Envoy visits South Asia Institute of Heidelberg University

Sri Lankan ambassador to Germany Sarath Kongahage visited the South Asia Institute of the University of Heidelberg on the invitation of University of Heidelberg South Asia Institute Anthropology Department Head Professor William S Sax.

He was accompanied by Consul General Pradeep Jayawardhane and Honorary Consul for Sri Lanka in Baden-Wuerttemberg Norbert H Quack.

They were received by Professors of the Departments of Anthropology, History, Modern South Asian Languages and Literature of the University.

Kongahage was briefed by the Professors with regard to research studies undertaken by the South Asia Institute in the Sri Lankan context.

The ambassador added his suggestions with regard to the fields of education in Sri Lanka, where further research can be carried out.

During the interaction, Heidelberg University Rector Prof Bernhard Eitel mentioned that the South Asia Institute of Heidelberg University gives prominence in carrying out research studies on Sri Lanka.

He said funds would be provided for the furtherance of research studies.

Prof Sax suggested establishing summer and winter schools for both Sri Lankan and German researchers for the exchange study programme between Sri Lanka and Germany.

The ambassador said in the event of celebrating the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations of Sri Lanka and Germany in 2013, the university in coordination with the embassy could arrange a series of functions focusing on the cooperation between Sri Lanka and Germany in the field of education and science.

The rector of the university requested the Honorary Consul of Sri Lanka for Baden-Wuerttemberg to coordinate with the Baden Wuertemberg State of Germany for the celebration.