Faculty News

China's Chongqing Normal University and Sri Lanka's Kelaniya University have maintained a long-term relationship. To celebrate the 70th anniversary of Chongqing Normal University, the Vice Chancellor of Kelaniya University, Senior Professor Nilanthi De Silva, along with Dr. Sudath Senarath, the Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, and the co-directors of the Confucius Institute of Kelaniya University, Dr. Wu Hongyuan and Dr. Jani Samarakoon, participated in the celebrations.

Chongqing Normal University organized various programs to celebrate its 70th anniversary from October 17 to 21, 2024. On October 17, the delegation from Kelaniya University flew from Colombo to Kunming and then from Kunming to Chongqing. By that time, the representatives from Chongqing Normal University had already arrived Chongqing Airport, where the delegations from the University of Kelaniya warmly welcomed them.

On October 18, a discussion was held with the Dean of the International Education Office. Proposals were discussed regarding the contribution of Chongqing Normal University to improve the knowledge of the Chinese language and culture of students studying Chinese at the University of Kelaniya. That evening, an exhibition featuring international students was held, where students from various countries studying at Chongqing Normal University showcased their cultures. Among the participants, eight students from the University of Kelaniya, who had gone to study at Chongqing Normal University in September this year, set up a stall representing Sri Lanka. The stall featured displays of Sri Lankan culture. The exhibition provided an excellent opportunity for the Vice-Chancellor and the delegation from our university to meet with Sri Lankan students.

On October 19, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya and the delegation attended the International Chinese Education Cooperation Mechanism Conference. Chongqing Normal University has signed agreements with several other countries in addition to Sri Lanka. These countries are Rwanda, the United Kingdom, and Papua New Guinea. The Chancellors and Confucius Directors of these countries were present on this day. The Chancellors of each country spoke on behalf of the university. At this, our Vice Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya,

Senior Professor Nilanthi de Silva, delivered a speech. She said that this meeting was another reason for us to further improve and maintain the relationship between the two universities. After the speeches of the Chancellors representing the universities of all countries, a special gift exchange took place between Chongqing Normal University and these universities.

On that day, a meeting was held at the International Education Office with eight University of Kelaniya undergraduates currently studying at Chongqing Normal University, as well as five undergraduates from Kelaniya University studying at Xinan University near Chongqing. The undergraduates shared their experiences with the vice-chancellor and the delegation from their respective universities. They also expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to study abroad.

On the evening of October 19, a special cultural performance was held at the Alumni Hall to celebrate the 70th anniversary of Chongqing Normal University. A delegation from the University of Kelaniya attended the event. During the celebration, those who played key roles in the establishment of Chongqing Normal University were honored. Many of them attended in person, while others participated in the cultural performance on Zoom. Notably, a 101-year-old professor, who has been with the university since its founding, attended. Dr. Jani Samarakoon from the University of Kelaniya had the opportunity to speak with him warmly.

All the alumni, current students, and professors of Chongqing Normal University participated in this cultural performance. Chongqing Normal University runs a preschool and primary school, and their students also participated in this performance. In particular, a feature of the undergraduates of the University of Kelaniya was also included in this performance. It was a very colorful and exciting night, remembering all those who gave fame to Chongqing Normal University and those who are no longer alive.

On October 20, a discussion between the universities was held at the Basketball Hall of Chongqing Normal University, initiated by Professor Zhang Yan, Secretary of the University Party Committee. During this meeting, discussions were held on how to improve relations between the two universities, scholarships, master's degrees, and the relationship between Kelaniya University students studying Chinese and Chinese students studying Sinhala.

On October 21st, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya and her delegation returned to Sri Lanka after completing their visit. We hope that the discussions during this visit will be implemented promptly to further strengthen the relationship between Chongqing Normal University and the University of Kelaniya.

The Mid-Autumn Festival is one of China’s major traditional festivals. To commemorate this occasion, the Confucius Institute at the University of Kelaniya (UOK) organized an event on Wednesday, 2nd of October 2024, at 10:00 AM in Dharmaloka Hall.

First, Dr. Jani Samarakoon, Co-Director (for Sri Lanka) of the Confucius Institute at UOK representing Sri Lanka, and Dr. Wu Hongyuan, Co-Director (for China) representing China, delivered the welcome speeches. Following that, the Vice-Chancellor, Senior Professor Nilanthi de Silva, gave her speech, highlighting that the Confucius Institute at UOK is highly active and plays a significant role in strengthening the relationship between Sri Lanka and China.

After that, Ms. Liu Xin and Ms. Buddhima Patali introduced the Mid-Autumn Festival. They explained the history of the festival in China, how people in the past celebrated it, and how it is celebrated today.

Then, one of the most exciting parts of the event began – the mooncake-making experience. Ms. Yang Biying demonstrated how to make mooncakes while Dr. Jani Samarakoon explained the process to the audience. Students from the schools had the opportunity to make mooncakes and enjoy the hands-on experience. They also got to taste the mooncakes afterward.

Finally, the most entertaining part of the event commenced – enjoying the Chinese cultural programs. Students studying Chinese at schools and Chinese undergraduates from universities delivered exciting performances that captivated the audience.

For this event, 150 undergraduates from the University of Kelaniya performed. In addition, approximately 25 students from other universities also performed, contributing two performances to the event. In addition, 300 students from 30 schools participated, contributing three performances to the event. Altogether, 50 outsiders performed in the event, contributing five performances. Overall, there were 500 students and teachers in the audience for this event. This was a wonderful opportunity for them to showcase their enthusiasm for Chinese culture.

Finally, group photos were taken, with each school and university posing for pictures together with the staff of the Confucius Institute at UOK.

Imagine receiving the opportunity to study in a foreign country, immersing yourself in a new culture, and gaining knowledge that will shape your future. For 16 undergraduate and graduate students, this dream has become a reality! These bright and hardworking individuals have won scholarships to pursue their studies in China, opening the door to new experiences and learning opportunities.

Winning a scholarship is more than just financial support; it’s a passport to a world of learning, growth, and unforgettable experiences. For these undergraduate and graduate students, being awarded scholarships to study in China represents a significant personal achievement and the chance to immerse themselves fully in the language and traditions they’ve been studying with passion. These scholarships are invaluable gifts, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore new horizons and bring back knowledge that will enrich their lives and contribute to the development of Sri Lanka.

This year, 16 talented undergraduate and graduate students have won prestigious scholarships in recognition of their excellence and dedication to learning Chinese. Their hard work has opened the door to a unique educational journey. These scholarships are not just rewards; they are keys to exciting adventures filled with cultural experiences, personal growth, and academic success.

Out of these 16 undergraduate and graduate students, four have been awarded scholarships for one year, while twelve have received scholarships for six months. They will be studying at some of China’s top universities, known for their academic reputation and vibrant university life. The universities they will attend include Chongqing Normal University (CNU), Southwest University, Dongbei Finance University, Guizhou University, and Lanzhou University. Each university offers a unique learning environment, providing students with diverse opportunities to grow and succeed.

These undergraduates are not just going to China to study; they are embarking on a journey that will shape their futures and strengthen the ties between Sri Lanka and China. One of the scholarship recipients expressed their excitement, saying, “This is a dream come true. I can’t wait to explore the vibrant culture of China and bring back new knowledge to share with my peers.” Their enthusiasm is remarkable, and it’s clear that they are keen to embrace this extraordinary journey with excitement and wholehearted dedication.

Their success demonstrates the results of hard work and dedication. As these students have now officially departed for China to commence their studies, we send them our heartfelt wishes for success and fulfillment. Their journey has begun, and we eagerly anticipate their future accomplishments.

The Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies of the University of Kelaniya has successfully completed the 3rd Step of the Students’ Welfare Program 2024, generously sponsored by the Glorious Sun Charity Foundation. The event was held on the 28th of July 2024 at the Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies, University of Kelaniya.

This scholarship program aimed to alleviate financial burdens and encourage academic excellence in the field of Pali and Buddhist studies, marking the third significant initiative for the year, providing substantial financial support to 352 deserving undergraduates. Accordingly, each undergraduate was awarded with 22,500 LKR.

The Inaugural Ceremony was graced by the participation of the distinguished guests, Dr. Sudath Senarath, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities; Senior Professor Most Ven. Makuruppe Dhammananda Thero, Head of the Department of Pali and Buddhist Studies; Chair Senior Professor Most Ven. Nabirittankadarawa Gnanaratana Thero; Mr. K. K. K. Dharmathilaka, Registrar of the University of Kelaniya; and other esteemed members of the academic staff.