COLOMBO :In a moment of profound spiritual significance and international goodwill, the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Harini Amarasuriya, presented commemorative mementoes to senior representatives of Canterbury Christ Church University during the sacred Gangaramaya Temple Perahera 2026, in recognition of their contributions to community service and the advancement of inclusive global education.
The Pro Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Mohamed Abdel-Maguid, was presented with a commemorative memento by the Prime Minister in appreciation of his leadership in promoting interdisciplinary transnational education (TNE) partnerships that link higher education with social responsibility and widen participation through global collaboration. Joining him at this prestigious ceremony was Associate Professor Dababrata Narayan Chowdhury, who also participated in the event.
Sacred Ceremony at a Historic Temple
The presentation took place at the opening of the revered procession held at Gangaramaya Temple, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic Buddhist institutions, renowned for its spiritual leadership, humanitarian service, and preservation of cultural heritage.
Professor Abdel-Maguid and Associate Professor Chowdhury attended the event upon the invitation of the Prime Minister and under the patronage of Venerable Dr Kirinde Assaji Thero, the Chief Incumbent of Gangaramaya Temple.
Education, Service, and Cultural Harmony
The recognition highlighted the University’s commitment to integrating education with community service and promoting inclusive access to learning through interdisciplinary and transnational pathways. Religious and civic leaders present at the ceremony emphasised the importance of uniting spiritual values with modern education to foster compassion, mutual respect, and sustainable development.
“This recognition reflects a beautiful harmony between tradition and transformation, where education becomes a bridge between nations and a force for social good,” a senior official remarked during the event.
Strengthening UK–Sri Lanka Educational Relations
The participation and recognition of Canterbury Christ Church University’s leadership at the Gangaramaya Perahera marked a significant milestone in strengthening educational and cultural ties between Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom. Through its TNE initiatives, the University continues to provide learners with globally recognised academic pathways while remaining rooted in values of inclusivity, community engagement, and international cooperation.
The ceremony concluded with blessings from the Maha Sangha and a message of hope that such global collaborations will continue to nurture future generations through knowledge, service, and shared responsibility.
A beautiful beginning to the sacred procession, the presentation of commemorative mementoes to Professor Mohamed Abdel-Maguid and Associate Professor Dababrata Narayan Chowdhury by Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya stood as a powerful testament to how education, faith, and community can unite to create lasting impact, locally and globally.
