(LANKAPUVATH | COLOMBO) – Saudi Arabia has consistently positioned itself at the forefront of promoting global peace, harmony, and tolerance. These principles form the foundation of the Kingdom’s vision, which is evident through its consistent organization of conferences and events both within the country and abroad. This commitment has earned global recognition and appreciation.
Al-Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University in Riyadh exemplifies these values. Welcoming students from across the globe, the university serves as a model for fostering peace, harmony, and tolerance. It frequently hosts conferences and events aimed at cultivating these ideals among its diverse student body.
This year, the university will hold a significant event on November 26 and 27, under the theme “Peace, Harmony, and Tolerance.” The event is particularly notable as it brings together international students from over 118 countries. This diverse participation offers a unique platform for students to engage with the customs and traditions of various cultures. The event aims to amplify Saudi Arabia’s message of peace and harmony through the perspectives of its international students.
On the occasion of International Students’ Day, universities across Saudi Arabia traditionally host exhibitions showcasing the cultural heritage of their respective international students. These exhibitions include traditional costumes, culinary traditions, and documentaries about their home countries. This year, Al-Imam University’s event, held under the patronage of its Vice-Chancellor and the Head of Student Affairs, has garnered widespread attention.
The events, scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, November 26 and 27 (corresponding to Jamada al-Awwal 24 and 25, 1446 AH), are themed “International Students’ Day for Tolerance.” The primary aim is to promote peace, cultural diversity, and mutual respect while fostering social cohesion and peaceful coexistence among people from different ideologies and backgrounds.
As part of this year’s exhibition, Sri Lankan students at Al-Imam University, in collaboration with the Sri Lankan Embassy in Saudi Arabia, are staging performances and exhibits highlighting their country’s rich cultural heritage and commitment to religious harmony. These displays include traditional cultural scenes, showcasing Sri Lanka’s unique customs, traditional attire, and cuisine.
A section of the exhibit is dedicated to promoting Sri Lanka as a premier tourist destination, emphasizing its natural beauty, green beaches, lush forests, and vibrant agricultural landscapes. Videos featuring Sri Lanka’s renowned tourist attractions aim to attract Middle Eastern visitors, particularly Saudi Arabians, whose tourism significantly contributes to the country’s economy.
Additionally, Sri Lankan students are showcasing the country’s export products, such as coconut-based items and premium tea, underscoring their country’s economic strengths. Their patriotism and dedication to representing Sri Lanka on a global stage have been widely praised.
Saudi Arabia has long been recognized for its generosity in providing free education to thousands of foreign students. The Kingdom offers comprehensive scholarships that include free tuition, round-trip air tickets, monthly living allowances, accommodation, free medical care, and support through graduation. This unparalleled support has enabled countless students worldwide to pursue higher education, including many from Sri Lanka.
Currently, approximately 20 Sri Lankan students are enrolled at Al-Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University, with numerous alumni having successfully completed their studies. These opportunities reflect Saudi Arabia’s unwavering commitment to fostering global education and cultural exchange.
On behalf of all Sri Lankan students, the Sri Lanka Students’ Union at Al-Imam University extends heartfelt gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor, the organizing committee, and the Sri Lankan Ambassador and embassy officials. Their efforts in arranging exhibitions that celebrate Sri Lanka’s art, culture, and religious harmony contribute significantly to the university’s vision of promoting tolerance and coexistence.
Sri Lanka Students’ Union
Al-Imam Muhammad bin Saud Islamic University,
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
