Acumen Global University Immersive Programme: Exploring New Opportunities in Sri Lanka

The Acumen Global University Immersive Programme, held in Sri Lanka in September 2024, offered an invaluable experience for In-country Representatives looking to expand their reach in the vibrant Sri Lankan education market. This three-day mission featured a blend of market insights, strategic networking, and cultural immersion, designed to connect universities with key stakeholders and future students.

Why Sri Lanka? A Market of Potential

Sri Lanka’s higher education demand is on a notable rise. With only 20 state universities accommodating a fraction of the 166,000 students passing the GCE A/L exams annually, the need for international education options is significant. The British Council forecasts that outbound student mobility will exceed 32,000 by 2027, making Sri Lanka a growing destination for international universities.

The mission provided participants with a firsthand look at these opportunities which included engagement with local institutions, agents, and government representatives, delving into the specifics of Sri Lanka’s higher education landscape and exploring paths for collaboration and student recruitment.

Highlights from the Programme

The event kicked off on 25th September with an informal sunset meet-and-greet at Colombo’s picturesque beachfront. Delegates enjoyed a relaxed evening of networking, bonding over a sandcastle-building competition, and concluding with a casual dinner under the stars. 

On 26th September, the formal programme began with an orientation session where delegates received an overview of Sri Lanka’s education market from industry experts, including distinguished speakers Mr. David Samuel, Dr. Patrick McNamara, and Professor Lalith Gamage. Participants gained valuable insights into student mobility trends, government policies, and strategic opportunities for partnerships.

Following this, delegates visited Horizon Campus and Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology (SLIIT), two leading institutions in Colombo. These visits allowed university representatives to meet faculty, engage with students, and explore possibilities for transnational education (TNE) and joint programmes. In the evening, the team attended a networking dinner with school counsellors, offering a valuable platform to connect with educators from prominent institutions, including The British School and Colombo International School.

The final day featured school showcases at Ladies’ College and Gateway College, providing delegates with an understanding of local student aspirations and preferences. This was followed by a meeting with the University Grants Commission (UGC), where discussions focused on enhancing research collaborations and joint educational initiatives. The programme concluded with a scenic agent dinner on a cruise boat along Colombo’s coastline—an ideal setting for fostering relationships with leading education agents.

Unlocking New Opportunities in Sri Lanka

The Acumen Global University Immersive Programme successfully bridged the gap between international universities and the growing Sri Lankan student base. Participants left with actionable insights, strengthened networks, and a clear roadmap for engaging in one of Asia’s most promising education markets.