- Prof. Janitha A. Liyanage elected as South and West Asia Representative to the Executive Committee of the Federation of Asian Chemical Societies (FACS).
- A distinguished chemist and academic leader, she brings extensive experience from roles in academia, diplomacy, and scientific advancement, including as President of Institute of Chemistry Ceylon.
- In her new role, she aims to strengthen regional research ties, support young scientists, and align South and West Asia’s chemistry efforts with global sustainability goals.
Prof. Janitha A. Liyanage, a renowned chemist and academician, has been elected as the South and West Asia Representative to the Executive Committee (EXCO) of the Federation of Asian Chemical Societies (FACS). The election was done by a ballot of delegates at the General Assembly of FACS.
President of the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon 2024/2025 Prof. Liyanage has had a very distinguished and influential career in education and science. A Senior Professor of the University of Kelaniya, a former Vice-Chancellor of Gampaha Wickramarachchi University of Indigenous Medicine, a former Vice Chairperson of the University Grants Commission (UGC), General President of Sri Lanka Association for Advancement of Science 2020, she has also been the Sri Lankan Ambassador to the Russian Federation.
Her work in environmental and analytical chemistry has achieved national and international recognition as well as numerous awards including Presidential awards for Scientific Research. She is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (UK), Chartered Chemist and Chartered Scientist.
FACS was established in 1979 as a regional organization uniting 28 chemical societies from all over Asia. It aims at advancing the chemical sciences through cooperation, capacity development, and professional networking. Some of its principal activities involve convening the biennial Asian Chemical Congress (AsiaChem), assistance to young scientists, and enhancing scientific research infrastructures in developing nations.
In this new position, Prof Liyanage will voice the interests of South and West Asian chemists at the top level of the Federation. She hopes to develop global collaborations, improve opportunities for young scientists, and align regional research agendas with international sustainable development priorities. She looks forward to developing stronger networks across Asia and promoting chemistry for the good of our societies.
