Nobuhito Hobo, Ambassador of Japan hosted the reception at his residence for the Fellows prior to their departure for Japan on 15th August 2014 and to senior government officials in recognition of their support extended for the successful implementation of the JDS program in Sri Lanka. The Ambassador remarked that the Government of Japan provides JDS Fellows with a unique opportunity to gain the knowledge and experiences in fields of study currently in high demand in Sri Lanka and crucial sphere heading sustainable development in the country. He further emphasized that it is important for the Fellows to make the best use of this opportunity not only to ful fil their research/academic tasks, but also to explore Japan and its culture. On behalf of the Government of Japan, heal so expects that upon the completion of their Master’s programs, the Fellows would positively contribute to the current development drive of Sri Lanka.(KH)