Understanding the necessity to broaden the horizons of learning opportunities of the undergraduates, the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences reached another significant milestone on the 17th February 2022 with the inauguration of the new degree programme; Bachelor of Arts Honours in Japanese.
It has been a focal point in the strategic goals of the faculty to meet the contemporary trends of the world of employment by providing the undergraduates with an opportunity to excel in foreign languages. Hence, the introduction of a new degree that enables the undergraduates to specialize in a language that bridges two nations together opening new possibilities, is considered an important step to further strengthen the mutual understanding between the two countries.
A ceremony was organized by the faculty on the 17th February 2022 at the Sri Sumangala Auditorium of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, as part of the series of events that commemorate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Sri Lanka. The ceremony was graced by the guest of honour, H.E. Mizukoshi Hideaki, the Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka. The other noteworthy dignitaries present at the event include Senior Professor Sampath Amaratunge, the Chairman of the University Grants Commission, Senior Professor Sudantha Liyanage, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Professor Shirantha Heenkenda, the Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, other Deans of the university, academic/ non-academic staff, and students.
The event was also of profound significance in terms of demonstrating the cultural values of Japan and Sri Lanka as the entertainment events symbolized the cultures of both nations. The traditional ‘Ves Dance’ performed by the students from the Department of Languages, Cultural Studies, and Performing Arts of the faculty was truly a graceful expression of the authentic Sri Lankan culture. In addition, the event was made further meaningful as the students from Visakha Vidyalaya, Colombo performed a traditional Japanese dance and also brought delight to the audience with a Japanese song.
The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences extends its warmest appreciation and humble gratitude to everyone who made it possible to realize this historic moment.
