BA Honours in Japanese now offered at J’pura University

The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura has launched a new degree programme: the Bachelor of Arts Honours in Japanese

A ceremony was organised by the faculty this week, at the Sri Sumangala Auditorium of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, as part of the series of events to commemorate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Sri Lanka.

The ceremony was graced by the Guest of Honour Japanese Ambassador Mizukoshi Hideaki, University Grants Commission Chairman Sampath Amaratunge, University of Sri Jayewardenepura Vice- Chancellor Sudantha Liyanage and the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences Dean Shirantha Heenkenda.

An official from the Japanese embassy said in regard to understanding the necessity of broadening the horizons of learning opportunities of undergraduates, the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences reached another significant milestone by launching the degree programme.

“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 specialise in a language that bridges two nations together and brings new possibilities, is considered an important step to further strengthen the mutual understanding between the two countries,” the embassy official said.

Prof. Heenkenda pointed out the new prospects of moulding future flag bearers who will steer the course of the journey towards a stronger friendship in the years to come, through this degree. He also appreciated the resolute support given by the Japanese embassy for the success of this brand new endeavour of the faculty.

Prof. Liyanage, made it a point to reminisce the historical speech delivered by former Sri Lankan president J.R. Jayewardene, whose words resonate in the hearts of Sri Lankan and Japanese alike even today.

Ambassador Hideaki, in his speech, lauded the efforts made by the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Education Minister Dinesh Gunawardena and Foreign Minister Peiris, to make this project a reality.