Sri Lanka (Commonwealth Union)_ In a remarkable shift in the landscape of higher education, Sri Lanka has recently surpassed Malaysia to become the United Kingdom’s second-largest partner in transnational education (TNE). This development is underscored by Sri Lanka accounting for an impressive 10 percent of all UK TNE enrollments in the past year. This trend reflects a growing recognition of TNE as a vital pathway for higher education in Sri Lanka, addressing critical challenges such as education accessibility, skills mismatch, and the overall quality of higher education in the country.
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The rise of TNE in Sri Lanka can be attributed to various forms of partnerships established between UK universities and local institutions. Notably, there are six distinct types of TNE collaborations observed within the region, with collaborative provisions being the predominant method of enrollment. According to the statement from British High Commissioner of Sri Lanka, Andrew Patrick, during the Pearson BTEC Higher Education Forum 2024 in Colombo, this leap from the third to the second-largest TNE partner is a significant achievement considering Sri Lanka’s population size.
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From 2022 to 2023, Sri Lanka also marked itself as the fastest-growing host country for UK TNE, with enrollments soaring by 50 percent, totaling 53,915 students. This growth has largely occurred organically, with limited direct support from the British government. Such a dramatic increase highlights the importance of TNE partnerships, especially in a country where only a quarter of eligible students gain admission to public universities. Additionally, a recent study by the British Council indicates that TNE partnerships are increasingly becoming a vital alternative for students who would otherwise struggle to access tertiary education.
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Furthermore, beyond merely expanding educational opportunities, TNE arrangements are instrumental in bridging the quality gaps present in Sri Lanka’s educational framework. By leveraging connections with UK institutions, these partnerships not only provide students with valuable learning opportunities but also help address gaps in local curricula. Moreover, TNE initiatives play a critical role in preparing skilled professionals for the local labor market. For instance, many judges in Sri Lanka, as well as in countries like Pakistan and Malaysia, have obtained their law degrees from the University of London. This highlights the capacity of TNE to equip students with relevant qualifications that meet local employment needs.
Another significant advantage of TNE is the reduction of lengthy wait times associated with state university admissions. The traditional process often forces students to endure a wait of one to two years before they can begin their studies. TNE offers a more immediate alternative, enabling students to enroll without unnecessary delays. Additionally, innovative pedagogical strategies employed in TNE programs also enhance the learning experience, incorporating contemporary methodologies alongside traditional educational approaches. Despite these advancements, there remains a noticeable lack of comprehensive research focusing on TNE within the Sri Lankan higher education sector. Previous government initiatives also aimed to formalize TNE through regulatory frameworks and monitoring systems. Plans were underway to support private higher education institutions, both foreign and local, by establishing clear incentives and guidelines for their operation.
Looking forward, High Commissioner Patrick expressed hope that the growth of TNE in Sri Lanka will continue organically, emphasizing the importance of understanding the benefits of such expansion. He also encouraged Sri Lankan graduates to consider career opportunities within Asia, particularly in India, which he identified as a burgeoning epicenter for growth in the 21st century. Furthermore, Sri Lanka’s ascent to becoming the UK’s second-largest partner in transnational education underscores the transformative potential of TNE in enhancing educational accessibility and addressing skills mismatch. As the country continues to evolve in this domain, the collaboration with UK universities promises to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of higher education and workforce development in Sri Lanka.
