Centre for Excellence Alumni Inspiration Series
The Science Section of Trinity College recently welcomed back Old Trinitian Mr Dilshara Herath (batch of 2018) as part of the Centre for Excellence Alumni Inspiration Series. His visit provided students with a valuable opportunity to engage with a young alumnus whose academic and professional journey has taken him from the classrooms of Trinity to admission into the PhD programme at Columbia University, an Ivy League institution and one of the world’s leading centres for research and innovation.
A student of the Physical Science stream who completed his G.C.E. Advanced Level studies at Trinity in 2018, Dilshara went on to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical and Information Engineering at the University of Ruhuna, graduating with First Class Honours. Following his undergraduate studies, he served as a Temporary Instructor at the Faculty of Engineering before joining the Multidisciplinary AI Research Centre (MARC) at the University of Peradeniya as a Research Assistant and Project Coordinator.
During his time at MARC, Dilshara contributed to several research projects in Artificial Intelligence, Signal Processing and Computer Vision. His work explored AI-powered systems for drone motor detection, industrial fault diagnosis and driver drowsiness detection, producing research with applications in national security, industrial safety and transportation. These achievements and contributions ultimately led to his acceptance into the PhD programme at Columbia University, placing him among a growing number of young Sri Lankan scholars gaining entry to leading universities around the world.
Addressing the morning assembly and later interacting with students of the Science Section, Dilshara focused not on grades or university admissions, but on the values that shaped his journey.
Drawing from his experiences as both a student and sportsman, he emphasised the importance of maintaining a balance between academic excellence and co-curricular engagement. Participation in clubs, societies, leadership opportunities and sport, he explained, helps develop qualities such as resilience, teamwork, communication, adaptability and leadership. His own journey demonstrated how experiences gained on the football field and through student activities contributed just as much to his development as those gained in the classroom and laboratory.
Another key theme of his address was kindness and service. Reflecting on his own experiences, he encouraged students to support others whenever possible, noting that meaningful relationships, opportunities and personal growth often emerge from acts of generosity and collaboration.
Dilshara also spoke about gratitude, acknowledging the role played by his parents, teachers, mentors and peers throughout his educational journey. He reminded students that success is rarely achieved alone and that recognising those who contribute to one’s growth is an important aspect of personal and professional development.
Perhaps the most encouraging message for students was his observation that one’s future is not defined by a single examination result or by how others perceive them at a particular moment in time. Progress, he explained, is built through consistency, perseverance and a willingness to embrace opportunities for learning and growth. His own story demonstrated that a student’s future is shaped not by where he begins, but by the decisions he makes, the values he cultivates and the opportunities he chooses to pursue.
A particularly inspiring aspect of the session was his emphasis on the expanding global opportunities available to Sri Lankan students. Sharing examples of Old Trinitians pursuing higher education and careers around the world, he highlighted that pathways to world-renowned universities, including Ivy League institutions, remain accessible to students who are prepared to work diligently and pursue their ambitions with purpose.
At the same time, he encouraged students to remember the importance of giving back. The knowledge, skills and experiences gained abroad, he noted, can play a significant role in contributing to the development of Sri Lanka and creating opportunities for future generations.
Trinity College extends its sincere appreciation to Mr Dilshara Herath for returning to his alma mater to share his experiences and insights with our students. His story serves as a reminder that excellence is shaped by commitment, character and perseverance throughout one’s journey.
As he prepares to commence his doctoral studies at Columbia University, College congratulates him on this achievement. We wish him every success as he embarks on this new chapter and look forward to following his future contributions to research, innovation and society.
