Ven. Dr. Kirinde Assaji Thero Honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award in UK 🏆

Canterbury Christ Church University has conferred its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Honour Award upon Most Ven. Dr. Kirinde Assaji Thero, Chief Incumbent of the Gangaramaya Temple, recognizing his global spiritual leadership and community service. • Core Recognition The award celebrates decades of work in interfaith harmony, education, and community development. Key highlights include his efforts in empowering rural communities, women, and children, alongside advancing sustainable development initiatives. • Economic & Cultural Impact The event, attended by Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to the UK and the Chairman of the Tourism and Cultural Task Force, signaled a strengthening of bilateral ties. Discussions focused on: Higher Education: Opportunities for academic exchange and institutional partnerships. Tourism & Heritage: Promoting cultural collaboration and "people-to-people" connections between Sri Lanka and the UK. Agriculture: Recognition of the Thero’s ongoing work in agricultural sustainability and environmental awareness. • Strategic Significance Beyond the spiritual accolade, the visit aimed at fostering deeper cooperation in sustainable development and vocational empowerment, bridging Sri Lankan traditions with modern global academic frameworks. • Official Representation The ceremony was officiated by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Rama Thirunamachandran, marking a milestone for Sri Lankan cultural diplomacy on the international stage.