“Expanding Horizons: Delegation from Zhejiang Shuren University, China to the University of Sri Jayewardenepura”

The University of Sri Jayewardenepura is a well-known higher educational institute worldwide with over 100s of international collaborations. Zhejiang Shuren University, China is one of the pioneers that our university has partnerships over the years. As a result of this prolonged mutual understanding and friendship between the two institutions, the University of Sri Jayewardenepura had the privilege of welcoming the delegation from Zhejiang Shuren University, China on 22nd October 2024. The Vice-Chancellor, Senior Professor M.M. Pathmalal, and Deans of the Faculties, Research Council, Innovation, Invention and Venture Creations Council, senior academic staff members and the administrative officers graciously welcomed them to the university.
During this visit, 06 delegates from the Zhejiang Shuren University visited the University of Sri Jayewardenepura including Vice-President Professor Chen Jun, Professor Liu Weiping (Dean, Interdisciplinary Research Academy), Mrs. Zhao Rui (Deputy Dean, School of Humanities and Foreign Languages), Associate Professor Huang Qiubo (School of Economics and Social Welfare), Associate Professor Yin Shanshan (Interdisciplinary Research Academy) and Ms. Liu Jiani (Officer of International Affairs).
The visit had three key objectives, reflecting the deepening ties between our institutions:

1. Awarding an Honorary Professorship to the Vice-Chancellor: In recognition of the leadership and contributions to academia, expertise in research projects, national and international collaborations and research publications, Zhejiang Shuren University has recognized our Vice-Chancellor, Senior Professor M.M. Pathmalal to be awarded the Honorary Professorship in Interdisciplinary Research Academy of their university. This prestigious recognition highlights the ongoing academic and research collaboration between our universities.
2. Opening of the Chinese Language and Cultural Centre: As part of a framework agreement on the joint establishment of the Silk Road Academy, the delegation formally inaugurated the Chinese Language and Cultural Centre at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences. This center aims to foster cultural exchange and language learning, strengthening the bond between Sri Lanka and China. In response to the Belt and Road initiative, adhering to the Silk Road spirit of peace and cooperation, openness and inclusiveness, mutual learning and mutual benefit, both universities will deeply promote and fully integrate the resources of the two universities, with full attention to mutual advantages in scientific research, talent sharing, cultural exchanges and other possible avenues.
3. Exploring New Initiatives and Facilities in E-Commerce: The delegation toured the newly built Faculty Complex of the Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce. In addition, discussions were held regarding the initiation of e-commerce-based internship programs, providing valuable opportunities for students.
4. Establishment of an International Joint Laboratory on Environmental Exposure and Health Research: A significant outcome of the visit was the agreement to establish an international joint laboratory focused on environmental exposure and health research, further cementing our commitment to collaborative research. Both universities will jointly develop or initiate appropriate collaborative projects to facilitate the start-up and long-term development of the joint laboratory and both sides will work together to secure funding for future collaborative research and international collaborative joint funding programmes.
   The visit was enlightened by the cultural show organized by the students of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences. The Chinese delegates will visit some places in Sri Lanka during their stay here to witness the beauty of Sri Lanka. The International Affairs Division of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura organized this event with the guidance of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Shirantha Heenkenda (Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences) and Prof. Dushan Jayawickrama (Dean of the Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce). Prof. Rukmal Weerasinghe and Prof. Janak Kumarasinghe, two of the Senior Academic Staff members of our university affiliated with the Zhejiang Shuren University assisted in collaborating on this visit.
   This visit marks a significant step forward in our shared journey toward academic excellence, intercultural exchange, and joint research endeavors.