Senior Professor P.M.C. Thilakerathne has commenced his second term as Vice Chancellor of the Open University of Sri Lanka, effective from June 23, 2024. Previously, Prof. Thilakerathne served a three-year tenure in the same role During his tenure at the university, Prof. Thilakerathne successfully introduced pioneering academic programmes such as the Master of Science in Energy of Circular Economy and a Post Graduate Degree programme in collaboration with the Universities of Peradeniya, Moratuwa, Ruhuna, and European institutions, sponsored by the European Union.

His leadership has significantly contributed to the Open University becoming one of Sri Lanka’s premier national universities, recognised internationally for its innovative approaches. Before assuming the Vice Chancellorship, Prof. Thilakerathne held the position of Senior Professor of Finance in the Accountancy Department at the University of Kelaniya. He began his career at the university as an Assistant Lecturer and progressed through the ranks to achieve Senior Professor.