DAAD Strengthens Academic and Research Cooperation Between Sri Lanka and Germany Through Institutional Visits

The delegation, led by Mr. Arthur Rapp, Director of the DAAD Regional Office in New Delhi, India together with DAAD Sri Lanka, engaged with key stakeholders in higher education, research, and international cooperation to explore new opportunities for collaboration and academic exchange.

As part of the visit, the delegation met with representatives of the National Science Foundation (NSF), Sri Lanka, to discuss the ongoing NSF–DAAD Scheme for Project-Related Personnel Exchange (PPP) Programme. The programme supports bilateral research collaboration and academic exchange between Sri Lankan and German institutions, providing opportunities for researchers to develop joint projects and strengthen international partnerships. Discussions also explored additional avenues for scientific cooperation and future collaborative initiatives.

The delegation also visited the University of Kelaniya, where discussions focused on the development of German Studies in Sri Lanka and opportunities to further enhance academic cooperation between Sri Lankan and German universities. The visit included an information session for students and academics on study and research opportunities in Germany, highlighting pathways for international higher education, research collaboration, and academic mobility.

Continuing its engagement with Sri Lankan higher education institutions, DAAD Sri Lanka and Mr. Rapp visited the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. During the visit, the delegation toured the Faculty of Engineering, gaining valuable insights into the university’s academic programmes, research activities, and ongoing development initiatives. Discussions were held with Senior Prof. Pathmalal M. Manage, Vice Chancellor, Prof. Lasith Gunawardena, Co-Chair of the The Innovation, Invention, and Venture Creation Council (IIVCC) and Prof. Sandamali Galdolage, Director of the Centre for International Affairs, focusing on opportunities to expand collaboration in research, innovation, internationalization, and student and staff mobility.

In addition, the DAAD delegation paid a courtesy visit to the Goethe-Institut Sri Lanka, where they met with the Institut’s Director Mr. Stefan Winkler and Mr. Rakitha Karunaratne, Deputy Director. The meeting provided an opportunity to exchange ideas on strengthening German language education, cultural cooperation, and academic outreach initiatives in Sri Lanka, while reaffirming the shared commitment to fostering closer educational and cultural ties between the two countries.

The series of visits reflects DAAD’s ongoing commitment to supporting meaningful partnerships between Sri Lankan and German institutions and creating new opportunities for students, researchers, and academics. Through continued collaboration in higher education, research, and cultural exchange, both countries are further strengthening a long-standing partnership that contributes to innovation, knowledge sharing, and international academic engagement.