Educational Background
Harini Amarasuriya is a proud graduate of Hindu College in Sri Lanka, where she developed her foundational skills and values that have shaped her career.
Rise to Political Prominence
After completing her education, Amarasuriya quickly made a name for herself in the political landscape of Sri Lanka, showcasing her commitment to public service.
New Role as Prime Minister
Recently, she was appointed as the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, marking a significant milestone in her political journey and a momentous occasion for her alma mater.
Vision for the Future
As the new Prime Minister, Harini Amarasuriya aims to implement progressive policies that address the needs of the nation and inspire future generations of leaders.
Educational Background
Harini Amarasuriya, an alumna of Hindu College in Sri Lanka, has built a strong foundation in her academic pursuits, which has contributed to her political career.
New Role as Prime Minister
Recently appointed as the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Amarasuriya brings a fresh perspective to the country’s leadership amid challenging times.
Commitment to Change
With a focus on reform and progress, Amarasuriya aims to address key issues facing the nation, prioritizing the needs of the people and promoting inclusive governance.
Impact on Sri Lankan Politics
As a prominent figure in Sri Lankan politics, her leadership is expected to inspire a new generation of leaders and engage citizens in the democratic process.
On Tuesday, a 54-year-old university professor and first-time politician who used to stroll the lawns and sit on the dusty benches of Hindu College in Delhi was appointed as Sri Lanka’s 16th prime minister, making her one of the esteemed institution’s tallest alums.
Anura Kumar Dissanayake, the new president of the island nation, gave the oath of office to Harini Amarasuriya, a leader of the National People’s Power (NPP), in the capital city of Colombo. Harini Amarasuriya did her undergraduate studies in sociology at Hindu College.
She is the first head of state to come from Delhi University, a 125-year-old institution that has produced a number of actors, national cricket players, bureaucrats, political figures, and an ex-chief justice of .
Anju Srivastava, principal of Hindu College, referred to the occasion as a “proud milestone in the college’s storied history”.
The news that a Hinduite is now Sri Lanka’s prime minister fills us with joy. For the Hindu College family, this is a time of pride. She studied sociology at Hindu College from 1991 to 1994 and is a highly talented scholar and politician, the speaker remarked.
We hope that her stay at Hindu College served as a springboard for all of her accomplishments in the future. Her elevation to this prestigious position is a historic milestone in its illustrious history. Our college has a long tradition of a parliamentary system, when we elect a prime minister and leader of opposition each year, she remarked.
Amarasuriya is just Sri Lanka’s third female prime minister.
Early Life and Education
Harini Amarasuriya was born and raised in Colombo, where she laid the groundwork for her impressive academic journey. She obtained her PhD in social anthropology from the University of Edinburgh, followed by studies in applied anthropology in Australia after graduating from Hindu College.
Cultural Engagement at Hindu College
During her time at Hindu College, Amarasuriya was an active participant in various cultural events. Bollywood director Nalin Singh, a contemporary and former English student, recalls her as a dedicated member of the college community, stating that she remained friendly and engaged despite the language barrier.
Historic Political Achievement
Recently appointed as Prime Minister, Amarasuriya is the first female premier of Sri Lanka in nearly 25 years. She entered parliament in 2020 as a candidate from the National People’s Power (NPP) party. This historic achievement marks a significant milestone for her alma mater, as she is the first prime minister to emerge from the Hindu College alumni community, although there have been chief ministers before her.
Scholarly Contributions and Research Focus
In addition to her political career, Amarasuriya has authored books and conducted research on a range of important topics, including youth, politics, dissent, activism, gender, development, and child protection. Her work highlights her commitment to understanding and addressing key social issues in Sri Lanka.
