At a function organized by the High Commission of India, Colombo on 2nd October, 2006, 100 Sri Lankan students were awarded Mahatma Gandhi scholarships. These students were selected from all the 25 districts of Sri Lanka on the criterion of merit-cum-means on the basis of their performance in 'O' level examinations 2006 as well as interviews jointly conducted by the High Commission of India and Ministry of Education, Government of Sri Lanka. The selected scholars will receive a financial assistance @ Rs. 1500/- per month for a period of two years to enable them to successfully pursue their 'A' level courses.

The event coincided with the 137th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the apostle of peace and non-violence who is described as the 'Father of the Nation' in India and has a strong following in Sri Lanka as well. Speaking on the occasion, High Commissioner of India in Sri Lanka, H.E. Mrs. Nirupama Rao emphasized on relevance and significance of Gandhian philosophy in contemporary era. She highlighted the inspiration provided by the philosophy of 'Ahimsa', non- violence and peace preached by Mahatma Gandhi to several leaders all over the world who struggled and achieved a dignified existence for their people. She expressed hope that this scholarship programme will inspire the young recipients of scholarship to follow the ideals held dear by the Mahatma, and that they will carry forward the message of peace, universal brotherhood and fellow feeling amongst human beings preached by Gandhiji in the days to come.

Deputy Minister of Education Hon'ble Mr. Satchithananthan who graced the occasion thanked the High Commissioner of India and Government of India for taking this initiative to assist and encourage young citizens of Sri Lanka. Education Secretary Mr. Ariyaratne Hewage while highlighting the cultural and social similarities between India and Sri Lanka stated that India is very close to the cultural, social and economic life of Sri Lanka. He quoted several eminent Sri Lankan citizens who had met Mahatma Gandhi during his visit to Sri Lanka during pre-independence days and maintained that adherence to the Gandhian principles of peace, harmony, simple life and high ideals will help the country achieve happiness and all round progress.

Mahatma Gandhi scholarship progarmme which was instituted this year will continue in future and every year 100 or more Sri Lankan students will be selected from all the districts of the country for award of scholarships in the name of Mahatma Gandhi. Depending upon their performance, some of these students can also be selected for ICCR scholarships for various under-graduate and post-graduate courses. Presently, Government of India through the High Commission of India, Colombo awards 75 scholarships to Sri Lankan nationals for pursuing under-graduate and post-graduate courses in various reputed institutes and universities in India. Besides, the High Commission of India also awards 5 Commonwealth Scholarships for research and higher studies and 3 Cultural Exchange Programme scholarships again for research and higher studies. Government of India also offers 2 scholarships through the SAARC Secretariat Kathmandu to Sri Lankan students and a SAARC Chair on rotational basis to member countries of SAARC which comes to Sri Lanka on every sixth year. Government of India also extends short term training facilities for Sri Lankan professionals working both in the Government as well as corporate sector under ITEC and SCAAP programmes and Indian Cultural Centre Colombo awards nearly 12 scholarships for Sri Lankan students to pursue studies in the fine arts etc.