InRO News

Visit of the Ambassador of Cuba to the University of Peradeniya

April 06, 2026

The Ambassador of Cuba to Sri Lanka and Maldives, H.E. Patricia Lázara Pego Guerra, paid an official visit to the University of Peradeniya on 2nd April 2026 at 3.00 p.m. The meeting was held at the Vice Chancellor’s Office.

The Ambassador was accompanied by Dr. Suranga Fernando, Community Medical Officer, Ministry of Health. Representing the University of Peradeniya were Prof. Terrence Madhujith, Vice Chancellor; Prof. Ranjith Pallegama, Deputy Vice Chancellor; Prof. Sanjeewa Malaviarachchi, Director of the International Relations Office (InRO); and Ms. Thushanika Pakkiyarasa, Project Manager of the InRO. Prior to the meeting, the Public Relations Officer Mr. Mahesh Abeywickrama, guided H.E. the Ambassador and Dr. Fernando for a University visit.

As this marked the Ambassador’s first visit to a university in Sri Lanka, the Vice Chancellor provided a comprehensive overview of the University of Peradeniya, including its academic structure, research strengths, and international engagement initiatives. In response, H.E. the Ambassador shared valuable insights into the higher education system in Cuba, highlighting its institutional framework, universities, academic programs, and opportunities for international collaboration.

The primary focus of the discussion was to explore avenues for strengthening academic cooperation between the University of Peradeniya and universities in Cuba. The Ambassador expressed a strong interest in initiating collaborations through the establishment of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), particularly in the areas of academic exchange, joint research, and institutional partnerships.

Furthermore, H.E. the Ambassador emphasized her keen interest in facilitating connections between the University of Peradeniya and multiple universities in Cuba, with the administrative support from the University Grants Commission (UGC), Sri Lanka, aiming at developing long-term collaborative agreements for enhancing bilateral academic engagement. The meeting concluded with mutual interest in advancing these discussions and taking necessary steps toward formalizing partnerships in the near future.

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