University of Leicester student honoured by Sri Lankan High Commission invitation
High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to the UK, Nimal Senadheera, with Menaka Madushani, right.
A University of Leicester student has spoken of her pride after being invited to meet One of Sri Lanka’s most senior diplomats.
Menaka Madushani, a PhD researcher in the School of Business, met the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to the UK, Nimal Senadheera, at a ceremony held in London to mark 78 years of Sri Lankan independence.
Joining Menaka at the event, held on Wednesday 4 February, was the University’s Vice-Chancellor, and fellow Sri Lankan, Professor Sir Nishan Canagarajah
The ceremony brought together representatives of the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, the UK Government, the Commonwealth and members of the Sri Lankan community, reflecting the enduring bonds between Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom and underscoring the significance of this annual celebration of independence.
Menaka said: “I felt a deep sense of gratitude and pride at the event, not only as a Sri Lankan, but also as an academic continuing my journey at the University of Leicester.
“During a networking session, I had the opportunity to share my own journey from Sri Lanka to Leicester, and reflect on how the University has become my academic home. I have become enriched by its multicultural and diverse environment, which always reminds me of the transformative power of education and opportunity.
Menaka added: “It was inspiring to witness how our two nations remain connected through education, diplomacy, business and community ties. I was particularly inspired by hearing about charities working to widen access to higher education for school children in rural areas in Sri Lanka. Their dedication reinforced my belief in education as a vehicle for social mobility and change.
“This event was more than a celebration of independence. It was a celebration of possibility. It reminded me why I am passionate about education, global collaboration, and contributing as a citizen of change across borders.”
Professor Sir Canagarajah said: “We were honoured and humbled to have been given so much time by the High Commissioner during an occasion when we celebrated our heritage and connections with Sri Lanka. It was hugely empowering for both Menaka and I, and I look forward to further discussions with the High Commission as we strengthen our education links and seek to forge new ties between Leicester and Sri Lanka. It also provides me with a tremendous opportunity to give back to my former homeland and ensure that transformative educational opportunities are available for new generations of students.”
The London engagement followed the Deputy High Commissioner Manorie Mallikaratchy’s visit to the University of Leicester in September 2023, where potential partnerships with universities and Sri Lankan organisations were discussed.
Professor Sir Canagarajah is also planning a trip to his homeland later this year to continue partnership discussions and meet members of the University’s Sri Lankan alumni chapter.