"Bank of Ceylon's commitment to strengthening higher education sector is truly exceptional"

Spanning a 60-acre campus, NSBM Green University is the first purpose-built Green University in South Asia, a distinction it holds with pride. As a Ministry of Higher Education-approved, degree-awarding institution, NSBM has emerged as a leading destination for higher education in Sri Lanka. Each year, a significant number of students who meet the eligibility criteria for university admission are unable to secure placements in local public universities. Many among them opt to pursue education abroad, leading to a considerable outflow of foreign exchange, a persistent challenge for the national economy.

- ■In conversation with NSBM Green University Vice Chancellor Prof. E.A. Weerasinghe

IN response, NSBM Green University has remained focused on offering world-class, high-quality higher education opportunities within Sri Lanka. Currently, more than 13,000 students are enrolled, supported by a robust academic structure that includes five faculties, 12 departments, and over 60 undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes.

Since its inception, the university has produced over 20,000 graduates, playing a key role in shaping the country's skilled workforce. Institution's mission revolves around the conviction that access to quality education must extend beyond urban centres. Ensuring equitable academic opportunities for students from rural backgrounds remains a core priority. In parallel, NSBM aspires to become a globally recognised centre of learning, one that not only aligns with international standards but redefines them through innovation and excellence.

Institutions like the Bank of Ceylon have been instrumental in supporting this vision. Through their contributions to infrastructure development, funding, and strategic collaboration, BOC continues to be a vital partner in NSBM's journey toward creating a more educated, empowered, and inclusive Sri Lanka. NSBM Green University Founding Vice Chancellor Prof. E.A. Weerasinghe explains how the Bank of Ceylon has supported the university and its students for the longest time.

What role has the Bank of Ceylon played in the development of NSBM Green University so far?

A:The Bank of Ceylon has been instrumental in shaping the growth and success of NSBM Green University. From the very beginning, we received expressions of interest from several local banks offering to support us with initial funding. But when the time came to choose a financial partner, we selected the Bank of Ceylon, Sri Lanka's premier state-owned bank — for its longstanding reputation, national presence, and alignment with our values and the ability to stand as a single lender for the project.