The memorandum of understanding was signed by Ambassador István Szabó on the Hungarian side and K.M.G.S. Nalaka Kaluwewe, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Training, on the Sri Lankan side. During the signing ceremony, the State Secretary emphasized the importance of the scholarships provided by Hungary and highlighted the significance of the memorandum of understanding first concluded in 2022 in developing a skilled workforce to serve Sri Lanka's socio-economic growth.
Under the 2025-2027 cooperation agreement, Hungary will continue to provide 20 full scholarships per year to Sri Lankan students for undergraduate, master's and doctoral studies. The next application cycle for Stipendium Hungaricum opens in mid-November 2025. The scholarships cover tuition fees and provide support for accommodation and living expenses, enabling students to participate in courses at Hungarian universities.
Since 2022, 40 Sri Lankan students have participated in the scholarship program, gaining valuable experience in Hungary's higher education and research environment. The Stipendium Hungaricum program is operated by the Tempus Public Foundation on behalf of the Hungarian government. The Sri Lankan Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Training oversees the national selection and nomination process for eligible candidates.
The renewal of the agreement reaffirms the shared commitment of Sri Lanka and Hungary to promoting academic cooperation, knowledge exchange and mutual understanding between the countries.