On 20^th May 2025, the University of Moratuwa (UoM) hosted two distinguished delegates from the University of Waterloo, Canada – Dr. Ishari Waduwara-Jayabahu, International Relations Manager and Prof. N. Asokan, Professor, David R. Cheriton Chair in Software Systems.

The visiting delegates were warmly welcomed by the representatives of the University of Moratuwa, including Prof. Dinesh Samarasinghe (Dean, Faculty of Business), Dr. Senaka Pilapitiya (Dean, Faculty of Medicine), Dr. G.V.I. Samaradivakara (Director, International Relations), and Ms. Y. S. Karunarathne (Assistant Registrar, External Affairs, Publicity and International Student Promotion Division).

The primary objective of the visit was to explore potential areas for collaboration between the University of Moratuwa and the University of Waterloo. The parties acknowledged the University of Waterloo as the Canadian counterpart to UoM, with a view to establishing long-term partnerships based on mutual academic strengths and shared research priorities.

A wide range of collaborative initiatives were discussed during the meeting. These included:

• Collaborative research focusing on medical innovations and integrated medicine such as combining indigenous (Ayurvedic) practices with Western medical technology
• Joint academic programmes, research, and curriculum development (E.g. business analytics)
• Support for developing professorial units in Faculty of Medicine of the University of Moratuwa
• Co-supervision of undergraduate and postgraduate research, student exchange programmes, and credit transfer arrangements.
• Hosting collaborative conferences and launching multidisciplinary research projects (E.g. Business Research Conference, University of Moratuwa)
• Exploration of funding and scholarship programmes opportunities available through the University of Waterloo and the Government of Canada for joint initiatives.
• Support for University of Moratuwa Initiatives to foster innovation and start-up culture among students and researchers.

At the discussion it was reported that students from the University of Moratuwa applying to the University of Waterloo may be exempted from IELTS requirements, provided the respective supervisors at Waterloo are satisfied with the applicants’ English proficiency.

Furthermore, the University of Moratuwa agreed to send detailed proposals outlining concrete plans for collaboration. The University of Waterloo expressed its willingness to connect relevant faculties and provide necessary support to take these initiatives forward. All parties agreed to conduct further meetings, preferably online, to maintain momentum and ensure progress. It was also agreed to sign a Memorandum of Understanding once the areas of collaborations are finalized

The discussions reflected a shared vision of advancing education, research, and innovation through global collaboration.