Strengthening Transnational Education with Australian Excellence

In a significant step toward advancing international education in Sri Lanka, the Australasian Academy officially launched the Holmesglen Information Technology Diploma Programmes, in partnership with Holmesglen Institute, Australia. The event took place at the Hilton Residences Colombo, bringing together academic leaders, diplomats, and industry professionals to celebrate this milestone.

The launch ceremony was graced by Hon. Professor Ruwan Ranasinghe, Deputy Minister of Tourism – Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism of Sri Lanka, who delivered the keynote address. A respected academic and policymaker, Professor Ranasinghe highlighted the transformative potential of such global collaborations in enhancing Sri Lanka’s capacity in education, technology, and tourism. He commended the initiative as a timely boost for students seeking globally recognized qualifications locally.

The event also welcomed several distinguished guests including:

• H.E. Paul Stephens, Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka
• Ms. Mary Faraone, Chief Executive, Holmesglen Institute
• Mishelle Wade, Commissioner – South Asia, Global Victoria
• Des Perkins, Associate Director, Global Relations and Partnerships at Holmesglen Institute
• Mr. Kalum De Silva, Managing Director, Australasian Academy
• Naima Markar, Director – Academics, Australasian Academy
• ChathuraKotagama, Chief Operations Officer, Australasian Academy
• Sandy Senevirathne, Director, Austrade

The evening began with the traditional lighting of the oil lamp, followed by the national anthems of Sri Lanka and Australia. A compelling corporate video introduced the Holmesglen Australasian Academy partnership, underscoring their commitment to delivering industry-relevant education.

A key highlight was the official signing of the partnership agreement between Ms. Mary Faraone and Mr. Kalum De Silva, witnessed by high-level dignitaries including Des Perkins, Mishelle Wade, and Naima Markar. The ceremony continued with a celebratory cake-cutting and presentation of tokens of appreciation by Professor Ruwan Ranasinghe to selected international guests.

The launch concluded with an informative programme overview, a panel on industry insights, and a fellowship session, where guests explored the future of global-standard IT education in Sri Lanka. This strategic collaboration is poised to provide Sri Lankan students with direct access to world-class academic pathways and job-ready qualifications, reinforcing the Australasian Academy’s mission to elevate education through innovative, globally aligned partnerships.