The Role of Quality Transnational Education in Sri Lanka’s Future
View(s):Transnational Education (TNE) has emerged as a cornerstone in the transformation of higher education systems worldwide, enabling students to obtain internationally recognised qualifications while studying in their home countries. In South Asia, and particularly in Sri Lanka, TNE is making a profound impact. The British Council is working with local policymakers and international institutions to ensure the delivery of quality TNE.
Mr Eduardo Ramos, Director of International & Professional Services at Quality Assurance Agency
Sri Lanka has now emerged as the second-largest and fastest-growing partner for UK TNE, accounting for 10% of all UK TNE enrolments globally. With 45 UK institutions catering to 55,000 students locally, this growth is driven by the country’s ambition to position itself as a regional education hub. Between 2020-2021 and 2022-2023, Sri Lankan enrolments in TNE programs increased by 50 percent, underscoring its significance in the education landscape.
The Parliamentary Select Committee on Education has proposed establishing 25 universities across the country through public-private partnerships, aiming to expand both academic and vocational education. Additionally, a British Council report in August 2024 highlighted aspirations to attract students from neighbouring countries, further cementing Sri Lanka’s position as a regional hub for TNE. Deep Dialogues, a platform facilitated by the British Council, recently held its first session outside the UK in Sri Lanka. Mr Salvador Carbajal Lopez, Director Education, South Asia, British Council, describes this initiative as a space for open exchange under Chatham House rules, bringing together public officials, academic leaders, and regulators to discuss quality assurance and policy alignment.
Regionally, there is a significant disparity in access to public higher education. In Sri Lanka, for instance, only approximately 25% of eligible students gain access to public universities annually. TNE offers a viable alternative for those unable to secure placements, though it remains a paid option. The growing middle class in South Asia has further fuelled the demand for high-quality international qualifications.
Mr Josh Fleming, Director of Strategy and Delivery, Office for Students, UK
Mr Eduardo Ramos, Director of International & Professional Services at Quality Assurance Agency (QAA), emphasises this trend, noting a shift toward regional mobility: “More people are opting to stay in their regions, making Sri Lanka an attractive destination for obtaining UK qualifications without leaving the region.”
Maintaining high standards in TNE is crucial. Quality assurance measures focus on assessments, student support, and institutional alignment to ensure that students receive the resources, skills, and experiences necessary to thrive. The British Council plays a pivotal role in this process, facilitating partnerships and supporting institutions in aligning with international standards.
Mr Ramos highlighted the quality assurance process, stating, “Self-evaluation reports are submitted and independently verified, particularly through individual stakeholders like vice-chancellors and students. We collect contact details of students for interviews and implement checks and balances to avoid conflicts of interest.”
The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges, requiring institutions to adapt rapidly to maintain quality. Mr Josh Fleming, Director of Strategy and Delivery, Office for Students, UK, highlights the innovation during this period, particularly the integration of hybrid learning models. “As long as assessments remain credible, innovation is always welcome,” he notes.
Fleming elaborates on the comprehensive approach to monitoring quality. “Overall quality depends on the actual course and its unique requirements in terms of practical facilities, equipment, and academic guidance and resources. Students bring in their contexts based on their backgrounds and experiences, which is great, but institutions need to ensure these unique needs are met. Tailoring academic programmes to this diversity is essential,” he adds. He also underscores the importance of regulatory mechanisms: “Currently, our monitoring system involves data and event reports because TNE providers are obligated to keep the regulator informed of standards. Individual grievance handling starts at the university level, ensuring reports can be trusted, with regulatory intervention acting as a secondary safeguard.”
Mr Salvador Carbajal Lopez, Director, Education, South Asia, British Council
Mr Ramos adds that quality assurance systems have evolved to monitor and measure key aspects more effectively, though he stresses that ultimate responsibility lies with the institutions. “We aim for continuity and consistency, ensuring students achieve their academic goals,” he affirms.
Regulation is integral to the sustainability of TNE. Sri Lanka’s relatively unregulated TNE environment has facilitated rapid expansion. Quality assurance plays a central role in delivering quality education outcomes. Universities have expressed a willingness to welcome some level of regulation to ensure minimum standards are met. Proposed reforms to Sri Lanka’s higher education sector include quality assurance measures for TNE partnerships.
Mr Fleming and Mr Ramos highlight the British Council’s role as a facilitator in aligning local and UK regulations. “We’re open to engaging with local regulators to identify friction points and harmonize standards,” Mr Ramos states. This collaborative approach ensures that students benefit from consistent, high-quality education regardless of location.
As South Asia’s demand for higher education continues to grow, TNE’s role in meeting this demand cannot be overstated. For Sri Lanka, the challenge lies in balancing rapid expansion with quality assurance. By fostering partnerships, supporting regulatory reforms, and leveraging innovation, stakeholders aim to create a resilient and inclusive TNE ecosystem.
“Ultimately, it’s about ensuring students get what they need to thrive,” Mr Fleming concludes. British Council and UK institutions would continue to support in that endeavour. Sri Lanka is well-positioned to lead the way in transnational education in the region, helping to support young people in gaining the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in life and work within a global society.
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