SLT collaborates with UGC and University of Colombo on new degree programmes
View(s):SLT Human Capital Solutions (SLT HCS), a fully owned subsidiary of Sri Lanka Telecom (SLT) together with the University Grants Commission (UGC), and the University of Colombo (UoC), recently signed a tri-party Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), to offer modern degree programmes in the field of Technology and Engineering.
The initiative helps expand the much needed University-Industry collaboration, in order to contribute to Sri Lanka’s rapid national development.
The initiative is coordinated by SLT HCS in affiliation with the UOC, under the purview of the UGC, promises to contribute to the current national requirement in the higher education field, according to an SLT statement.
This is a first-of-its-kind collaborative venture initiated by the corporate sector and supported by the UGC. It is also the first Technology and Engineering programme that is to be accredited by a Sri Lankan university at International competitive standards, without the involvement of foreign institutions.
Commenting on the landmark initiative, the Chairperson of the UGC, Sri Lanka, Professor Kshanika Hirimburegama said: “The introduction of this programme addresses the current shortage of local universities, in accommodating the demand for Technology and Engineering Degrees.”
The UoC will be responsible for ensuring the quality of the degree programme, conducting examinations and sourcing qualified academics. Vice Chancellor of the UoC, Dr. Kumara Hirimburegama stated: “This collaboration paves the path for us to introduce a much needed Technology and Engineering Degree, strengthening the University-Industry collaboration in the competitive globalised economy. We are pleased to partner with the SLT Group that has industry expertise spanning over 150 years, also in the state sector. The collaboration will enable us to groom and produce the next generation of Technologists and Engineers as entrepreneurs, who will undoubtedly be an asset to the country”.
The degree programme will be conducted at SLT’s training facilities in Welisara, Galle and Moratuwa which comprises lecture rooms that can accommodate over 200 students and is fully equipped with state-of-the-art ICT and Technological Laboratories, Conference Halls, Libraries, Residential Facilities, Recreation and Sports facilities including Gymnasiums. The project will be self-financed.
Chief Executive Officer of SLT Human Capital Solutions, Ranjith G. Rubasinghe said: “The SLT group will provide the entire necessary realty infrastructure, academic facilities and most importantly, the required industrial expertise to conduct a recognised, comprehensive and affordable programme for students. This venture perfectly complements the Government’s ambition of transforming Sri Lanka into a knowledge hub.”