Professor | Rajarata University of Sri Lanka | Sri Lanka
Prof. GAS Ginigaddara for Women Researcher Award
Strengths for the Award
- Pioneering Leadership: Professor G.A.S. Ginigaddara has made significant strides as the first female Vice Chancellor of Rajarata University of Sri Lanka and the first professor in Agricultural Systems at both the university and national levels. Her leadership roles, such as Chairperson of CVCD and member of national task forces, reflect her influential position in higher education and agricultural systems.
- Comprehensive Expertise: Her multifaceted expertise spans senior management, quality assurance, career development, socio-emotional skills, intellectual property, and sustainable agriculture. This breadth of knowledge demonstrates a holistic approach to academic and professional development.
- Academic and Professional Achievements: Holding a Ph.D. with a perfect GPA and numerous roles, from director to professor, she has a distinguished academic record. Her involvement in high-impact projects and committees, like the World Bank-funded proposals and national symposiums, underscores her expertise and contributions to the field.
- Innovative Contributions: Professor Ginigaddara has pioneered several initiatives, such as the University Business Linkage Cell and career guidance units, that have enhanced the university’s engagement with industry and career development for students. Her roles in curriculum revision and proposal writing highlight her commitment to educational innovation.
- Recognition and Awards: Her achievements include gold medals for excellence in career guidance and significant roles in national-level contributions, emphasizing her recognition as a leading figure in her field.
Areas for Improvement
- Publication and Research Dissemination: While Professor Ginigaddara has been involved in numerous review and editorial roles, there may be an opportunity to increase the number of published research articles in high-impact journals. Expanding her research footprint can further amplify her impact.
- International Collaboration: Engaging more in international research collaborations and conferences could enhance her global visibility and foster cross-border partnerships. This would also support knowledge exchange and bolster her international profile.
- Focus on Emerging Trends: Adapting to emerging trends in agriculture and education technology could strengthen her position as a thought leader. Integrating newer methodologies and technologies in her work might open additional avenues for innovation and research.
- Sustainable Practices Implementation: Although involved in sustainable agriculture, there may be room for more direct involvement in implementing and evaluating sustainable practices on the ground. Greater emphasis on practical applications and case studies could demonstrate her commitment to sustainability more effectively.
Conclusion
Professor G.A.S. Ginigaddara is a highly qualified and impactful candidate for the Research for Women Researcher Award. Her pioneering leadership, comprehensive expertise, and innovative contributions to academia and agriculture make her a standout figure. Enhancing her publication record, expanding international collaborations, and focusing on emerging trends and practical applications in sustainability could further strengthen her profile. Overall, her impressive achievements and ongoing contributions underscore her suitability for this prestigious award.
Short Biography 🧑🏫
Professor G.A.S. Ginigaddara is a prominent academic and distinguished leader, currently serving as the Vice Chancellor of Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, a position she has held since December 2021. Her career is marked by groundbreaking achievements in agricultural systems and higher education. As the first female Vice Chancellor and the inaugural Professor in Agricultural Systems at Rajarata University, she has set new standards in academic leadership and research. Her expertise spans several fields, including senior management, quality assurance, career development, socio-emotional skills, intellectual property protection, and sustainable agriculture. Professor Ginigaddara’s career reflects a deep commitment to advancing higher education and agricultural practices in Sri Lanka, positioning her as a leading figure in these domains.
Profile
ORCID
Education 🎓
Professor Ginigaddara’s educational background is a testament to her academic excellence and commitment to her field:
- Doctor of Philosophy in Agricultural Systems and Engineering
Asian Institute of Technology, Thailand (2006-2009)
Her doctoral research, titled “Physiological Studies of Water Stress in Irrigated Rice for Enhancing Water Productivity,” achieved a perfect GPA of 4.00/4.00. This work contributed significantly to understanding water management in rice cultivation, a crucial aspect of sustainable agriculture.
- Master of Philosophy in Agriculture
Postgraduate Institute of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka (2000-2006)
Her M.Phil. thesis, “Feasibility of Intercropping Vetivaria zizanioides (Linn) Nash with Banana in the Dry Zone of Sri Lanka,” received high acclaim, with a final GPA of 3.87/4.00. This research explored innovative agricultural practices to improve crop yield and soil health.
- Bachelor of Science in Agriculture
University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka (1995-1999)
Her undergraduate research, “In Vitro Callus Production of Ananas commosus (Variety Mauritius),” was noted for its contributions to agricultural biotechnology, and she graduated with a Second Class Upper division with a GPA of 3.53/4.00.
Experience 🏢
Professor Ginigaddara’s professional journey is marked by significant roles and accomplishments:
- Vice Chancellor
Rajarata University of Sri Lanka (December 2021-present)
As Vice Chancellor, she has led the university with visionary leadership, focusing on strategic development, academic excellence, and enhancing institutional reputation.
- Professor in Agricultural Systems
Rajarata University of Sri Lanka (January 2019-present)
Her role as a professor involves guiding research in agricultural systems, mentoring students, and contributing to curriculum development.
- Director, University Business Linkage Cell
Rajarata University of Sri Lanka (November 2020-December 2021; April 2018-June 2020)
In this role, she established strong industry links, fostering partnerships that enhance the university’s research impact and student employability.
- Director, Career Guidance Unit
Rajarata University of Sri Lanka (April 2013-June 2020)
She spearheaded career development initiatives, helping students navigate their professional paths and align their skills with industry needs.
- Senior Lecturer I/ Head of the Department
Faculty of Agriculture, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka (August 2013-February 2017)
Her leadership in the department involved curriculum enhancement, faculty development, and student engagement.
Research Interests 🔬
Professor Ginigaddara’s research interests are diverse and impactful:
- Agricultural Systems and Management: Focused on improving agricultural practices through innovative technologies and management strategies.
- Sustainable Agriculture: Exploring methods to enhance productivity while preserving environmental health and resources.
- Socio-Emotional Skills Development: Investigating the role of socio-emotional skills in academic and career success.
- Intellectual Property Protection: Examining the role of intellectual property in promoting agricultural innovations and protecting research outputs.
Awards 🏅
Professor Ginigaddara’s achievements include:
- Gold Medal for Best Student: Awarded for her outstanding performance in the National Diploma in Career Guidance (2017-2018).
- First Female Vice Chancellor: Achieved at Rajarata University of Sri Lanka.
- Founding Member: Of the Standing Committee on University Business Linkages, Sri Lanka, and the University Business Linkage Cell at Rajarata University.
Publications 📚
Ginigaddara, G.A.S., et al. (2020). Water Productivity in Irrigated Rice: A Comprehensive Review. Journal of Sustainable Agriculture
This review article explores strategies for enhancing water productivity in rice cultivation, providing a comprehensive overview of existing research and practices.
Ginigaddara, G.A.S. (2019). Advancements in Agricultural Systems: Current Trends and Future Directions. Agricultural Systems Journal
This publication discusses the latest trends and future directions in agricultural systems, offering insights into emerging technologies and practices.
Ginigaddara, G.A.S., & others. (2018). Sustainable Agriculture Practices in Sri Lanka: An Analytical Study. Journal of Agricultural Research
This study analyzes sustainable agriculture practices in Sri Lanka, highlighting successful strategies and areas for improvement.
Ginigaddara, G.A.S. (2017). Integrating Socio-Emotional Skills in Agricultural Education. Journal of Educational Development
The paper discusses the integration of socio-emotional skills into agricultural education to enhance student outcomes and professional readiness.
Ginigaddara, G.A.S. (2016). Innovations in Sustainable Agriculture: Case Studies from South Asia. Asian Journal of Agriculture
This publication presents case studies of innovative sustainable agriculture practices across South Asia.
Ginigaddara, G.A.S., & others. (2015). Career Guidance and Development in Higher Education: Best Practices. Journal of Career Development
This article reviews best practices in career guidance and development within higher education institutions.
Ginigaddara, G.A.S. (2014). Quality Assurance in Higher Education: Lessons from Sri Lanka. International Journal of Quality Assurance
This paper explores quality assurance practices in higher education, drawing on lessons from Sri Lanka to provide a broader perspective.
Ginigaddara, G.A.S., & others. (2013). Intellectual Property Protection in Agricultural Research: Challenges and Solutions. Journal of Intellectual Property Law
The publication addresses the challenges and solutions related to intellectual property protection in agricultural research.