In a vibrant celebration of seven decades of diplomatic ties, the German Embassy in Colombo hosted a Festival of Friendship on Saturday, 2 December 2023 from 3 – 9 pm at Galle Face Green, attracting a diverse crowd eager to partake in the cultural extravaganza and witness the strengthening of academic connections. The festival created an immersive experience for attendees of all ages through stalls dedicated for the five partner organizations of the German Embassy in Colombo, viz. DAAD Sri Lanka, Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka, Goethe-Institut Sri Lanka, Friedrich Naumann Foundation Sri Lanka and GIZ Sri Lanka and stalls of many other sponsors.

The festival grounds buzzed with energy with music and dance performances, interactive stalls of partner organisations and sponsors, gastronomic fusion stalls and fun activities for children. Attendees immersed themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of both Sri Lanka and Germany, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation.

Adding an educational flair to the celebration, DAAD Sri Lanka, the German Academic Exchange Service was present in this festival, reinforcing the commitment to academic exchange. The DAAD booth served as an information hub, attracting students, scholars and educators interested in exploring opportunities for study programs, scholarships, and research initiatives between Sri Lanka and Germany.

DAAD Research Ambassador Dr Ishanka Karunarathne also presented some facts about studying and researching in Germany while sharing her own experience. Students from University of Colombo who participated in an exchange student programme in Dresden University of Technology and University of Giessen were present at the DAAD Sri Lanka stall, engaging in pleasant conversation and sharing their experience with the public.