Speech Olympiad, the annual intra-university speech contest organized by the Gavel Club of the University of Moratuwa, is a long-awaited event for all gaveliers and public speaking enthusiasts.
The preliminary round was held on January 19, 2025, at the university premises, with the participation of over 75 enthusiastic contestants from all faculties. Not only were the competitors eager to secure a place among the 12 semifinalists, but they were also exhilarated by the learning experience.
The day leading up to the preliminary round was buzzing with excitement and vigorous preparation. From finalizing scripts to perfecting deliveries late into the night, the gaveliers formed new companionships and made cherished memories through their shared efforts to succeed in the event.
On the much-anticipated day, all the contestants gathered at the TMLE. They were seen fine-tuning their speeches in giddy nervousness before being ushered into the opening ceremony. Gavelier Sasindi Peiris commenced the event by welcoming everyone, and Gavelier Damsith Adikari, one of the Contest Chairs, briefed the participants on the rules and regulations. The contestants were then led to their respective halls by the Sergeant-at-Arms.
Soon, all four halls were filled with inspiring and jaw-dropping speeches. Each carried messages and stories that resonated with the audience—some filled the room with roaring laughter, while others left listeners deep in thought. It was evident how much hard work and dedication each competitor had poured into their speeches. Gaveliers scurried from one hall to another with wide grins, cheering their friends on.
The event proceeded smoothly, thanks to the support of all the role players. The Sergeant-at-Arms diligently secured the halls, ensuring that no contestant was interrupted, while timers displayed the colored cards to help participants stay within the time limits.
As the day rolled into noon, the judges counted their ballots, and everyone nervously gathered once again to hear the announcement of the semifinalists. The Chief Judge read out the list of 12 semifinalists and reserved semifinalists. Each name announced was met with thundering applause that seemed to shake the floor.
Semifinalists:
- Afrah Rumie
- Amirthvarshani Ananthan
- Aloka Fernando
- Anuja Mahamalage
- Harshi Gunawardhane
- Hemindi Kalubovila
- Neelayadhakshi Priyadhakshan
- Nethu Lamahewa
- Ranuja Jayawardena
- Ravitha Perera
- Thulasithan Gnanenthiram
- Unduli Senadheera
Reserved Semifinalists:
- Hasith Nettikumara
- Rasika Gunasekara
- Sadil Jayatilaka
- Thilakshan Balakrishnan
Furthermore, the Chief Judge commented on how mesmerizing all the speeches were and congratulated everyone who participated in the contest. As soon as the event wrapped up, the hall erupted into lively laughter and chatter. Everyone wanted to congratulate the semifinalists and seemed over the moon with excitement. It was such a merry chaos that Gavelier Udula had to usher them in for the mandatory photoshoot.
With a keytag in hand as a keepsake, the crowd dispersed happily, knowing they had created a memory they would cherish forever.
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