The Sri Lanka–China Friendship Association (SLCFA) proudly announced the successful conclusion of the 2025 Chinese Yunnan Provincial Government Scholarship Award Ceremony, held on 22nd August 2025 at C.M.S. Sri Jayawardenapura College – Kotte. The event marked an important milestone in strengthening educational and people-to-people ties between Sri Lanka and China.
Representing SLCFA, Mr. Aruna Goonatilleke, Executive Vice President, and Mr. Prasad Wijesuriya, General Secretary, attended this special occasion. The ceremony was also graced by Mr. Hettiarachchige Ranjith, Principal of the College; Ven. Niyagama Kolitha Thero, Deputy Principal; members of the academic staff, parents, and students.
The 2025 scholarship programme was made possible with the support of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Sri Lanka and the Yunnan Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries. In line with the selection criteria, SLCFA conducted a comprehensive series of interviews among numerous applicants. Following a transparent and thorough evaluation process, Mr. Chamidu Kavinga, a student of C.M.S. Sri Jayawardenapura College – Kotte, was selected as the scholarship recipient.
At the ceremony, the official scholarship certificate was formally presented to Mr. Kavinga by Mr. Aruna Goonatilleke, symbolizing the beginning of a transformative academic journey in China. Under this fully funded scholarship award, the selected international student receives coverage for tuition fees, on-campus accommodation, comprehensive medical insurance, and a monthly living stipend, along with secured entrance to the Yunnan University of Finance and Economics.
In his welcome address, Principal Mr. Hettiarachchige Ranjith expressed his pride in the achievement of his student and the recognition received by the school. He highlighted the challenges faced by the students in their learning environment, commended their perseverance, and extended heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated teaching staff. He further acknowledged the instrumental role played by SLCFA and the valued partnership in making this opportunity a reality.
Addressing the gathering, Ven. Niyagama Kolitha Thero, Deputy Principal, emphasized the importance of cultivating long-term educational and cultural links with China. He stated that the school looks forward to collaborating with SLCFA on future China-friendly initiatives, especially in the area of student exchanges and youth networking.
Delivering the keynote address, SLCFA General Secretary Mr. Prasad Wijesuriya shared valuable insights into university life in China, guiding the students on how to embrace opportunities for personal growth and academic success. He underscored the increasing importance of learning the Chinese language in a rapidly globalising world and highlighted the ongoing and upcoming development projects in Sri Lanka supported through Sri Lanka–China cooperation. He further extended special thanks to the officials of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Sri Lanka, the Yunnan Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, and the Ministry of Education of China for their unwavering support throughout the scholarship process.
The scholarship ceremony stands as a testament to the shared commitment of Sri Lanka and China toward enhancing educational exchange and building a community of friendship for future generations. Through this programme, SLCFA continues to strengthen its mission of fostering lasting bilateral ties rooted in mutual respect, opportunity, and cultural understanding.
