The Kotalawela Defence University became only Sri Lankan university to have a physical convocation ceremony since the outbreak of the pandemic.

The convocation of the KDU is currently underway under the patronage of President Gotabhaya Rajapaksa.

Convocation ceremonies of other universities were held virtually citing public health risks. This came under severe criticism from many groups in the university community who said "virtual convocation ceremonies" deprived graduates of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity — a ceremonious convication.

However, it is not exactly clear as to how the Kotalawala Defence University was granted permission to conduct their convocation ceremony while the pandemic is still raging across the country.