Beyond the Conference Hall: Memories and Lessons from ICOSS 2025” By Sanduni Samarasinghe from Sri Lanka
ICOSS 2025 marked a significant turning point in my academic journey, as it was my first opportunity to participate in an international conference beyond my home country. This experience opened a new chapter in my scholarly life, allowing me to step into a global academic arena and engage with a wider intellectual community. The conference brought together scholars and researchers from diverse disciplines, all united by a shared commitment to exploring contemporary issues affecting societies around the world. Many of the topics and research areas I encountered were entirely new to me, making the experience both eye-opening and intellectually enriching.
I had the honor of representing Aquinas College of Higher Studies, Sri Lanka, at ICOSS 2025. As a lecturer at a prestigious Catholic educational institution and an emerging researcher, I was particularly excited to be part of such a vibrant academic gathering. Presenting my own research in this international setting was not only a proud moment but also a valuable opportunity to grow academically, engage in meaningful dialogue, and gain fresh perspectives that will continue to shape my future work.
Before attending the conference, I had a mix of expectations and curiosity. Presenting my research for the very first time at an international forum was both exciting and challenging. I had hoped that ICOSS 2025 would provide a valuable platform to share my research titled “Laudato Si’ and Muthurajawela: Promoting Ecological Spirituality Related Pastoral Work in Sri Lanka.” This expectation was fulfilled, as I was able to present my paper confidently before an international academic audience.
Sharing my work on Laudato si’ and its religious perspective on ecological consciousness enabled me to articulate my ideas clearly and engage in meaningful academic dialogue. The constructive feedback I received from fellow researchers was particularly valuable. Their questions and comments helped me to view my research from new perspectives and identify areas for further development. It was also encouraging to observe a growing interest in themes related to sustainability, ethics, and environmental stewardship within the academic community. I am particularly interested in integrating the insights gained from the conference into my teaching practice, fostering in my students a more critical and reflective engagement with social and environmental issues. Moreover, the constructive feedback I received on my research will be invaluable as I continue to develop and strengthen my MPhil thesis.
Listening to other presentations was also a valuable learning experience. I encountered a wide range of topics, from social justice and cultural studies to environmental policy and community development. These sessions broadened my understanding of how social science research can contribute to addressing real-world problems. In particular, I noticed a strong focus on sustainability and the role of communities in shaping a more responsible and inclusive future.
Beyond the formal sessions, the conference provided numerous opportunities for networking and informal interaction. Engaging in conversations with fellow participants allowed me to exchange ideas, discuss research interests, and build meaningful academic connections. These interactions were not limited to academic discussions; they also included sharing personal experiences, cultural perspectives, and future aspirations. Such moments reminded me that academic conferences are not only about presenting research but also about building a community of scholars.
On a personal level, ICOSS 2025 was a memorable academic journey in my life. In addition to receiving a paper presentation certificate, I was also honored with the Best Social Media Ambassador Award in recognition of my active engagement and contribution as a digital influencer within the conference’s social media platform. Finally, I look forward to ICOSS 2026, where I will be participating as a returning participant and serving as the country coordinator for Sri Lanka, which is both a privilege and a significant responsibility.
In conclusion, ICOSS 2025 was far more than an academic conference; it was a transformative experience that deepened my understanding of research, strengthened my confidence as a presenter, and enhanced my academic profile. The recognition I received through conference awards, together with the financial support provided by a scholarship from my MPhil funding institute of Missiology, Germany, has been both encouraging and motivating me to pursue my academic journey with renewed enthusiasm. I extend my sincere gratitude for this valuable support.
I would strongly encourage fellow researchers and students to participate in similar academic forums, as they offer invaluable opportunities for both intellectual and personal growth. Experiences like ICOSS 2025 remind us that research is not merely an academic exercise, but a meaningful vocation that contributes to the betterment of society and the world we share.