Deputy High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in Chennai, Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, attended the 14th Annual Convocation of the Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Chennai, as a Special Guest on 16 August 2026.

The Convocation was presided over by Founder and Chancellor of VIT, Dr. G. Viswanathan. Former Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, Dr. T. Ramasami, attended as the Chief Guest, while Chief Operating Officer (Publishing) and Board Member of Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd., Mohit Jain, attended as the Guest of Honour. Senior officials, faculty members, graduates and their families were also present.

Addressing the gathering, the Deputy High Commissioner reflected on the close, longstanding and multifaceted relationship between Sri Lanka and India. He noted that, although the two countries are separated by a narrow stretch of water, they have been connected for thousands of years through shared history, civilisation, culture, religion, language, trade and enduring people-to-people ties.

He highlighted that the relationship between Sri Lanka and India is rooted in deep historical and cultural connections and has evolved into a modern partnership encompassing political engagement, economic cooperation, trade and investment, connectivity, education, tourism, technology and people-to-people exchanges.

The Deputy High Commissioner also emphasised the particularly close relationship between Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka, noting the depth of their historical, cultural and human connections. He highlighted that geographical proximity has contributed to centuries of interaction and exchange, creating strong bonds that continue to serve as an important foundation for mutual understanding and cooperation.

Referring to the importance of people-to-people relations, he highlighted the role of education, cultural exchanges and youth engagement in strengthening the partnership between the two countries. He encouraged the graduating students to recognise the importance of international cooperation, mutual understanding and knowledge-sharing in addressing the challenges and opportunities of an increasingly interconnected world.

The Deputy High Commissioner further noted the significant potential for enhanced cooperation between Sri Lanka and India in trade and investment, tourism, education, technology, innovation, connectivity and sustainable development. He underscored the importance of continued engagement and collaboration in further strengthening the longstanding partnership between the two neighbouring countries.

Congratulating the graduates, Dr. Geathiswaran encouraged them to pursue their future careers with confidence and a commitment to contributing positively to society.

The ceremony marked an important milestone for 4518 graduates from undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD programmes, who received their degrees and embarked on the next chapter of their academic and professional journeys.

Deputy High Commission of Sri Lanka
Chennai

28 August 2026