The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Peradeniya welcomed the delegation from the Thai Embassy, expressing enthusiasm for potential collaborations. Following the welcome, the Vice-Chancellor provided a comprehensive overview of the University of Peradeniya, including it’s faculties, academic programs, staff, students, postgraduate institutions, research initiatives, grant opportunities, etc. Discussions focused on multiple areas of collaboration between the University of Peradeniya and the Thai delegation. In the field of agriculture and food science, the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture emphasized the importance of expanding organic agriculture initiatives while leveraging Sri Lanka’s expertise in sustainable farming. There was also an exchange of ideas regarding functional foods, nutraceuticals, and biotechnology, with a particular focus on strengthening agricultural certification processes to align with EU and UK standards.
In health and medical research, the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine proposed collaborative research in anesthesiology, critical care, Maternal care, and tropical medicine, particularly addressing challenges related to snakebites and pain management. He also mentioned that obtaining a research license with Thailand would be beneficial in facilitating smoother collaboration and expanding joint research opportunities.
Dean of the Faculty of Dental Sciences highlighted potential joint research opportunities in oral cancer and the role of herbal medicine in oral health. The discussion also explored the possibility of exchange programs for students and faculty members in the medical sciences to enhance knowledge-sharing and academic exposure.
Regarding environmental science and sustainability, representatives from the Department of Environmental Sciences proposed collaborative efforts in climate-smart agriculture and carbon neutrality, recognizing the need for joint research on biodiversity conservation and environmental policy. The significance of GIS and remote sensing applications in agriculture and environmental management was also discussed as a potential area for cooperation.
The Dean of the Faculty of Engineering highlighted the need for joint research in AI and data science. The Vice-Chancellor also introduced ongoing projects related to water research andchronic kidney disease, seeking Thai collaboration to further advance these initiatives. Additionally, potential partnerships were explored in engineering projects and technology exchange programs.
Faculty of Arts proposed initiatives to strengthen student and faculty exchange programs, particularly in Buddhist studies, Pali, and Sanskrit. The Faculty of Management highlighted entrepreneurship as a key area for collaboration with international bodies. The Dean of the Faculty of Management expressed keen interest in exploring opportunities for student and staff exchange programs as well as entrepreneurial research collaborations with Thai institutions. The International Relations Office also welcomed Thai students to enroll in postgraduate programs at the University of Peradeniya, reinforcing the importance of cultural exchange and research collaborations in various disciplines.
