Colombo International Campus (CIC) announced a strategic partnership with the University of East Anglia (UEA) UK, marking a significant milestone in Sri Lanka’s higher education landscape. This collaboration brings the academic excellence and global recognition of a world class university directly to Sri Lankan students, offering the opportunity to achieve some of the best internationally recognized qualifications right here in Sri Lanka. UEA is currently ranked in the top 30 universities in the UK, as well as in the top 400 universities worldwide (QS 2026).
CIC is the natural evolution of Campus Direct, a trusted name in international education and student placement with over 18 years of experience. Built on a “student first” philosophy, CIC is designed to bridge the gap between local talent and global academic standards, providing students with access to high quality education and career pathways. By collaborating with UEA, CIC is strengthening its commitment to delivering higher education at an internationally recognised standard.
Commenting on the partnership, Amrith Weerasekera (Director, CIC) said, “While Sri Lanka has seen a growth in international partnerships, this collaboration stands out for its global ranking and research pedigree. This collaboration with UEA reflects our commitment to delivering the best in world-class education that is accessible, relevant, and affordable. It enables students in Sri Lanka to gain globally recognised qualifications while developing the practical skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive job market.”
Through this partnership, students in Sri Lanka can now pursue both undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications aligned with UEA’s globally respected curriculums. Programmes span key disciplines including Business, IT, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and more, with transfer opportunities included.
Suresh Gunasekera (Director, CIC) stated “This partnership represents a pivotal step in our journey to redefine higher education in Sri Lanka. By aligning with a globally ranked, research-led UK university, we are not only expanding academic opportunities but also ensuring that our students are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and global exposure needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive world. Our focus remains on delivering accessible, high-quality education that meets international standards while staying rooted in local relevance”
Based in Norwich, UK, UEA is a research intensive university renowned for its teaching excellence, innovation, and student experience. The university is currently ranked among the top institutions globally, positioned as26th in the UK (Complete University Guide 2026) and 156th in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026. UEA is also recognised as a research leader, ranking among the UK’s top 25 for research quality, while maintaining strong global standing in sustainability and equality.
The partnership ensures that Sri Lankan students benefit from the same academic rigour and internationally recognised qualifications as their counterparts in the UK, without the high costs typically associated with overseas education. By studying locally at CIC, students gain access to a globally respected degree at a significantly more affordable cost, getting the best of both worlds.
Prof Steven McGuire, Senior Pro Vice Chancellor and Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of East Anglia stated “We are delighted to partner with Colombo International Campus in bringing the University of East Anglia’s academic excellence to Sri Lanka. This collaboration reflects our commitment to widening access to high-quality, research-informed education globally. We look forward to supporting students in Sri Lanka through innovative teaching, a globally relevant curriculum, and a strong emphasis on employability and real world impact.”
CIC’s Colombo campus has been purpose built to support this vision, featuring smart classrooms, advanced IT and Life Science laboratories, and a vibrant student environment that includes recreational spaces, a fully equipped gym, and collaborative learning areas. This modern infrastructure complements UEA’s academic framework, ensuring a holistic and future-focused learning experience.
The CIC UEA partnership represents a new era in higher education in Sri Lanka, one that combines international prestige, local accessibility, and a strong focus on employability, empowering students to pursue global careers without leaving the country. Enrollments will immediately commence for the inaugural batch commencing in January 2027.
