Education & HR

March 20, 2024

Emphasizing SLIIT’s commitment to scholarly excellence, it has achieved a historic milestone by being the only Sri Lankan educational institution shortlisted for the prestigious THE Awards Asia 2024, widely regarded as the ‘Oscars of Higher Education’ in Asia.

Originating in the UK and expanded to Asia in 2019, THE Awards Asia celebrates academic excellence and innovation in higher education across the Asian continent. This year’s edition attracted well over 600 entries from leading universities in Asia.

The university’s outstanding accomplishment lies in being the sole Sri Lankan university shortlisted for the Research Project of the Year in the Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences category. This recognition is attributed to the project titled ‘Elderly Population and Global Economies,’ Supervised by Prof. Ruwan Jayathilaka, and authored by undergraduate students Thaveesha Jayawardhana, Sachini Anuththara, Thamasha Nimnadi, and Ridhmi Karadanaarachchi from the SLIIT Business School, The research project produced three Q1 Scopus publications, achieving a rare and unprecedented recognition and showcasing SLIIT’s growing influence on the global academic stage.

Furthermore, SLIIT has secured a unique position as a Sri Lankan institution alongside renowned world-ranked universities such as Hong Kong Polytechnic and Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, thereby elevating its standing. Other prominent universities shortlisted across various categories include the National University of Singapore, Hiroshima University, and the University of Hong Kong, further highlighting the caliber of institutions SLIIT is competing against.

The foundation of this special achievement lies in the SLIIT Business School, which endeavours to nurture academic research and publications at the undergraduate level in top-ranked journals – an unparalleled activity, especially when compared to other national universities. Importantly, SLIIT’s entry for the THE Asia Awards has achieved a unique feat even globally, particularly in non-medical fields, by having undergraduate students publish three Scopus journal papers.

SLIIT Business School boasts 14 PhD holders and nine professors among its 32 tenured positions. With approximately half of the tenured faculty holding doctorates and extensive industry experience, the SLIIT Business School offers a robust full-time faculty compared to other universities that heavily rely on visiting faculty. The faculty composition also positions SLIIT Business School as a premier institution providing high-quality, research-driven education, further strengthening its reputation as a leading academic and research entity in the region.

The shortlisting of SLIIT for the THE Awards Asia 2024 is a testament to the university’s dedication to academic distinction and its growing impact on the global stage. As the university prepares to participate in this prestigious event, the significance of the achievement cannot be overstated, marking a critical moment in SLIIT’s academic journey.

March 20, 2024

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In a significant stride towards providing education and fostering the growth of caregivers, Certis Lanka unveiled its newest venture, the Identity College of Higher Education (ICHE), in a grand opening ceremony on the 12^th of March 2024.

With a solemn dedication to nurturing and empowering caregiver students, ICHE marks a pioneering initiative in Sri Lanka’s educational landscape. The inauguration ceremony, held with much fanfare and attended by esteemed guests and dignitaries, showcased the commitment of Certis Lanka to fostering academic excellence and addressing the evolving needs of the community.

Identity College of Higher Education, situated in Colombo, aims to revolutionize caregiver education by offering a comprehensive curriculum tailored to meet the diverse needs of students. The college will provide specialized courses, workshops, and hands-on training programs, equipping learners with practical skills and theoretical knowledge essential for success in caregiving professions.

Furthermore, ICHE’s state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, demonstration rooms, and study areas, enrich the learning environment. The college’s faculty comprises experienced educators and industry experts dedicated to imparting quality education and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.

As part of its inaugural offerings, ICHE will focus primarily on caregiver education, catering to individuals passionate about making a difference in the lives of others.

The launch of ICHE also marks a significant milestone for Certis Lanka, further solidifying its position as a leader in education and social responsibility. By establishing a platform dedicated to caregiver education, Certis Lanka reaffirms its commitment to contributing positively to society and empowering individuals to lead meaningful and fulfilling lives.

For more information about Identity College of Higher Education and its programs, interested individuals can visit the college’s website at www.iche.com.lk. Enrollments for the upcoming academic year are now open, offering prospective students the opportunity to embark on a transformative educational journey with ICHE.

With the unveiling of Identity College of Higher Education, Certis Lanka sets a new standard in caregiver education, ushering in a future where compassion, knowledge, and professionalism converge to create a brighter tomorrow for all.

March 20, 2024

ESOFT Metro Campus, Sri Lanka’s leading private higher education network, celebrated the launch and inauguration of two prestigious doctoral programmes at its premier Campus One branch at One Galle Face Business Tower on March 13th, 2024.

The ceremony marked the introduction of the first and only British PhD programme in Sri Lanka, delivered by Kingston University and the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) programme offered by Manipal GlobalNXT University in collaboration with ESOFT.

Dr. Dayan Rajapakse, Chairman/ Group Managing Director and founder of ESOFT; Professor Mukesh Limbachiya, Professor of Civil Engineering and Faculty Lead – Apprenticeship and Academic Partnerships at Kingston University; and Mr. Sanjiv Kumar, Head of Corporate Engagements and Partnerships of Manipal GlobalNxt University graced the event, including representatives and supervisors from both programmes.

The launch signifies ESOFT’s commitment to expanding access to high-quality doctoral education in Sri Lanka. The new programmes offer ambitious professionals the opportunity to pursue PhD and DBA recognized internationally, equipping them with the knowledge and expertise to excel in their chosen fields.

March 19, 2024

Colombo, 18^th March 2024. Project Transform (PT), a civil society organization formed by the Rotaract Club of University of Moratuwa, the Sri Lanka National Commission for UNESCO, and the YKG Foundation, announced that it is seeking funding for its Principals Leadership Programme – its key initiative to transform K-12 education in Sri Lanka through 21^st Century Skills, thereby helping the country to achieve first-world status by 2048.

To transform K-12 education, PT is organizing the Principals Leadership Programme (PLP): a residential leadership training programme for 75 government-school principals from all 25 districts of Sri Lanka. At this conference, principals will learn about the critical role of school leadership, innovative education best practices from leading countries in education, and the importance of teaching 21^st Century Skills in their schools. They will form a principals group to coordinate and develop principals’ leadership skills indefinitely into the future, and help principals develop their schools. Post-event, the Project Transform team will work with the principals until its goal is achieved: total transformation of Sri Lanka’s K-12 education system via 21^st Century Skills.

Commenting on the PLP, PT Chairman Mr. Yukthi Gunasekera said, “We embarked on Project Transform with an ambitious goal: to transform K-12 education in Sri Lanka by enhancing principals’ leadership skills and teaching 21s Century skills to students across the island. The Principals Leadership Programme is a key plank of our Project. The outcome of this Programme is students’ coming out of our education system with the skills they need to succeed in the 21^st century workplace. Since we are planning to hold the conference in June 2024, we are on the lookout for donors to come forward and support it. Given the critical importance of 21^st Century Skills for Sri Lanka to become a developed nation, we are confident that patriotic donors will step forward enthusiastically to ensure the conference happens.”

If you wish to fund the conference or need further information, you can contact Mr. Yukthi Gunasekera on +94 (0) 77 999 2442 or yukthigunasekera@gmail.com.

March 15, 2024

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In a spirit of goodwill and community enrichment, Zahira College Batch of 2009 has embarked on a series of initiatives to commemorate its 15th-year anniversary, with a strong focus on social responsibility. Among these endeavors, the recent distribution of books and school stationery to Saraswathi Tamil Vidyalayam in the UVA province stands out as a testament to their commitment to uplifting education in rural areas.

Saraswathi Tamil Vidyalayam, nestled in a rural setting in the UVA province, serves as a beacon of learning for approximately 150 students who face challenges in pursuing their education due to limited resources. Under the theme of “Akurata Piyapath” – Knowledge for the Nation, this initiative reflects the vision of contributing to the nation’s educational landscape, aiming to foster knowledge and empowerment among young minds.

Working in collaboration with Activ8 Asia (Pvt) Ltd, the Zahira College Batch of 2009 rallied together to gift books and stationery valued at close to Rs. 1 million to Saraswathi Tamil Vidyalayam.

Mr. Salim Mumtaz, President of Zahira College Batch of 2009, expressed the significance of this project, stating, “While we have undertaken similar projects in the past, this holds a special place in our hearts as we celebrate our 15th year anniversary. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all contributors who have supported this noble cause.”

Mr. Wazeel Nizar, a member of Zahira College Batch of 2009 and Managing Director of Activ8 Asia (Pvt) Ltd, echoed this sentiment, expressing immense pride in joining forces with Zahira College to uplift education in rural communities. “Education has the power to catalyze positive change, and we are committed to supporting projects that contribute to this cause continuously,” he affirmed.

The impact of Zahira College’s generosity was palpable at Saraswathi Tamil Vidyalayam, where the smiles on the faces of children reflected the hope and opportunity that education brings. The Principal, teachers, and parents were deeply moved by the gesture, recognizing the significance of Zahira College’s choice in selecting their school for support.

As Zahira College Batch of 2009 continues to commemorate its 15-year journey, more events and programs are slated to unfold, further cementing their legacy of excellence and community engagement. With a steadfast commitment to empowering dreams and inspiring learning, they are poised to make a lasting difference in the lives of young learners and communities at large.

March 15, 2024

The International Institute of Health Sciences (IIHS), a pioneer in providing specialised education tailored to the evolving needs of the healthcare sector, has introduced several study programmes in Psychology, Nutrition and Paramedic Disciplines.

BSc. (Hons) in Psychology, BSc. (Hons) in Forensic Psychology and BSc. (Hons) in Sports and Exercise Psychology are some of the newly introduced programmes. Aligning with the evolving needs of the healthcare sector, they not only underscore the commitment of IIHS to stay at the forefront of educational evolution in South Asia but also aim to produce highly skilled professionals ready to meet the demands of the healthcare landscape.

IIHS has also introduced a transformative Nutrition programme, with the view of empowering students with a deep understanding of nutritional science. The Certificate in Sports Nutrition and Certificate in Fundamentals of Food Science programmes awarded by IIHS are incorporated with hands-on labs, real-world case studies, and collaboration with industry experts, where students can gain practical skills that empower them to revolutionise the field.

In addition, the BSc (Hons.) in Paramedic Science programme offered by the IIHS is designed to shape the next generation of healthcare professionals. The programme emphasises on critical thinking, rapid decision-making, and effective communication, rounding up future healthcare professionals to make a lasting impact on the industry.

“With these programmes, we equip students with a profound understanding of human behaviour, mental processes, and emotional well-being under various disciplines. The programmes are offered by the Coventry University (UK). We position students at the forefront of the industry with a dynamic fusion of theory and clinical learning. We invite those interested to join us as we embark on a dynamic journey committed to reshaping the future of healthcare.” said IIHS Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Kithsiri Edirisinghe.

March 14, 2024

Offering students pathways to global healthcare careers, the Asiri Academy of Health Sciences (AAHS), as the education arm of leading healthcare provider Asiri Health, has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) recently with MI College Maldives, a reputed educational institute empowering the younger generation.

The partnership will facilitate training for Maldivian healthcare professionals and students in areas such as nursing, phlebotomy, and medical technology with an aim to support the healthcare sector in the Maldives and promote international career advancement.

The new alliance represents a significant milestone for Asiri Academy of Health Sciences, marking its first international collaboration. AAHS, is now venturing into international education serving as an exceptional gateway for students aspiring to embark on global healthcare careers.

AAHS will offer Maldivian students a Higher National Diploma in Nursing – National Vocational Qualification Level 6 (NVQ 6), a three-year program that produces qualified nurses eligible for top up to a bachelor’s degrees.

Additionally, AAHS will offer a Certificate in Medical Laboratory Assistant, NVQ Level 3, a three-month program for lab professionals and a Certificate in Phlebotomy, NVQ Level 3, a three-month skills enhancement program for phlebotomists.

Commenting on the partnership, Asiri Hospital Holdings CEO, Dr. Manjula Karunaratne added. “With ever-growing talent and skill needed in global healthcare, we are pleased to collaborate with MI College and support Maldivian talent leveraging our expertise. The partnership also reflects AAHS and Asiri Health’s commitment to developing healthcare capacity in Maldives through world-class programs.”

The partnership will also support the Maldivian healthcare system by providing qualified trained staff for local hospitals. The courses are set to commence within the next two months, with the nursing program requiring students to be physically present in Sri Lanka for approximately two and a half to three years.

Furthermore, AAHS, as the official education partner for Asiri Health’s Port City facility, will provide potential employment opportunities to local and international students who have completed the Higher National Diploma in Nursing (NVQ 6) program and top up degree.

These opportunities will be at Asiri Health’s soon-to-open 500-bed tertiary care hospital within the Port City Colombo which aims to deliver innovative and state of the art healthcare solutions and unique patient care services. It also presents attractive career prospects for nursing graduates in an elite international facility.

AAHS offers a diverse range of programs tailored to nurture students’ passion and drive in the healthcare industry. The Academy’s comprehensive offerings are meticulously designed to provide the requisite knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience. The AAHS faculty includes accomplished academics and experienced clinicians, providing a unique blend of knowledge and practical insights to students. As part of the Asiri Health Group, the Academy benefits from modern facilities and cutting-edge medical equipment, creating a conducive environment for learning.

March 12, 2024

The International Institute of Health Sciences (IIHS) has been able to rise to the top among health education institutes in the South Asian region by further expanding their high-quality educational programmes designed for students who wish to pursue careers in the health sector, including nursing. Since its inception, the IIHS has been producing globally recognised healthcare professionals whose impact reverberates not only within the corridors of the institute but across the international healthcare industry. They have recently launched the theme “Piliganeemen Ihalai” (bearing a high recognition) with their widespread recognition for excellence in nurturing healthcare talent. They consider producing globally recognised healthcare professionals to be more than a mere goal – a resounding reality.

IIHS is offering high quality study programmes, which are pathways to global success recognised by esteemed bodies such as the National Health Services, and both Sri Lankan and global health systems. Their curriculum is a testament to international standards which resonate with outcome-oriented, inclusive, and quality education. In line with the fact that education is a transformative force that should be accessible to all, they have made it more affordable. What truly makes them “Piliganeemen Ihalai” is not just their aspirations for global recognition, but the tangible partnerships and affiliations underscoring their commitment to excellence. IIHS has reflected their pursuit of excellence not only in their vision but also by partnering with several globally-recognised universities such as the Deakin University (Australia), James Cook University (Australia), Edith Cowan University (Australia), Coventry University (UK), Metropolia University (Finland), University of Aberdeen (UK), Open University of Malaysia and SUNY Canton University (USA). IIHS students receive an astounding perspective on healthcare, transforming themselves into global experts. These partnerships not only broaden the horizons of students but also reinforce their (IIHS) place as a globally-recognised hub for healthcare education.

“The schools of IIHS are structured to cater to diverse educational needs, offering programmes at the vocational, undergraduate, and postgraduate levels. Our faculties encompass a wide array of disciplines critical to modern healthcare, including Nursing and Health Studies, Biomedical Sciences, Education, Health Business Management, and Allied Health Sciences. Our programmes are meticulously designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to thrive globally. We believe in producing not just professionals but compassionate leaders who can navigate the complexities of the healthcare landscape with integrity and resilience as we encapsulate our image to be “Piliganeemen Ihalai”, said IIHS Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Kithsiri Edirisinghe. IIHS ensures that our graduates are not just well-versed in theory, but equipped with the practical skills demanded by the evolving healthcare industry. As they continue to write their story, those interested are invited to be a part of a community that goes beyond borders. Join them in shaping the future of healthcare education, where global recognition is not just a destination but a continuous journey towards excellence. Choose IIHS – where education knows no limits, and your potential has no boundaries. With the theme “Api piliganeemen Ihalai” IIHS will continue revolutionising the health industry.

March 11, 2024

The ceremony celebrates the achievements of Sri Lankan alumni from UK universities.

The winners of the Study UK Alumni Awards 2023-24 in Sri Lanka were announced at a ceremony, hosted by the British Council in Colombo. The ceremony was attended by senior representatives from government, private organisations, and UK alumni.

The Award judges selected recipients for the four Award categories: Science and Sustainability, Culture and Creativity, Social Action, and Business and Innovation. The awardees were recognised for their outstanding achievements as business professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders, and for their contribution to strengthening ties between the UK and Sri Lanka. The awards were handed out to the winning Alumni by the British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Andrew Patrick.

Andrew Patrick, the British High Commissioner said: ‘The UK Alumni Awards celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of UK alumni in Sri Lanka. The exceptional contributions of these individuals show incredible talent, drive, and a commitment to excellence. The finalists of this year’s awards are testimony not only to the diversity of UK alumni and their outstanding achievements in their chosen fields, but also the transformative impact of a UK education.’

Orlando Edwards, Director, British Council Sri Lanka, said: ‘Today, we commemorate the achievements of extraordinary individuals who are influencing the world around them through the skills, knowledge, and experiences gained from their UK education. This year’s awards ceremony is a celebration of the diverse skill sets and endeavours of UK alumni, the transformative impact a UK education can have, and the inspiring success stories of our winners, the future leaders of Sri Lanka.’

This prestigious international award celebrates UK higher education and the achievements of UK alumni all over the world. Now in its tenth year, the award received more than 1,450 applications from international UK alumni nearly from 100 countries, representing more than 140 UK higher education institutions across the UK.

This year’s Sri Lankan winners of UK alumni awards were:

Business and Innovation: Ms Lishni Tilakaratne, University of Westminster and Canterbury Christ Church University.

Science and Sustainability: Dr Mohamed Rishard Mohamed Riyal, University of Dundee

Social Action: Ms Poornima Meegammana, Northumbria University Newcastle and De Montfort University

Culture and Creativity: Ms Lanka Bandaranayake, Bournemouth University

The finalists for this year’s Study UK Alumni Awards 2023-24 in Sri Lanka were:

Business and Innovation: Ms Lishni Tilakaratne, Mr Aamir Salie and Mr Sushan Peiris

Science and Sustainability: Dr Mohamed Rishard Mohamed Riyal, Dr Doluweera Sachith Mettananda and Dr Iresha Atthanayake

Culture and Creativity: Ms Lanka Bandaranayake, Mr Eranda Ehelepola and Dr Ayesha Wickramasinghe

Social Action: Ms Poornima Meegammana, Dr Madura Thiwanka Pathirana and Dr Panangalage Dona Hemamalie Dias Gunatilaka

March 6, 2024

The Royal International School (RIS) in Kurunegala recently donated a computer laboratory to the Wa/Sri Rahula Vidyalaya in Weragala under its “RIS Manussakama (Humanity)” social care programme. It was built at the request of Mr. Ashoka Wanninayake, Principal of Sri Rahula Vidyalaya, and with the financial support of Royal International School. The alumni and parents of students of Sri Rahula Vidyalaya contributed with physical labour. The laboratory was declared open by the Chairperson of Royal International School, attorney-in-law Madam Sandra B. Wanduragala on March 05.

Rahula Vidyalaya was initially established at a temple in the area, and relocated to a four-acre land at its current location in 1935. It is currently running as a junior school, and there are 164 students who are studying under the guidance of 19 teachers. All its students who sat for the Grade Five Scholarship Examination last year have scored more than 100 marks and have displayed their academic prowess. Further, two students from their sports section have been selected for the provincial competitions. Another student has been selected for the All-Island language and literature competition. Their students have also been able to secure provincial level achievements in aesthetic subjects. An IT lab was a dire need for the school and its students to further excel in their studies. The Royal International School’s “RIS Manussakama” programme, which selects schools where such underprivileged children study, offers various forms of assistance, with a mission to uplift education in the North Western Province. Education has long been regarded as a potent force for effecting positive change in our world, a sentiment beautifully encapsulated in the words of Nelson Mandela: ‘Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.’ Here at RIS, we wholeheartedly embrace this belief, cherishing the transformative power of education and its capacity to shape a brighter, more inclusive future for all. With dedication and unwavering commitment, we stand firm in our belief that through education, we can indeed change the world for the better.

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SLIIT becomes only Sri Lankan university shortlisted for ‘Oscars of Higher Education’ – THE Awards Asia 2024

Opening of Identity College of Higher Education

ESOFT Launches Doctoral Programmes with Renowned Universities

Project Transform Seeks Support for Principals Leadership Programme

The Zahira College Batch of 2009 Empowers Rural Education Through a Book Gifting Drive.

IIHS launches new study programmes in Psychology, Nutrition and Paramedic disciplines

Asiri Academy of Health Sciences and MI College Maldives forge partnership to offer internationally recognized healthcare education programs

IIHS continues to revolutionise the healthcare industry with their theme ‘Api Piliganeemen Ihalai’

Winners of Study UK Alumni Awards announced in Sri Lanka

Royal International School donates a computer lab to Rahula Vidyalaya in Weragala