The OCBT Campus - Colombo has earned an enviable reputation for its innovative study courses. Since starting operations in early 2009, it has produced many students who have performed well in both studies and practical applications.

Situated in a convenient location (see the map log on www.ocbt.lk) in Kirulapone, Colombo 6, the institute offers a range of IT, business, vocational and language-related courses. These programmes - from certificate level to degree level - are designed to meet the demands of the local and global job markets.

OCBT's main study courses are the Higher National Diploma in IT, the Higher National Diploma in Business Management (both by Edexcel UK) and the Certified Software Engineering Programme which leads to a Bachelor's Degree. It also conducts programmes in Marketing Management, Interior Designing and Decoration, Spoken English, Business English and professional certification coaching for PHP, Java and Microsoft related exams.

OCBT ensures that its qualifications are career-oriented and internationally-recognized. Towards this end, it works in collaboration with reputed institutes and organizations locally and abroad. There are many advantages studying at OCBT. These include high-quality programme delivery by a committed and highly-qualified lecture panel, air-conditioned classrooms with good facilities and a pleasant study environment, affordable fees, flexible payment terms and the facilitation of student loans from leading banks. Its courses combine both theoretical and practical knowledge in a way that enhances one's job prospects and earning potential.

Chief Operating Officer of OCBT Campus, Prasanna Aluthge said the students have achieved much since coming here. "People following our IT programmes are coming out with original concepts and products", he pointed out.

For example, one student is in the process of inventing a webcam user identification system, and another is developing an advanced robotic arm for various purposes. Another is building a system that analyzes the success of hybrid models of vehicles. Students following software development courses have come up with some innovative software solutions, while business students have conceived innovative models of management and business processes for companies in Sri Lanka.

"Through this practical approach, we think our students will fit into the real world and have a competitive advantage in the job market," said Aluthge. He further stated they offer internships to students during the course to enhance their practical knowledge.

OCBT, which is a Japanese-funded BOI company, has been commended by its partners as a well-managed institution in terms of education, discipline and innovation. There are strict regulations to govern the conduct of both lecturers and students. "We have a very good lecture panel, and undertake continuous evaluation of both lecturers and students," said Aluthge. "For weak students, we assign special lecturers to focus on them and help them perform well." He also pointed out their lecturers are highly-qualified, and have MBAs, MAs and MScs along with industrial experience.

Aluthge attributes OCBT's success to their teaching method that stresses on innovation. He also noted their programmes are in accordance with global market requirements and evolve with the latest developments taking place in the world of business. At OCBT, the batch size in a classroom is always less than 20, so that more individual attention could be paid to students. It also offers scholarships of up to 100% for deserving students.

Aluthge said their language programmes are linked to the City & Guilds examination. OCBT also conducts in-house exams that is higher in standard, and includes practical things such as delivering speeches at a conference, structured debates, drama etc. Student evaluation includes presentations, open book and close book exams, and assignments.

In conclusion, it must be emphasized that OCBT's study courses are oriented towards real world success. They are designed to take advantage of the exciting career opportunities opening up globally.