The Institute of Development Studies (IDS) welcomed the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Dr Harini Amarasuriya, yesterday to celebrate the institute’s 60th anniversary.
The visit highlights Brighton’s historic reputation as an international centre for development research, higher education and global policy discussions. Together with the University of Sussex, IDS has been ranked first in the world for Development Studies in the QS World University Rankings for ten consecutive years.
The Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya joined students, researchers, and members of the local community for a conversation reflecting on her journey from academia and being an activist to becoming Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister in 2024. Before entering politics, Dr Amarasuriya spent a decade as a Senior Lecturer in Sociology at the Open University of Sri Lanka and worked on issues including human rights, youth wellbeing and gender equality.
Dr Harini Amarasuriya, Prime Minister of Sri Lanka said:
“I’m really honoured to be here to kickstart the IDS celebration of 60 years. The links between IDS and Sri Lanka are long and enduring, starting in 1971.
“We have many activists and researchers from IDS who have been working closely with us in the government. Congratulations to IDS on completing 60 years, and I really hope that this very fruitful collaboration between IDS and Sri Lanka continues to flourish.”
The Prime Minister also highlighted Sri Lanka’s recovery following recent economic challenges and the importance of international partnerships in addressing global issues.
Professor Anuradha Joshi, Director at the Institute of Development Studies said:
“We are incredibly proud to welcome Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya to IDS as part of our 60th anniversary celebrations. Hosting a world leader here at IDS reflects our global reputation and partnerships and shows the important role Brighton-based institutions can play in bringing global conversations and international voices to the city.
“At IDS, we have been working on the importance of better engaging people with democratic systems and Sri Lanka offers a positive story about democratic renewal that brings valuable lessons for other countries. It is especially exciting for our students, researchers and local community to hear directly from a leader whose journey spans academia, activism and public service.”
Watch the IDS 60th Anniversary video
Founded in 1966 and headquartered in Brighton, IDS works with governments, civil society, universities and organisations around the world on issues including poverty, inequality, climate change and global development. In the last 60 years, more than 5,000 people from around the world have studied at IDS and many alumni have become leaders and change makers. They include Carlos Alvarado Quesada, who as president of Costa Rica influenced global efforts to tackle climate change and protect human rights, and Isatou Touray, a renowned campaigner against female genital mutilation who became vice president of The Gambia.
IDS is an independent research and teaching institute located on the campus of the University of Sussex, with a close affiliation with the University.
