On the 18th of September 2024, the University of Sri Jayewardenepura had the privilege of welcoming a delegation from the Ural State University of Economics (USUE), Russian Federation. This remarkable event embraced the significant partnership between the University of Sri Jayewardenepura (USJ) and Ural State University of Economics, Russia. This collaboration marked the establishment of a Russian Language Center at USJ, with the support of His Excellency Levan S. Dzhagaryan, Ambassador of Russia to Sri Lanka.
The delegates were graced by Senior Professor M. M. Pathmalal, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Prof. Shirantha Heenkenda, the Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, deans from other faculties, heads of the departments, students, along with distinguished guests from both universities. Special recognition was given to Professor Roman Krasnov, the Vice Rector of Ural State University of Economics and the key pillar of this collaboration and Maria L. Popova, the Head of the Russian Cultural Centre for their pivotal roles in making this partnership a reality. Virtually joining, the event was graced by Prof. Yakov Silin, the Rector of Ural State University of Economics. His involvement and collaboration with our university mark a significant chapter in the academic journey. Mr. Ramanayake, Chief Executive Officer of the Russian Cultural Centre, representatives from the Russian Cultural Centre and industry representatives were also joined this momentous occasion.
This day marks a significant milestone in both the academic advancement of our university and in the strengthening of ties between our two nations. The establishment of the Russian Language Centre at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura is a testament to our commitment to expanding global engagement, deepening cultural understanding, and providing our students with the tools they need to thrive in an interconnected world. We hope that this initiation of the Professional Diploma in Russian Language and the Opening of the Russian Language Centre at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, in collaboration with the Ural State University of Economics, will open new doors for our students, fostering a deeper engagement with Russian language and culture. This event was facilitated by the International Affairs Division of the university.