Department of Archaeology of the University of Kelaniya, and the Department of Archaeology and History of the La Trobe University, Australia look forward to working together to enhance the Archaeological research in Polonnaruwa to a greater extent.

Therefore, the initial discussion was held with Senior Prof. Nilanthi de Silva, Vice Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya, Dr. Keir Strickland, La Trobe University Australia, and Prof. Robin Coningham, UNESCO Chair on Archaeological Ethics and Practice in Cultural Heritage, Durham University, UK. The discussion was held at the Vice Chancellors’ Office on the 12^th of October 2023.

In this Discussion, the steps have been taken to initiate a three-year Archaeological and Anthropological research project in Polonnaruwa, and Season one will begin in January 2024. The MOU which is relevant to the project will be signed in January 2024.

Prof. M. M. Gunatilake, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Dr. Sriyani Hathurusinghe, Head of the Department of Archaeology, Cadre Chair and Senior. Prof. Prishanta Gunawardhana, Department of Archaeology, Prof. A. G. Amarasinghe, Director of the Research Centre for Social Sciences, Senior Prof. Gamini Adikari, Director of the Postgraduate Institute of Archaeology, Senior Lecturer Dr. Chandima Bogahawatta, Department of Archaeology, Senior Lecturer Mr. Harendralal Namalgamuwa, Department of Archaeology, Dr. Chris Davis, Durham University UK, Ms. Disha Ahluwalia, Baroda University, India, were also on this occasion.