InRO News

Strengthening Ties with Canada: Visit of the Canadian High Commissioner to the University of Peradeniya
| 29^th October 2025

Her Excellency Isabelle Martin, High Commissioner of Canada to Sri Lanka, accompanied by Ms. Gwen Temmel, Deputy High Commissioner, visited the University of Peradeniya on 29th October 2025. The meeting was held at the Office of the Vice-Chancellor and attended by Prof. Ranjith Pallegama, Acting Vice-Chancellor; Prof. S.P.K. Malaviarachchi, Director, International Relations Office; Prof. D.K.N.G. Pushpakumara, Director, Postgraduate Institute of Agriculture; and Ms. Thushanika Pakkiyarasa, Project Manager, International Relations Office.

The visit served as an introductory courtesy call, during which the Acting Vice-Chancellor welcomed the delegation and introduced the University’s academic programmes and achievements. He emphasized the importance of strengthening academic and research collaborations with Canadian institutions to further enhance bilateral ties.

Her Excellency expressed her interest in continuing and expanding cooperation with the University, particularly through initiatives that promote mutual learning, postgraduate opportunities, and institutional partnerships.

The Director of the International Relations Office highlighted the University’s six existing Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Canadian institutions and discussed prospects for expanding collaborations through double degree programmes, joint online initiatives, and research partnerships.

Both parties identified Artificial Intelligence (AI), technology, and renewable energy as key areas for future collaboration. The meeting concluded on a positive note, reaffirming the shared commitment to further strengthen academic and research linkages between the University of Peradeniya and Canadian institutions.