Sri Lanka has witnessed a historic moment with the swearing-in of Harini Amarasuriya as its new Prime Minister. This appointment marks a significant milestone, as Amarasuriya becomes the first woman to hold the office since Sirimavo Bandaranaike in 2000. The new President, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, announced the appointment on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Amarasuriya’s journey to the top is marked by her impressive academic background, with deep ties to India. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Delhi University’s prestigious Hindu College between 1991 and 1994. Her alma mater expressed immense pride in her achievement, highlighting her contributions as a student leader. The Principal of Hindu College, Anju Srivastava, remarked on Amarasuriya’s academic excellence and her time as a sociology student, emphasizing the college’s long tradition of student governance.
Beyond her Indian education, Amarasuriya holds a doctorate in social anthropology from the University of Edinburgh, further solidifying her credentials as a scholar. She also possesses a Master’s degree in Applied Anthropology & Development Studies. Her academic achievements showcase her dedication to understanding societal dynamics and her commitment to research and development.
In her new role, Amarasuriya has been entrusted with the responsibility of five key departments: Justice, Public Administration, Provisional Councils, Local Government and Labour; Education, Science and Technology; Woman, Child and Youth Affairs and Sports; Trade, Commercial, Food Security, Cooperative Development, Industry and Entrepreneur Development; and Health. This extensive portfolio highlights her commitment to addressing a wide range of critical issues facing Sri Lanka.
Amarasuriya’s appointment as Sri Lanka’s first female Prime Minister in over two decades signifies a significant shift towards greater inclusivity in the country’s political landscape. Her background and academic prowess undoubtedly contribute to a fresh perspective on governance, promising a new chapter for Sri Lanka’s future.
