Bridging Leadership and Early Childhood Practice: Research for Transformative Education
The Research Conference on Educational Leadership & Early Years 2026 (RCELE 2026) was successfully held on 31 January 2026 at Tulip Hall, Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH), Colombo, organised by AIC Campus in collaboration with Plymouth Marjon University, United Kingdom.
RCELE 2026 was organised to promote academic inquiry, research dissemination, and a strong research-oriented culture among students, emerging scholars, researchers, and academics in the fields of education and early childhood studies. The conference provided an inclusive platform for participants to present their research, exchange ideas, engage in critical academic dialogue, and receive constructive feedback from experienced academics.
The conference brought together undergraduate and postgraduate students, doctoral researchers, and academic staff, with research presentations addressing a diverse range of contemporary issues, including educational leadership, early childhood education, equity and access, phonics and language development, teaching methodologies, leadership practices, and educational policy. A total of nine research papers were presented, demonstrating the growing interest in research-informed practice and evidence-based approaches to education.
RCELE 2026 was enriched by the participation of distinguished academics and research leaders. Professor Emmanuel Otu, an internationally recognised academic with extensive experience in research leadership and higher education governance, contributed valuable insights and inspiration to participants. The conference also welcomed Professor Inoka C. Perera, Senior Professor in Molecular Biology at the University of Colombo and Director of Academics and Quality Assurance at IMC AIC Campus, whose contribution highlighted the importance of research excellence, academic rigour, and quality assurance in higher education.
The conference featured keynote addresses by Ms. Hannah Holdgate, Senior Lecturer and Programme Area Lead for Early Years at Plymouth Marjon University, and Ms. Hasini Gajadeera, Senior Lecturer at AIC Campus. Their presentations explored the importance of research-informed leadership, transformative practice in early childhood education, and culturally responsive approaches to addressing educational challenges.
An experienced academic panel comprising Ms. Hasini Gajadeera, Ms. Imesha Wickramaarachchi, and Ms. Nilushi Senadeera, supported the research evaluation and academic review process. Their constructive feedback encouraged presenters to strengthen their research arguments, methodology, academic writing, and future research directions.
Academic excellence was also recognised through two special awards. The Best Research Award was presented to Oshadhi Vindya Herath for “Equity in Access to Early Childhood Education in Sri Lanka: With Special Reference to the Kurunegala District.” The Best Presenter Award was presented to Gayathri Pangoda for “Improving the Pronunciation of Foundational Phonic Sounds through Rhymes: A Secondary Research.” These awards recognised both the quality of research and the ability to communicate research findings effectively.
The successful organisation of RCELE 2026 was supported by the leadership of the IMC AIC Campus senior management and Academic Department, together with the wider AIC team. The collective efforts of academic, administrative, marketing, admissions, and branch operations staff contributed to the smooth and professional delivery of the conference.
Beyond research presentation, RCELE 2026 provided participants with opportunities to develop research confidence, academic presentation skills, critical thinking, professional networks, and engagement with both local and international perspectives. The event further strengthened collaboration between AIC Campus and Plymouth Marjon University and contributed to the development of a vibrant research culture within the institution.
Looking Ahead
RCELE 2026 marks an important milestone in AIC Campus’s commitment to research, academic excellence, international collaboration, and transformative education. The conference has established a strong foundation for continued scholarly engagement and future research initiatives, supporting students and academics in contributing meaningfully to the advancement of education and early childhood practice.
