News

SL’s first-ever certificate course in Hindi via open & distance learning, launched

Published

6 days ago

January 11, 2025

editor

In a historic step toward promoting Hindi education in Sri Lanka, the country’s first certificate course in Hindi through open and distance learning was launched yesterday (Jan. 10).

The event took place during the Bharat-Sri Lanka Hindi Sammelan, organized by the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC), the cultural arm of the High Commission of India in Colombo, to mark the 50th-anniversary celebrations of World Hindi Day.
The certificate course, a collaborative initiative between the Open University of Sri Lanka and the SVCC, aims to make Hindi learning more accessible nationwide through the University’s Study Centers. The programme reflects the increasing demand for Hindi as an international language and marks a new milestone in academic cooperation between India and Sri Lanka.

The course was launched by Mr. Santosh Jha – High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, Dr. Madhura Seneviratne – Deputy Minister of Education and Higher Education of Sri Lanka, Professor Kapila Seneviratne – Chairman of the University Grants Commission in Sri Lanka and Professor P. M. C. Thilakarathne -Vice-Chancellor of the Open University of Sri Lanka.

The Bharat-Sri Lanka Hindi Sammelan was presided over by Dr. Madhura Seneviratne, Deputy Minister of Education and Higher Education of Sri Lanka as the Chief Guest, alongside High Commissioner. In his remarks, the Deputy Minister emphasised Hindi language as a “communication bridge” between the two countries. He also lauded the role of music and entertainment industry of India in popularising the language across the world.

The Hindi Sammelan saw over 400 scholars, teachers, and students from India, Sri Lanka and Nepal participating. The day-long event included three plenary sessions with 25 distinguished speakers, a poetry recital, cultural performances celebrating shared heritage, and an open forum on the role of Hindi in modern education. The celebrations concluded with the screening of the Bollywood film English Vinglish, marking the finale of the Indian Film Fest 2025.

World Hindi Day, observed annually on January 10, commemorates the language’s global recognition when Hindi was first spoken at the United Nations General Assembly in 1949. In Sri Lanka, Hindi is now taught in 88 schools and nine public universities, reflecting its growing popularity. The launch of the Hindi certificate course signifies a milestone in promoting Hindi learning in Sri Lanka, creating opportunities for linguistic exchange and strengthening ties between the two nations.

🇮🇳🇱🇰 Hindi Sammelan in Colombo to mark 50th #WorldHindiDay!

Bharat-Sri Lanka Hindi Sammelan by @iccr_colombo brought together 400+ participants from 🇮🇳🇱🇰🇳🇵. The event was graced by HC @santjha, Deputy Edu. Min Hon. Dr. Madhura Seneviratne & UGC Chairman Prof. Kapila Seneviratne. pic.twitter.com/9ahqoW3AHj
— India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) January 10, 2025

News

Ministry to restore idle government vehicles

Published

4 minutes ago

January 17, 2025

editor

The Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils, and Local Government has announced plans to repair unused government vehicles currently stored in warehouses.

Minister Professor Chandana Abeyratne revealed that numerous vehicles belonging to various departments are idle and in poor condition. However, some of these vehicles can be repaired and reintroduced into service to address the shortage of functional vehicles that has been impacting government institutions.

The ministry plans to identify repairable vehicles, carry out necessary maintenance, and return them to operational use. Additionally, a special investigation will be conducted to ensure that government vehicles assigned to ministries and provincial councils are being utilized effectively and responsibly.

Source – News1st

News

Writ petition against Mannar Wind Power Project fixed for May 23

Published

36 minutes ago

January 17, 2025

editor

A writ petition seeking an order to prevent authorities from issuing any permits or approvals for carrying out the wind power plant project on Mannar Island was yesterday fixed for May 23 by the Court of Appeal.

The petition was filed by the President of the Sri Lanka Green Organization, Sanka Chandima Abhayawardena. Counsel appearing on behalf of the Attorney General informed Court that several important applications related to the matter are scheduled to be called before the Supreme Court in March.

The Attorney General’s Department further stated that the Government has not yet made a final decision regarding the project. Taking these facts into consideration, Court of Appeal Judge S. U. B. Karalliyadde scheduled the petition for May 23.

The Petitioner stated that the Cabinet of Ministers of previous regime, has purportedly decided to award the Construction and operation of the Mannar Wind Power Project (Phase-II) in the Mannar Island to Adani Green Energy Sri Lanka Limited (AGESL), as a Build, Own and Operate (BOO) project for a period of 25 years.

(DailyNews)

(This story, originally published by DailyNews has not been edited by SLM staff)

News

SJB appoints committee for talks on working together with UNP

Published

10 hours ago

January 16, 2025

editor

The Working Committee of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) has approved a proposal for discussions to work together with the United National Party (UNP).

Accordingly, a five-member committee, headed by SJB General Secretary – Ranjith Madduma Bandara, has been appointed for the discussions.