The University of Sri Jayewardenepura proudly announces the successful return of Senior Professor Pathmalal Manage, Vice Chancellor of the University, and Professor Shirantha Heenkenda, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, following their participation in the prestigious XV Eurasian Economic Youth Forum. The forum was held at the Ural State University of Economics (USUE) in Yekaterinburg, Russia, from 21st to 25th April 2025. The forum served as a dynamic platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and the exploration of international partnerships. A series of high-level discussions were conducted with Professor Yakov Silin, Rector of USUE, and Professor Roman Krasnov, Vice-Rector of USUE, focusing on a wide range of potential cooperative initiatives. Topics included the development of joint research projects, academic staff and student exchange programs, and broader institutional collaborations aimed at enhancing academic excellence and global engagement. Notably, discussions also centered on the introduction of scholarship opportunities for USJ students enrolled in the Professional Diploma in Russian Language. These students will now have pathways to pursue postgraduate studies including Master’s and Ph.D. programs at USUE under newly established scholarship schemes.
In addition to these productive academic exchanges, USJP delegates actively engaged in the “Dialogue on Equal Terms,” a landmark gathering that brought together ambassadors, consuls, and students at the USUE House of Culture. This event offered a unique opportunity for cultural diplomacy and international networking, emphasizing shared values and mutual understanding across nations. Further elevating USJ’s presence, the representatives participated in the International Diplomatic Forum, an influential meeting attended by leaders of major public associations, business communities, and governmental authorities. Through these interactions, USJ aimed to foster stronger ties not only with educational institutions but also with broader economic and diplomatic sectors, reinforcing the university’s commitment to holistic international cooperation.
Another key highlight was USJ’s participation in the prestigious Forum of Rectors of Universities of Russia and Foreign Countries, held at the Governor’s Residence, the historic N.I. Sevastyanov House. This high-level meeting gathered senior academic leaders from across the globe to discuss strategies for advancing international higher education and fostering global academic solidarity. Beyond formal engagements, the USJ delegation also had the enriching experience of exploring Russian culture firsthand. They attended vibrant cultural events, immersed themselves in traditional Russian customs, and visited major tourist attractions in Yekaterinburg. These cultural experiences deepened their appreciation of Russia’s rich heritage and strengthened the bonds of friendship between the two nations. The University of Sri Jayewardenepura’s active involvement in the XV Eurasian Economic Youth Forum represents a significant milestone in its ongoing journey toward becoming a globally connected institution. Through such international collaborations, USJ remains committed to empowering its academic community and expanding its global reach.
