In a momentous occasion, His Excellency Khalid bin Hamoud Alkahtani, the esteemed Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Sri Lanka, graced the inauguration ceremony of the SLIIT International Conference on Advancements in Sciences and Humanities and the National Educators Awards Programme, 2023, in Colombo. The Ambassador, attending as the chief guest, delivered a poignant speech, expressing gratitude for the invitation and commending the outstanding achievements of educators at the event.
During his address, His Excellency underscored the significance of the day, highlighting it as a celebration of years of unwavering commitment, dedication, and scholarly pursuit. He extended heartfelt congratulations to the recipients of the 2023 National Educators Awards, emphasizing his wish for their future to be adorned with continued success and joy. The Ambassador’s words resonated with a sense of appreciation for the exceptional educators whose steadfast commitment has not only positively impacted students but also contributed to the betterment of the broader community. He recognized the pivotal role educators play in shaping minds and nurturing talent, making special mention of their influence in fostering a positive societal change.
Encouraging the award winners to extend their expertise beyond their specific fields of study, His Excellency urged them to become advocates for diverse disciplines. He emphasized the importance of utilizing their skills as bridges to connect different fields, fostering collaboration, and addressing the societal challenges faced by everyone. This call to broaden horizons reflects the Ambassador’s vision of educators as catalysts for holistic development, capable of transcending disciplinary boundaries for the greater good. Furthermore, His Excellency Alkahtani acknowledged and praised the concerted efforts of universities and educational institutes in the Republic of Sri Lanka. He highlighted their pivotal role in advancing the educational landscape of the country by promoting widespread participation in quality education and facilitating continuous professional development across various specializations.
In the spirit of fostering stronger ties between the Republic of Sri Lanka and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Ambassador underscored the importance of enhancing educational cooperation. He specifically emphasized the need for collaboration between universities and educational institutions in both friendly nations. His Excellency proposed the idea of organizing educational events that not only strengthen existing friendly relations but also contribute to mutual growth in various fields. In his address, the Ambassador emphasized the role of education as a cornerstone for diplomatic and cultural relations between nations. Recognizing the transformative power of knowledge, he expressed confidence in educational exchanges serving as a bridge to deepen understanding and appreciation between the people of Saudi Arabia and Sri Lanka.
As a representative of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, His Excellency Khalid bin Hamoud Alkahtani conveyed a message of friendship, cooperation, and shared aspirations. He highlighted the potential for joint efforts in the educational realm to contribute significantly to the broader spectrum of bilateral relations.
In conclusion, the presence of His Excellency at the SLIIT International Conference marked not only a diplomatic gesture but also a testament to the shared commitment of Saudi Arabia and Sri Lanka in promoting excellence in education. The Ambassador’s words resonated as a call to action for educators to continue their pivotal role in shaping the future and fostering collaboration between nations, ultimately contributing to the betterment of societies on a global scale.
