Hospitality Hub of the Tousrim Club Demonstrates Professional Excellence at the IRCPM 2026

The International Research Conference on Palm Leaf Manuscripts (IRCPM) 2026, organised by the Palm Leaf Manuscript Research Library of the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Kelaniya, was successfully held on 6 July 2026 at the Faculty of Social Sciences Auditorium, University of Kelaniya. The conference brought together professors, researchers, academics, and distinguished guests to share and discuss research relating to palm leaf manuscripts and their scholarly significance.

The Hospitality Hub of the Tourism Club, Department of Archaeology, University of Kelaniya, played an important role in supporting the successful organisation of the conference by professionally managing hospitality and guest-service arrangements. The Hospitality Hub is a student-led initiative that provides students with valuable opportunities to gain practical experience in hospitality and event management while supporting university functions.

For IRCPM 2026, three community members and ten Hospitality Hub members were involved in meal services and guest support. While the meals were prepared by external caterers, the Hospitality Hub members were responsible for serving meals, coordinating the dining arrangements, and ensuring a pleasant and organised dining experience for conference participants and guests. Breakfast was provided as a packed meal consisting of sandwiches and rolls, accompanied by tea or plain tea. A separate buffet arrangement with the same menu was provided for VIP guests.

Particular attention was given to creating an organised and welcoming dining environment. Two separate dining areas were arranged: one for VIP guests and another for invited participants and students. The VIP dining area was arranged in accordance with professional hospitality standards, while the participant and student dining area was also carefully organised to provide a comfortable and welcoming environment. Hospitality Hub members wore their official uniforms and aprons throughout the event, reflecting professionalism, discipline, teamwork, and a strong commitment to service.

Lunch for both VIP guests and conference participants was provided by Don’s Bakers and served on time in the designated dining areas. Throughout the event, Hospitality Hub members demonstrated effective teamwork, communication, coordination, and guest-service skills. Their contribution helped ensure the smooth delivery of hospitality services during the conference.

The involvement of the Hospitality Hub also attracted positive recognition within the University. The Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences expressed interest in the initiative, while lecturers from the Department of Mass Communication engaged with the team to learn more about its objectives and activities. This recognition enhanced the visibility of the Hospitality Hub among academic staff and highlighted its potential to contribute to future university events while creating meaningful opportunities for industry-oriented learning.

The event provided Hospitality Hub members with an important opportunity to apply knowledge gained through their Hotel Management-related coursework in a real event setting. Through their participation, students developed practical skills in hospitality operations, food and beverage service, guest relations, communication, teamwork, and event coordination. The experience also contributed to building their confidence and professional readiness for future careers in the hospitality and tourism industries.

The Tourism Club expresses its sincere appreciation to Professor Chandima Bogahawatta, Head of the Department of Archaeology, for his encouragement and continued support for the initiative. Special appreciation is also extended to Mr. Nivean Wickramarathne, Assistant Lecturer, for supervising the food and beverage operations and providing guidance to the Hospitality Hub team. The Tourism Club also extends its gratitude to all those who contributed to the successful organisation of IRCPM 2026.

The contribution of the Hospitality Hub to IRCPM 2026 marks another significant step in its continuing journey to develop professional hospitality competencies among students. Through practical engagement, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence, the Hospitality Hub continues to create valuable learning opportunities for students while contributing to the quality and professionalism of university events.