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On 17 December, 2009 the High Commission of India held a reception at Hotel Taj Samudra to commemorate the birth anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, the first Minister of Education of Independent India, and celebrate International Students’ Day. Over 300 Sri Lankan Alumni of Indian institutions attended the reception. The Minister for Higher Education, Hon. Prof. Wishwa Warnapala graced the occasion as Chief Guest. Besides, Hon. Mr. P. Radhakrishnan, Deputy Minister for Vocational Training; Hon. Mr. V. Radhakrishnan, Minister of Education for Central Province; Secretary, Ministry of Higher Education, Mrs. Rupa Malini Peiris, and Vice Chancellors and academics of a number of leading Sri Lankan Universities were also present.

In his remarks, Prof. Warnapala highlighted the achievements and contributions of Maulana Azad in the field of education and made a special mention of the close educational linkages between Sri Lanka and India. He thanked India for assistance extended to Sri Lanka in the field of education. The High Commissioner of India, H.E. Mr. Ashok K. Kantha, emphasized in his remarks the importance of education as a link between India and Sri Lanka and noted that India was keen on making education a core area of cooperation between India and Sri Lanka. He also noted that such a large body of Sri Lankan students educated in India was a source of pride to India and an invaluable asset in promoting ties of friendship and goodwill between the two countries. He added that the High Commission looked forward to working together with Sri Lankan alumni of Indian institutions for promoting goodwill and people to people contacts and understanding between the two countries.

A short cultural programme was also presented by the Indian Cultural Centre on this occasion.

India has emerged as a favourite destination for students worldwide for higher education on account of the quality education afforded at a reasonable prices by Indian Universities and other institutions for higher education. This is especially true for Sri Lankan students on account of physical proximity and the age old ties between the two countries.

Colombo