Sri Lankan Prime Minister Returns to Hindu College: A Distinguished Alumna's Historic Homecoming

Harini Amarasuriya, positioned centrally in the image, pursued sociology studies at the esteemed Hindu College.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya made a significant return to her alma mater in India on Thursday, visiting Delhi University's renowned Hindu College. This homecoming represents a momentous occasion celebrating her personal journey while enhancing diplomatic relations between India and Sri Lanka.

Her comprehensive day-long visit encompasses formal ceremonies, cultural performances, and meaningful interactions, highlighting the profound connection shared between these neighboring nations.

The Sri Lankan Prime Minister is scheduled to participate in the NDTV World Summit in India's capital the following day.

'Once a Devoted Scholar at Hindu's Library'

Consider this scenario: as a young sociology student at Hindu College, you navigate its historic hallways, engage in intellectual discussions in Classroom 27, and embrace the vibrant atmosphere of North Campus.

Three decades later, you return not merely as a graduate but as Sri Lanka's Prime Minister. This remarkable trajectory belongs to Harini Amarasuriya.

For Amarasuriya, this visit transcends diplomatic protocol—it's a reunion with the educational foundation that shaped her identity. For the academic community, it's an opportunity to celebrate an alumna who exemplifies how education can transform individuals and nations.

During her college years, she earned a reputation for academic excellence, frequently spending time in the library immersed in scholarly pursuits and intellectual debates.

Principal Anju Srivastava reminisced, "She was approachable, humble, and deeply committed to academic excellence."

"Her passion for societal understanding and potential for creating positive change was evident even then," Srivastava noted.

Visit Itinerary to Former Educational Institution

Amarasuriya's comprehensive visit commenced with a Guard of Honour ceremony conducted by 16 National Cadet Corps members, followed by a symbolic tree planting on the college's main lawn. Students will showcase cultural performances at the Sanganeria Auditorium to honor the distinguished alumna.

The Prime Minister will tour the perfumery lab's skill training facility and the library's e-knowledge center, acknowledging her former affinity for this academic space.

Amarasuriya will also revisit Classroom 27 to reconnect with her student memories. Additionally, the college has proposed establishing a Socio-Ethnographic Laboratory named in her honor.

Hindu College has initiated discussions regarding research collaborations and industry-driven partnerships with Sri Lankan institutions, including potential exchange programs for students and faculty.

The student community exhibits palpable enthusiasm about the visit.

"It's extraordinary to think someone who studied in these same classrooms has become a prime minister. It inspires confidence that education can lead to positions of significant influence. We need more female leaders globally. I'm eager to inquire about her transition from academia to politics and the challenges encountered during this journey," expressed a third-year sociology student.