The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (FHSS) of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura (USJ) successfully conducted a two-day international collaboration programme with RUDN University, Russia, on 26 and 27 October 2026, focusing on Trade, Education and Tourism (TET). The programme aimed to strengthen academic cooperation, promote cultural exchange, and explore opportunities to enhance economic, educational and tourism relations between Sri Lanka and Russia.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Senior Professor Shirantha Heenkenda, Acting Vice-Chancellor of USJ and Dean of FHSS; Professor Gamini Weerasinghe, Head of the Department of Economics; academic staff members; and students from both universities. The Russian delegation comprised Professor Kulumbegov M. Mikhail, Professor Dyatlova I. Maria, and Professor Sokolan S. Daria. Academic sessions explored the economies and education systems of both countries, Sri Lanka’s tourism potential, wellness tourism, and Russian culture, providing valuable insights into opportunities for bilateral cooperation.
The programme also highlighted Sri Lanka’s wellness tourism industry through a session conducted by Senior Lecturer Dr. Raveendra Withanachchi of the Department of Anthropology, focusing on traditional wellness practices, spices, and their potential in tourism development. The day concluded with a cultural show showcasing Sri Lanka’s diverse cultural heritage, including Kandyan, Low Country and Sabaragamuwa dance traditions. On the second day, academic sessions focused on the education systems of Sri Lanka and Russia, followed by a presentation on Sri Lanka’s tourism industry by Mr. Laksiri Karunananda, highlighting tourism opportunities and Russian visitor preferences. RUDN University students also introduced aspects of Russian culture, including traditional cuisine, national costumes, historical landmarks and tourism destinations.
A key highlight of the programme was the group project presentations and defences, during which students from both universities presented collaborative proposals addressing opportunities in trade, education and tourism. These activities encouraged teamwork, analytical thinking, knowledge sharing and intercultural engagement. As part of the experiential learning component, RUDN University students also participated in a Wellness and Spiritual Development Programme at Barnhouse, Panadura, featuring yoga, singing bowl relaxation, forest bathing and leaf imprinting, followed by a Sri Lankan dinner that offered further exposure to local food culture and wellness traditions.
