Sri Lanka Agonshu Friendship Foundation to Host 33rd Scholarship Award Ceremony
Sri Lanka is set to witness the 33rd Scholarship Award Ceremony of the Sri Lanka Agonshu Friendship Foundation (SLAFF) this month. The event, scheduled for November 8, 2025, will take place at 2:00 pm at the Nagananda International Buddhist Centre in Manelwatte Kelaniya. This annual ceremony serves as a significant platform for recognizing and supporting talented students from low-income families across the country.
The programme will be presided over by the Chief Incumbent of the Papiliyana Sunethradevi Pirivena Rajamaha Viharaya, Senior Prof. Ven. Medagoda Abhayatissa Thera. His participation underscores the deep connection between the foundation and the Buddhist community in Sri Lanka. The ceremony is not only an occasion for academic recognition but also a celebration of cultural and spiritual values that have long been integral to the foundation’s mission.
A Legacy of Education and Support
The Sri Lanka Agonshu Friendship Foundation was established on January 12, 1994, under the patronage and guidance of the founder of the Agonshu Nikaya in Japan and the Agonshu Scholarship Award Ceremony, the late Most Ven. Seiyu Kiriyama Nayake Thera. Since its inception, the foundation has played a vital role in promoting education among underprivileged communities.
To date, the foundation has awarded a total of 20,216 scholarships to students from low-income families. This remarkable achievement highlights the foundation’s commitment to fostering educational opportunities and empowering future generations. According to the Director General of the SLAFF, Somasiri Addara Pathiranage, 680 students will receive scholarships this year alone, continuing the tradition of support and encouragement.
Special Guests and Cultural Exchange
A special Japanese delegation, including Ven. Kanazawa Shoso Thera and Ven. Tanaka Hiroshi Thera, residents of the Agonshu temple in Japan, will join the ceremony. Their presence reflects the strong ties between Sri Lanka and Japan through the Agonshu Nikaya. This international collaboration not only enriches the cultural landscape of the event but also reinforces the shared values of compassion, education, and mutual respect.
In addition to the scholarship awards, the ceremony will feature a special lecture delivered by the Dean of the Department of Drama, Cinema and Television Studies at the University of Kelaniya, Senior Professor Patrick Ratnayake. This lecture is expected to provide valuable insights into the role of the arts in education and societal development.
Impact and Future Goals
The Sri Lanka Agonshu Friendship Foundation continues to make a meaningful impact on the lives of students and their families. By providing financial assistance and academic support, the foundation helps break the cycle of poverty and opens doors to brighter futures. Its efforts are aligned with broader goals of sustainable development and social equity.
As the foundation looks ahead, it remains committed to expanding its reach and deepening its partnerships with local and international stakeholders. The 33rd Scholarship Award Ceremony is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Agonshu Nikaya and the transformative power of education.
Conclusion
The upcoming ceremony is more than just an event; it is a symbol of hope, perseverance, and the belief that every student deserves the opportunity to succeed. With continued support and collaboration, the Sri Lanka Agonshu Friendship Foundation will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Sri Lankan society.