Promoting Social Reconciliation and Intercultural Dialogue in Sri Lankan Universities: The Role of Social Reconciliation Centres (SRCs)

Abstract

This study examines the establishment of Social Reconciliation Centres (SRCs) and their role in promoting social reconciliation and intercultural dialogue in Sri Lankan universities. The study explores the significance of the SRCs in fostering intercultural understanding and social cohesion among the diverse university community and their contribution towards bridging divides, preventing conflicts, and upholding human rights standards. The study also highlights the Asia-Pacific Regional Launch of the UNESCO Framework for Enabling Intercultural Dialogue, which brought together policymakers, academics, and youth representatives to collectively commit to fostering intercultural understanding and social cohesion in Sri Lanka. The joint proposal outlined three key outcomes and their corresponding activities, which aimed to enhance dialogue, social cohesion, and reconciliation among university students in Sri Lanka. The study concludes by discussing the importance of promoting social reconciliation and intercultural dialogue within Sri Lankan universities and the role of SRCs in achieving this goal