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By Asia Education Review , Friday, 14 February 2025 11:50:30 AM

Sri Lanka and India Formalize Educational Collaboration with Somaiya University

  • The Sri Lanka Consulate General in Mumbai, in partnership with the Export Development Board (EDB), fosters educational cooperation between Somaiya Vidyavihar University in Mumbai and several prominent Sri Lankan institutions.

    Acting Consul General of Sri Lanka in Mumbai, Mrs. Shirani Ariyarathne together with Mrs. Kumudini Irugalbandara from EDB organized several video conferences for Somaiya Vidyavihar University with the University of Kelaniya, and the Nagananda International Institute for Buddhist Studies (NIIBS), to explore multifaceted collaboration towards faculty exchange programs, student exchange initiatives, and collaborative research projects across diverse fields.

    The EDB facilitated in arranging meetings with the University of Kelaniya and the NIIBS during the visit of Dr Satyendra Upadhyay, Director International Relations, Somaiya Vidyavihar University to Sri Lanka on 30th January 2025.

    The meetings focused on several important objectives on ;

    Strengthening Bilateral Academic Relations to explore opportunities for joint research and academic exchange programs.
    Cultural Exchange and Understanding in promoting cultural awareness and appreciation through educational initiatives.
    Collaborative Research Opportunities in identifying potential areas for collaborative research that can benefit both countries.
    Student and Faculty Exchange Programs to enhance learning experiences
    Dr Satyendra Upadhyay stated that there is a greater demand among the Indian students learning Pali language, as the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved to confer the status of Classical Language to, Pali language in 2024.

    The discussions resulted in the identification of several key areas of shared interest between universities in both countries. These include the introduction of diploma courses recognized in both nations, the establishment of joint certificate programs, and the potential development of dual degree programs and collaborative PhD initiatives in the future. Additionally, scholarship opportunities for international students were emphasized, along with the proposal for joint publications, including projects focused on ancient manuscripts. The idea of hosting a joint educational conference and celebrating Buddhist festivals at Somaiya University, such as Vesak and Poson, was also discussed, with the vision of making it an annual event.

    These meetings marked a promising start for enhancing the educational and research collaboration between the two countries. Participants demonstrated a strong dedication to creating an environment characterized by mutual respect and shared learning. By pooling knowledge and resources, both countries can significantly improve the academic experience for students and faculty alike, fostering joint research initiatives that may lead to groundbreaking discoveries. Ultimately, this partnership will hold the potential to transform the educational landscape for all stakeholders involved.

    The Export Development Board (EDB), in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Consulate General in Mumbai, is working with Somaiya Vidyavihar University and Sri Lankan universities to establish this partnership.

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