KANDY – The Fourth International Conference of the Association for the Study of Australasia in Asia (ASAA) was held in Kandy last week-end.

Several intellectuals among whom were writers from the Asian Region and Australia and New Zealand were present. The venue was Swisse Hotel, Kandy.

The conference held sessions for four days under the Chairmanship of Dr. Ms. Cynthia Vanden Driesan, Edith Cowan University, Australia, after it was ceremonially opened by Chief Guest, Governor, Central Province Tikiri Kobbekaduwa in association with educationists incluing Vice Chancellor of the University of Peradeniya Professor Harischandra Abeygunawardena and Professor Ashley Halpe.

Speaking at the inaugural Sessions, Governor Tikiri Kobbekaduwa congratulated the organizers of the forum held in the historic kingdom of Kandy, which had continued to be an important visiting place for many foreigners from different parts of the world.

Papers on research findings and current issues were presented and observations recorded.

The latest books authored by eminent writers from the ASAA were introduced followed by criticism.

Diaspora: The Australasian Experience edited by Cynthia Vanden Driesen and Ralph Crane was one of the latest publications to be introduced.

The presence of Pampila Hanson boxer a descendent of the aborigines of Australia was a special attraction at conference. Pampila kept the conference alive with his musical presentations. Pampila Hanson Boxer has gained fame as an illustrious musician, Dr. Cynthia Vander Driesen, President, ASAA said.