A meeting was held on 19th September 2025, from 11.45 a.m. to 12.30 p.m., at the Vice Chancellor’s Office, University of Peradeniya, between H.E. Dewi Gustina Tobing, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia, and Prof. Sanath Rajapakse, Acting Vice Chancellor of the University of Peradeniya. The Ambassador was accompanied by Ms. Lailal Khairiyah Yuniarti, Minister Counsellor and Head of the Chancery; Mr. Yadi Suriahadi, Counsellor; and Ms. N. Kasuni Malsha, Secretary to the Ambassador. The University delegation included Prof. Sanath Rajapakse, Acting Vice Chancellor; Prof. S.P.K. Malaviarachchi, Director, International Relations Office; and Ms. Thushanika Pakkiyarasa, Project Manager, International Relations Office.
The meeting commenced with brief introductions from both parties, followed by a discussion on possible areas of collaboration. The Indonesian delegation expressed particular interest in the University’s faculties and academic programmes, with a specific focus on agricultural programmes, especially Plant Physiology. They also inquired about the University’s facilities, student life, and other academic support systems.
Both parties explored the possibility of initiating collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with an Indonesian university. Prof. Malaviarachchi informed the delegation that, while obtaining the necessary approvals for a formal MoU may take some time, initial activities such as student and staff exchange programmes could commence through a Letter of Intent (LoI). Once the MoU is formally approved by the relevant authorities, additional collaborative activities can be implemented. Additionally, the Ambassador requested nominations of two students who wish to participate in masters degree programmes in Indonesia. The discussion also covered opportunities for broader academic collaboration across multiple disciplines, reflecting a shared interest in strengthening academic ties between the University of Peradeniya and Indonesian institutions.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties expressing commitment to pursuing collaborative initiatives and maintaining close communication for follow-up actions.
