JICA Chair 2024: Strengthening Bonds, Shaping Futures
The closing ceremony of the JICA Chair Program 2024 at the University of Colombo (UOC) took place on January 23, 2025, marking a successful conclusion to this year’s initiative. This year also marked the third consecutive year the university’s International Division hosted the program. Since its inception, the JICA Chair Program has played a key role in strengthening the relationship between Sri Lanka and Japan, offering valuable insights into Japan’s modernization to Sri Lanka’s younger generation, particularly university students.
The event was attended by several distinguished guests, including Mr. Naoaki Kamoshida, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Japan in Sri Lanka, and Mr. Tetsuya Yamada, Chief Representative of the JICA Sri Lanka Office, the Vice Chancellor, Faculty Deans, and Directors of various Centers and Institutes, also participated in the ceremony.
In his opening remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Senior Professor H. D. Karunaratne, highlighted the significance of the JICA Chair Program, noting its successful implementation since 2022. He underscored the vital role of international collaboration, particularly between Sri Lanka and Japan, in shaping the future of younger generations at Sri Lanka’s leading universities.
Mr. Naoaki Kamoshida expressed his appreciation for the program’s impact and acknowledged the contributions of the University, especially under the leadership of Vice Chancellor Senior Professor Karunaratne. Mr. Tetsuya Yamada commended the innovative additions to this year’s program, including the introduction of new lectures, and encouraged students to continue learning beyond the program. He also emphasized the importance of the program in further strengthening Sri Lanka-Japan ties.
The ceremony also celebrated with a panel discussion featuring four outstanding participants. The discussion centered on key topics such as agricultural development in Japan, Japan’s disaster risk reduction measures, the country’s economic development, and the Japanese government’s contributions to the education sector. The panel also explored challenges in Sri Lanka that could benefit from similar development models and highlighted potential learnings from Japan’s experiences.
This year, 110 students successfully completed the program, earning certificates in recognition of their dedication and the knowledge gained throughout this enriching academic experience.
The closing ceremony not only marked the end of another successful year of the JICA Chair Program but also reaffirmed the ongoing partnership between Sri Lanka and Japan, paving the way for continued collaboration, learning, and future initiatives that will benefit both nations.
