The Election Commission has announced that Samantha Ranasinghe of the National People’s Power (NPP) has been elected as a Member of Parliament to fill the vacancy created by the passing of NPP Kegalle District MP, Kosala Nuwan Jayaweera.

Ranasinghe, who served as the Rambukkana Electoral Organizer of the National People’s Power during the 2024 parliamentary election, was next on the NPP list based on the preference votes obtained.

According to the official announcement, Ratnayake Mudiyanselage Samantha Ranasinghe has been elected as a Member of Parliament for the No. 22 – Kegalle Electoral District under Section 62 of the Parliamentary Elections Act, No. 1 of 1981.

NSBM Green University (NSBM) has entered into a landmark partnership with American University (AU),Washington, USA, to deliver an exclusive transfer pathway for bachelor’s degrees in Sri Lanka. 

This partnership enables Sri Lankan students to commence their degree studies at NSBM Green University and seamlessly transfer toAU to complete the final two years, earning an internationally recognized American University degree in Business Administration.

The collaboration between NSBM and AU was initiated by the Embassy of Sri Lanka in the USA, under the guidance of Ambassador H.E. Mahinda Samarasinghe, with a strong commitment to identifying partnership opportunities for higher educational institutions in Sri Lanka. It stands as a significant milestone in NSBM’s global expansion efforts, with a commitment to offering students cost-effective, world-class educational opportunities.

The official signing ceremony of this landmark partnership took place on 4th April 2025 at NSBM Green University, Homagama, in the esteemed presence of Her Excellency Julie Chung, U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka. Representing the Vice Chancellor of NSBM Green University, Prof. E. A. Weerasinghe, the agreement was formally signed by Ms.Thilini De Silva, Dean of the Faculty of Business at NSBM, together with Ms. Tashina Giraud, Director of InternationalPartnerships and Strategic Initiatives at American University.

As part of the signing ceremony, Her Excellency Ambassador Julie Chung and the visiting dignitaries toured the NSBM Green University premises, engaging in discussions and exploring the campus. In honor of Her Excellency’s visit, a tree-planting ceremony was held at the NSBM Phase 2 site, where H.E. the Ambassador planted a Naa Tree – Sri Lanka’s national tree – underscoring the university’s commitment to environmental sustainability and long-term growth.

Her Excellency Julie J. Chung, U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka

“It is a proud moment to witness this partnership between American University and NSBM Green University—apowerful reflection of the enduring ties between the United States and Sri Lanka. The United States continues to attract the brightest minds and foster innovations that shape the future. With the signing of this 2+2 agreement, SriLankan students now have the opportunity to pursue a world-class Business Administration degree—beginning their journey here in Sri Lanka and completing it in Washington, D.C. This collaboration not only equips students with valuable business leadership skills but also strengthens both our economies and lays the groundwork for future cooperation. It’s an investment in education that promotes long-term growth, prosperity, and mutual success.”

H.E. Mahinda Samarasinghe, Sri Lankan Ambassador to the U.S.

“This marks a significant milestone in Sri Lanka’s higher education that will enhance international engagement and open invaluable avenues for Sri Lankan students on the world stage. While I take immense pleasure in ourEmbassy’s role in facilitating this partnership, I would like to extend my warmest wishes to NSBM Green University andAmerican University for a truly transformative partnership.”

Prof. E. A. Weerasinghe, Vice Chancellor, NSBM Green University, Sri Lanka

“We, at NSBM Green University, always remain committed to expanding our global outreach. This partnership with American University reinforces this commitment while ushering a new era of international engagement. Weare deeply hopeful and excited about the world-class learning opportunities and global career prospects this collaboration brings to empower Sri Lanka’s youth for future success.”

Ms. Tashina Giraud, Director of International Partnerships and Strategic Initiatives, American University, USA
“We are thrilled to collaborate with NSBM Green University in this exciting step towards expanding our global reach. This partnership will open many new pathways and enrich the academic experiences of students from both of our institutions. We look forward to a mutually enriching and fruitful collaboration through the exchange of knowledge and culture.”

The Ministry of Education has announced the conclusion and commencement of the academic terms of government schools for the year 2025.

According to the Ministry, the second stage of the 1st Term will conclude on this Friday (April 11).

The third stage of the 1st School Term this year will begin on April 21 and end on May 09.