As we commemorate the 106th Latvian National Day, the RIGA TU Information & Study Centre in Sri Lanka, in collaboration with Grand Royal Education, extends our heartfelt greetings and congratulations to the people of Latvia on this momentous occasion. The RIGA TU Information & Study Center has recently celebrated the 106th Latvian Independence Day at its premises in Nugegoda. The event marked a significant milestone in the growing partnership between Latvia and Sri Lanka, particularly in the field of education.

The celebration was graced by Dr. Manil Fernando, the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Latvia in Sri Lanka, along with Prof. Padmalal, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura; Mr. AmithJayasundara, Commissioner General of Examinations; Mr. ThanujaMeegahawatta, Assistant Director Europe & North America - Ministry of Foreign Affairs Sri Lanka; prominent professors in education; consultants and doctors from the medical field; hospital directors; professionals in trade and finance; and business leaders. Students and parents also participated, making the event vibrant with Latvian dance performances and cuisine.

Dr. Lasantha Amarakoon, Director of the RIGA TU Information & Study Centre and Chairman of REC Campus, emphasised that the celebration was not only a tribute to Latvia’s rich history, culture, and independence, but also a reflection of the friendship and strong ties between Latvia and Sri Lanka. For over a decade, the RIGA TU Information & Study Centre has been helping Sri Lankan students pursue higher education in Latvia, working closely with renowned Latvian universities, including Riga Technical University (RTU).

To date, more than 700 Sri Lankan students have studied in Latvia, benefiting from its highquality education, cultural diversity, and affordable living costs. One of the key initiatives of the centre is its Latvian Language Sessions, offered free of charge to Sri Lankan students to help them better integrate into Latvian society and enhance their academic experience. Under the leadership of Dr. Lasantha Amarakoon, the center has fostered strong cultural and academic ties between the two nations. The center also introduced a successful First Semester Program, allowing Sri Lankan students to complete their first semester in Sri Lanka before travelling to Latvia to continue their studies.

This initiative has helped many students make a smooth transition to life in Latvia. The Latvian government's continued support, along with that of Latvian universities, has been crucial in ensuring that Sri Lankan students receive comprehensive guidance, from application to graduation, making Latvia an increasingly popular destination for higher education. On this special occasion, the RIGA TU Information & Study Centre expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people of Latvia, Latvian universities, and the government for their unwavering support. Looking ahead, the centre remains committed to expanding opportunities for Sri Lankan students in Latvia, strengthening the educational and cultural ties between the two countries.