President Wickremesinghe unveils Times Institute of Higher Education, announces expansion of learning opportunities

President Ranil Wickremesinghe today (12) unveiled the “Times Institute of Higher Education” marking a significant step towards expanding high-quality educational opportunities in Sri Lanka.

Launched at the Galle Face Hotel, this new institution, a subsidiary of Wijeya Newspaper Company, will offer diverse job-oriented courses and collaborate with international universities to meet global standards.

The President’s initiative aims to bolster the country’s educational infrastructure and support its transition to a digital economy.

The Times Institute of Higher Education, a new initiative by Wijeya Newspaper Company Limited, has been established to provide education that meets international standards. In collaboration with three foreign universities, the institute offers a range of job-oriented courses, including certificates, diplomas, and advanced diplomas. It also features professional skill development programs and undergraduate and postgraduate options through its Digital Academy.

A five-member advisory board, appointed by Wijeya Newspaper Ltd, will oversee the institute’s operations, ensuring that the education provided aligns with global benchmarks. The board is committed to improving educational quality for Sri Lankan youth and plans to expand partnerships with additional international universities.

At the inauguration event, President Ranil Wickremesinghe launched the institute’s new website and emphasized the importance of modern education. He highlighted the need for such institutions to support the country’s shift towards an export-oriented economy and the digital era.

The government plans to fund vocational training for 50,000 youths and expects new industries to create around 100,000 jobs in the coming years. President Wickremesinghe stressed that maintaining high standards in education is crucial for achieving these goals.

The event was attended by Minister of Education Dr. Susil Premajayantha, New Zealand’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka David Pine, Senior Advisor to the President on Climate Change Ruwan Wijewardene, University Grants Commission Chairman Prof. Sampath Amaratunge, and various other dignitaries.