New Delhi: Harini Amarasuriya, Sri Lanka's newly appointed prime minister, has a special connection to India, having spent her college years at Delhi University. The 54-year-old academic-turned-politician took office as the 16th Prime Minister of Sri Lanka on Tuesday.
Amarasuriya studied at the esteemed Hindu College from 1991 to 1994, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in Sociology. She is also the first woman to serve as prime minister since Sirimavo Bandaranaike held the position in 2000.
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Hindu College Principal Anju Srivastava expressed pride in Amarasuriya's achievements, highlighting her connection to the institution. "It's an honour to know that a Hinduite has become the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka. Harini was a student of Sociology from 1991 to 1994, and we are extremely proud of her accomplishments. I hope her time at Hindu played a part in shaping her path to success,” Srivastava said.
She added, "Hindu College has a long tradition of student government, and we elect a prime minister and a leader of opposition every year. Harini's appointment is another milestone in our college's storied history.”
Nalin Rajan Singh, a former classmate and now a Bollywood director, reminisced about their time together as students. “I vaguely remember her, but I know she was very involved in college festivals and debates. It was the 90s, and a lot of us -- people like Imtiaz Ali and Arnab Goswami -- were starting to make our mark. To see her become prime minister is amazing.”
Singh, who was president of the Hindu College students' hostel at the time, believes Amarasuriya's leadership will further strengthen the relationship between India and Sri Lanka. He mentioned that the college's alumni network, known for its strong connections, would be eager to invite her to future gatherings.
Amarasuriya was sworn in by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who also appointed a cabinet of four members, including himself. In her new role, she will oversee several important portfolios, including Justice, Education, Labour, Industries, Science and Technology, Health, and Investment.
PTI
Published: 25 Sept 2024, 12:38 pm IST
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