SJP dean conferred honourary professorship by Russian university
View(s):Senior Professor Shirantha Heenkenda, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura was conferred the honourary professorship of the Ural State University of Economics by Professor Yakov Silin, Rector of the Ural State University of Economics, Russia acknowledging his contribution to advancing academic cooperation between the two institutions.
Professor Heenkenda was honoured at the “XVI Eurasia Economic Youth Forum,” an academic event featuring the theme “Eurasian Synergy: The Unity of the Peoples of Russia in an Era of Global Change,” was held last April, in Yekaterinburg, Russia, bringing together leading international and Russian scholars, students, and representatives.
Professor Heenkenda speaking at the ceremony while appreciating the recognition had emphasised the importance of international academic collaboration in a rapidly evolving global landscape. He noted that the partnership has already yielded tangible outcomes, particularly in enhancing educational opportunities and fostering cross-cultural understanding.
Professor Heenkenda also highlighted that the partnership should extend beyond institutional agreements, broadening the cultural exchange and mutual understanding between Sri Lanka and Russia. He underscored the significance of the Russian language as it opens a window of opportunities and vast body of knowledge in science, literature, and global affairs.
Speaking to the Sunday Times Professor Heenkenda noted that beyond language education, the collaboration has also facilitated joint research activities, academic exchanges, and participation in international competitions. Students from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura have actively engaged in essay competitions and research publications linked to the forum, further strengthening their global academic exposure, he pointed out.
According to Professor Heenkenda, the both universities have expressed their commitment to deepening their cooperation. “Plans are in place to expand academic mobility programmes, enhance collaborative research, and introduce new professional development opportunities for students and staff.”
Since the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding in 2023, the collaboration saw the establishment of a Russian Language Centre and the introduction of a Professional Diploma in Russian Language at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura.
The Professor also noted that since its inauguration in September 2024, the Russian Language programme has played a significant role in the development of language skills in both academic and professional contexts. Russia continues to be one of Sri Lanka’s key tourism markets, and the proficiency in the Russian language is seen as a valuable asset for the country’s tourism and hospitality sectors, he added.
The University of
Sri Jayewardenepura marked its third consecutive year of engagement with the forum since 2023, reinforcing its growing academic ties with Russian universities.
- Wasantha Ramanayake
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