At a virtual ceremony on November 26, 2025, U.S. Ambassador Julie Chung addressed the latest group of Peace Corps Volunteers pledging service in Sri Lanka. The event marked another milestone in the ongoing partnership between the United States and Sri Lanka, as twenty-three new trainees committed to two years of work in local communities.
Ambassador Chung reflected on her time in Sri Lanka, highlighting the return of Peace Corps Volunteers to the country in 2023 after nearly twenty years. She said, "When I look back on my time as U.S. Ambassador, one of the moments I cherish most is welcoming Peace Corps Volunteers back to Sri Lanka in 2023, after nearly two decades. That ceremony was filled with optimism and gratitude. It reminded me that diplomacy is not only practiced in embassies or ministries — it is lived out in classrooms, homes, and communities. Seeing the program revived and thriving remains a highlight of my tenure here in Sri Lanka."
Since its start in 1962, almost six hundred Americans have served as Peace Corps Volunteers in Sri Lanka. Their work has contributed to education and cultural exchange between both countries.
Ambassador Chung thanked the Ministry of Education for its continued support: "To the Ministry of Education, and especially the English and Foreign Languages Branch, thank you for your steadfast partnership. You have ensured that English education in Sri Lanka remains not a gate of exclusion but a bridge of opportunity. By welcoming Volunteers into your schools, you reaffirm a shared conviction — that language can connect, empower, and open doors."
She emphasized that volunteers are not only teaching English but also learning local languages such as Sinhala and Tamil: "But just as importantly, you are learning too. By studying Sinhala and Tamil — with all the joys and challenges that come with new grammar and new sounds — you honor the communities you will serve."
The ambassador also recognized school principals and teachers for their role: "To the principals and teachers who will soon work alongside Volunteers: your openness makes this partnership real. You are modeling to your students what collaboration and curiosity look like in action."
Addressing those about to begin their service, she stated: "And to the twenty-three Trainees pledging your service today: this is your day! You have trained, studied, and prepared to live and work in Sri Lankan communities for the next two years...You will represent the United States — not as officials, but as small-'a' ambassadors of the American people."
Chung concluded by inviting trainees to take their pledge before officially joining what she described as “the global Peace Corps family.” She added: "On behalf of the United States Embassy and the American people, thank you for your courage, your compassion, and your commitment to serve alongside the people of Sri Lanka."
The ceremony underscored continued efforts by both nations to strengthen educational ties through volunteer service.