ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY OF PERADENIYA QUEENSLAND CHAPTER INC

Dear Alumni and Friends,

It is with great pleasure that I write to you on this momentous occasion of launching Alumni Association of University of Peradeniya Queensland Chapter Incorporated (AAUOPQC) as our beloved University of Peradeniya celebrates its 82nd anniversary. First and foremost, let me congratulate the new chapter of the Alumni Association and the Hanthana Night – 2024.

Over the past eight decades, the University of Peradeniya has produced nearly 200,000 successful graduates who are making significant contributions in various fields worldwide, and you are a testament to this esteemed group. Throughout the years, the university has grown immensely, achieving prestigious accolades, such as being ranked as the only Sri Lankan university selected by the US News & World Report in 2022 and securing the top position in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings for four consecutive years. Today, the university comprises nine faculties, four postgraduate institutions, and nearly twenty centers and units, educating over 14,000 undergraduates, 8,000 postgraduates, and 10,000 distant learners.

Among all alumni associations of the university, the Australian chapters of AAUP have played a pivotal role in supporting the university in numerous ways. Recently, they assisted in recruiting professional counselors for the newly established Center for Psychological Support Unit (CaPSU). This center, set up in the aftermath of the global pandemic and economic crisis, has significantly improved the psychological well-being of the university community, saving many lives.

In just 18 years, the university will celebrate its centenary. Under the visionary leadership of the immediate past Vice-Chancellor and the governing council, we have developed a comprehensive roadmap known as the ‘Centenary Development Plan.’ This plan includes initiatives such as establishing a solar power generation system sufficient to powerup the entire university, setting up an international branch campus, developing a multi-residential and commercial complex, modernizing sports facilities, upgrading the health center, uplifting the existing WUS premises, enhancing student cafeterias and setting up multidisciplinary research service laboratories.
As you come together, you may reminisce about the cherished memories of our beloved alma mater, which has provided not only an education but also values that have guided you throughout your lives and careers. I am confident that the UOPAAQC will mark a new chapter in your journey—a journey of camaraderie, collaboration, and continued growth. I hope it serves as a platform to reconnect with old friends, forge new friendships, and strengthen our bonds with the university.

Through this association, you have the opportunity to give back to our university—mentoring the next generation of students, supporting academic initiatives, and contributing to the development of our alma mater as it approaches its centenary in 2042. Together, we can make a difference and leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.

I once again congratulate the newly established chapter and extend my heartfelt thanks to all who have worked tirelessly to make this possible. Your dedication and commitment are truly commendable.

Warmest regards,
Professor Terrence Madhujith
Vice-Chancellor