researcher. His expertise includes academic instruction, student counseling, curriculum development, and integrating educational technology.

Academic and Professional Journey

With a career beginning in 1992, Mr. Pathiraja has held various influential positions, including:

• Lecturer (SLTES): Maharagama National College of Education (2003–Present).
• President (MNCOE): Leading faculty collaboration and curriculum enhancement.
• Teacher Advisor: Under the Zonal Director of Education, Mahiyanganaya.
• Teacher: Principal of D.S. Senanayake National School, Kandaketiya.

Research and Innovations

Mr. Pathiraja’s research focuses on Human Resource Management, Employee Performance Appraisal Systems, and aesthetic education. Some of his notable research publications include:

• Empirical studies on lecturer performance evaluation and its impact on institutional management.
• Explorations into the role of aesthetic education in student development and socialization.
• Development of assessment software for job performance appraisal.

Contributions to Education and the Arts

A National Artist in Dancing and Drama, Mr. Pathiraja is an award-winning performer in Upcountry Traditional Dance and Drumming. His dedication to promoting Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage includes:

• Directing and instructing at the Sri Siddhartha Art Institute.
• Winning multiple national awards for traditional performances and contributions to youth cultural programs.

Skills and Expertise

Mr. Pathiraja is renowned for his ability to integrate education and technology, particularly in the following areas:

• Classroom management and online lecture facilitation.
• Curriculum development and educational software implementation.
• Academic writing in Sinhala and aesthetic education training.

Recognitions and Accomplishments

• Justice of the Peace (for the whole island) since 2017.
• Visiting Lecturer at Rajarata University and Maharagama Teacher’s Centre.
• National Cadet Corps Captain, demonstrating leadership beyond academics.

Publications

Mr. Pathiraja has authored numerous research papers and reports, including studies on educational guidance, counseling, and the significance of aesthetics in education. These contributions underline his passion for nurturing creativity and innovation in teaching methodologies.

Vision and Dedication

Mr. Kumara Pathiraja’s vision is to empower future educators and foster success in teacher training, research, and cultural preservation. His tireless efforts in developing human resource management systems and his passion for lifelong learning set him apart as a transformative figure in Sri Lanka’s education landscape.