Educators, school leaders and education professionals from across Sri Lanka came together at the BMICH for the International Forum for Teachers (IFT) 2026, exploring how teaching must evolve to prepare young people for a future increasingly shaped by technology, uncertainty and rapid global change.

Held on 25 July under the theme “From Knowing to Being: Preparing for a World Yet to Be Defined,” the flagship annual event organised by Gateway Graduate School focused on moving education beyond the traditional transmission of knowledge towards developing critical thinking, resilience, creativity, sound judgement and a stronger sense of purpose among learners.

The conference brought together educators from national, private and international schools, alongside speakers representing education, technology, leadership, communication, entrepreneurship and professional development. The diversity of expertise enabled participants to examine the future of education from perspectives extending well beyond conventional classroom practice.

World Champion of Public Speaking Dananjaya Hettiarachchi, presenting “Learning to Navigate, Not Just Know,” highlighted the importance of equipping young people with critical thinking and decision-making skills, enabling them to respond confidently to changing circumstances.

Dr. Carl Salt of Flinders University, Australia, addressed the increasingly important relationship between education and technology through his session, “Staying in Charge in a Digital World.” His presentation encouraged educators to consider how technology and artificial intelligence can be used ethically, responsibly and mindfully within learning environments.

Resilience was another central theme of the Forum, with Vidusha Nathavitharana and Shaakya Nathavitharana presenting “Building Resilience for an Uncertain World.” The session explored adaptability, perseverance and emotional strength as essential qualities for navigating change and uncertainty.

Penny Butterworth, Regional Professional Development Manager at Oxford University Press and OxfordAQA, presented “Learning to Shape the Future,” examining how teachers can nurture creativity, innovation and problem-solving while giving young people the confidence to become active contributors to positive change.

A significant highlight of IFT 2026 was the announcement of Gateway’s partnership with Jolly Learning, UK, internationally recognised for Jolly Phonics. The partnership is expected to provide Sri Lankan educators with greater access to established early literacy programmes, teaching resources and professional development opportunities.

The Forum also featured a panel discussion bringing together Professor Deborah West of Flinders University; Thilanka Abeywardena of Microsoft; Anudi Gunasekara, Miss Sri Lanka 2024 for Miss World and Founder of the Saheli Foundation; and Celeste Janik Jayasuriya.

Drawing on experiences spanning education, technology, entrepreneurship, social responsibility, leadership and the arts, the panellists discussed resilience, recognising opportunities, pursuing meaningful career paths and preparing young people to contribute positively to society.

Beyond the presentations, IFT 2026 provided an important meeting point for educators working across different parts of Sri Lanka’s education system. While participants represented diverse teaching environments, the Forum created opportunities to exchange ideas, share experiences and reflect collectively on how education can respond to a future that cannot yet be fully predicted.

Participant feedback highlighted the relevance of the presentations, diversity of perspectives and practical insights shared throughout the conference, as well as the opportunity for educators to reflect on their own influence in shaping the lives and futures of young people.

IFT 2026 was supported by sponsors and partners including Flinders University, OxfordAQA, Eduko Pathways, the University of West London and HNB, helping provide participants with access to international perspectives, professional dialogue and learning opportunities.

As the flagship annual event of Gateway Graduate School, the International Forum for Teachers forms part of its wider commitment to strengthening the teaching profession through qualifications, professional development and opportunities for educators to connect and learn from one another.

That journey is set to continue, with the next International Forum for Teachers scheduled for July 2027.

Gateway Graduate School focuses exclusively on qualifications and professional development for educators, offering pathways ranging from certificate and diploma programmes to degree and master’s qualifications.

Educators interested in advancing their qualifications, developing their careers or joining the professional network can contact 077 225 6356 or 077 925 6256 for further information on Gateway Graduate School programmes and IFT 2027.

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Gateway Graduate School, in collaboration with Flinders University, Australia and OxfordAQA, presents the eighth International Forum for Teachers (IFT) on Saturday, 25th July 2026 at the BMICH, Colombo, Sri Lanka.

This year’s theme, “From Knowing to Being: Preparing for a World Yet to Be Defined,” seeks to explore how education must prepare learners not for fixed outcomes, but for a future that is fluid, unpredictable, and constantly evolving.

IFT 2026 calls for an approach to education that equips students to navigate uncertainty with confidence, think critically in unfamiliar situations, respond to change with resilience, and act with purpose. It encourages educators to move beyond the transfer of knowledge and towards the shaping of learners who can question, explore, adapt, create, and contribute meaningfully to the wider world.

IFT remains a first of its kind initiative, open to all teachers from state, private, and international schools across Sri Lanka and the region. The Forum is driven by a mission to nurture world class educators through global partnerships and shared expertise. It provides a dynamic platform to engage in professional dialogue, exchange pedagogical insights, and reflect on the evolving needs of education in the 21st century.

Theme Overview

As the world continues to change in ways we cannot fully predict, education must help learners become not only knowledgeable, but thoughtful, adaptable, resilient, and purposeful.

The 2026 Forum will focus on how educators can:

• Develop learners who can navigate, not just know – strengthening critical thinking, decision-making, and the ability to learn in changing contexts.
• Help students stay in charge in a digital world – promoting ethical, responsible, and mindful use of technology and AI.
• Build resilience for an uncertain world – developing adaptability, perseverance, emotional strength, and the confidence to face change.
• Encourage learners to shape the future – fostering creativity, innovation, problem-solving, and the ability to create positive change.

This year’s Forum aims to spark fresh conversations and inspire real world change, helping educators prepare learners to transform uncertainty into opportunity and knowledge into purposeful action.

Featured Speakers:

Dr. Carl Salt, Lecturer and Secondary Course Coordinator, Flinders University – An experienced educator and former senior school leader, Dr. Salt brings strong insight into educational leadership, curriculum development, teacher education, and helping learners stay in charge in a rapidly changing digital world.

Penny Butterworth, Regional Professional Development Manager, Oxford University Press and OxfordAQA – A secondary education specialist and experienced teacher trainer, Penny supports schools globally through professional development in areas including wellbeing, sustainability, and effective teaching practice.

Dananjaya Hettiarachchi, International Keynote Speaker, Executive Coach and World Champion of Public Speaking – A globally acclaimed speaker known for his powerful storytelling, Dananjaya will explore how learners can build the confidence and thinking skills needed to navigate uncertainty.

Vidusha Nathavitharana and Shaakya Nathavitharana, Leadership, Learning and Youth Empowerment Practitioners – This father-daughter duo brings together experience in leadership development, communication, workplace readiness, and youth empowerment, offering practical insights on finding one’s path and shaping the future with confidence.

Distinguished Panellists:

Professor Deborah West Vice President and Executive Dean College of Human Sciences & Culture, Flinders University, Australia – with over 25 years of experience in higher education leadership, teaching, and research. Her work in student success, social work, learning analytics, and technology-enhanced learning reflects a strong commitment to preparing educators and learners for an evolving future.

Thilanka Abeywardena, Security, Cloud & AI Integrated Marketing Lead – ASEAN, Microsoft– A respected leader in technology, marketing, and women’s economic empowerment, Thilanka brings insight into future-ready leadership, innovation, and growth in a changing world.

Anudi Gunasekara, Miss Sri Lanka 2024 for Miss World and the founder of the Saheli Foundation – An advocate for dignity, equality, and women’s empowerment, Anudi brings a powerful example of how young people can act with purpose, challenge social barriers, and shape a more inclusive future.

Janik Jayasuriya, Founder and Managing Director, Celeste – A young entrepreneur driving innovation in Sri Lanka’s digital retail and logistics sector, Janik brings a perspective on resilience, entrepreneurship, and future-focused leadership.

Damith Wijayathunga, Actor, Model and Television Personality – Known for his versatility and strong screen presence, Damith brings a perspective on creativity, confidence, adaptability, and pursuing diverse passions with purpose.

Details on registration can be obtained by calling 0772256356 / 0779256356 / 0112888288 or by writing to info@ift.lk

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Gateway Graduate School has partnered with Flinders University, one of Australia’s top-ranked institutions, to introduce Sri Lanka’s first fully online Australian Master of Education (M.Ed.) programme. This landmark initiative provides Sri Lankan educators and professionals with direct access to a globally recognised postgraduate qualification delivered through an innovative and flexible learning model.

Ranked among the top 2% of universities worldwide, Flinders University brings its internationally respected expertise in teaching and educational research to Sri Lanka through this exclusive offshore offering.

A Transformative Opportunity for Educators and Training Professionals

The Master of Education is structured to allow students to complete the programme over approximately 1.5 years, through a combination of 100% online coursework and an annual four-day in-person workshop held in Sri Lanka. The qualification comprises 54 units across 12 topics, including a core research component and two specialised minors.

In a significant advancement for accessibility, applicants do not require an undergraduate degree in Education. Individuals with a bachelor’s degree in any discipline are eligible, provided they are engaged in an education or training-related role.

Sri Lankan applicants also benefit from no IELTS/TOEFL/PTE requirement.

Three Specialisations Addressing the Future of Education

Learners can tailor their degree by selecting two minors from three  specialisation areas:

• Student Inclusion
• Leadership in Education
• Digital Innovation and Artificial Intelligence in Education

Each stream is aligned with global trends and current workforce needs, equipping graduates with future-ready skills and leadership capabilities.

High-Value International Qualification at an Accessible Cost

The full Master of Education programme is competitively priced. An early-bird bursary of 10% is available for the February 2026 intake, with flexible payment arrangements.

Setting a New Benchmark in Postgraduate Education

Flinders University is rated No. 1 in South Australia for employment outcomes, teaching quality, skills development, and overall student experience in postgraduate Education (Good Universities Guide 2024 – public SA-founded universities). Through its partnership with Gateway Graduate School, Sri Lankan students gain the dual advantage of world-class academic credentials and personalised local support.

Graduates of the programme are well-prepared for roles in:

• School and institutional leadership
• Inclusive education and student wellbeing
• Curriculum design and education policy
• Learning innovation and digital transformation
• Educational research and academic development

The programme is recognised as the only one of its kind in Sri Lanka, offering Australian university excellence, flexible online learning, and career-focused specialisations at an exceptional value.

Applications Open Now

Prospective students are encouraged to submit early applications, particularly those seeking the February 2026 bursary.

For further information or to apply, please contact: Gateway Graduate School on 0772 256356 / 0779 256356 or write to info@gatewaygraduateschool.com

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International Forum for Teachers 2025 Highlights Inclusive Classrooms

The seventh International Forum for Teachers (IFT), organised by Gateway Graduate School in partnership with the University of Flinders (Australia) and Pearson Edexcel, concluded on Saturday at the BMICH, Colombo, bringing together a wide cross-section of teachers from state, private and international schools across Sri Lanka and the region.

This year’s theme, “Inclusive Classrooms: Teaching Every Child, Reaching Every Mind,” underscored the urgent need to adapt education to increasingly diverse classrooms, while highlighting innovation, empathy, and collaboration as central tools for teachers.

Global and Local Expertise

The event featured an impressive line up of keynote speakers. Dr. Alberto Luis August (University of Nottingham Malaysia) spoke on climate conscious, child centred approaches to inclusion, while Professor Gretchen Geng (Flinders University) showcased strategies for integrating digital play and XR technologies in early childhood learning. Psychologist Rasini Bandara drew attention to mental health in schools, urging teachers to build environments that support emotional safety and resilience. Kushil Gunasekera, founder of the Foundation of Goodness, reminded participants of the role of ethics, values and service in nurturing whole individuals, not just academically strong students.

Insightful Panel Discussion

Adding depth to the day’s conversations were a distinguished panel of local and regional leaders:

• Prof. Saumya Liyanage, scholar-practitioner and former Dean at the University of the Visual & Performing Arts, highlighted the power of performance, culture and embodied learning in building inclusive classrooms and bridging divides.
• Ms. Premila Paulraj, Director of Market Growth (South Asia) at Pearson, spoke on equity in education and how tailored solutions can create pathways for students from diverse backgrounds to access global opportunities.
• Mr. Sidath Wettimuny, former Sri Lankan cricketer turned education advocate, drew on his experiences in both sport and policy reform to emphasise the importance of accessible opportunities. He also stressed the need to give students freedom of choice in pursuing their career paths, encouraging teachers and parents to support individuality rather than imposing predefined routes.
• Ms. Thaji Dias, principal dancer and lead teacher at the Chitrasena Dance Company, illustrated how traditional and contemporary dance practices can foster discipline, creativity and inclusivity through the arts.

Flinders Master of Education Programme

A key highlight of IFT 2025 was the introduction to the Flinders University Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Sri Lanka, to be delivered exclusively through Gateway Graduate School. The Programme is designed to meet the growing demand for advanced professional development among educators.

The programme offers three specialist streams Student Inclusion, Leadership in Education, and Digital Innovation & Artificial Intelligence in Education allowing students to customise their learning journey. With international recognition, flexible delivery, and strong local support, the M.Ed. promises to set a new benchmark for postgraduate education in Sri Lanka.

Applications are now open for the February 2026 intake, with early bird bursaries available. Graduates will be equipped to pursue leadership, curriculum design, policy, and specialist inclusion roles, equipping them to influence education both locally and globally.

Details on can be obtained by calling Lakisha on 0779256356 or Indrika on 0772256356 or by writing to info@gatewaygraduateschool.com

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Inclusive Classrooms: Teaching Every Child, Reaching Every Mind

This year’s theme, “Inclusive Classrooms: Teaching Every Child, Reaching Every Mind,” seeks to explore how educators can create learning environments that support the full spectrum of learners regardless of background, ability, or circumstance through innovation, empathy, and collaboration.

Theme Overview:

Today’s classrooms are more diverse than ever, presenting both challenges and extraordinary opportunities. The 2025 Forum will delve into how we can:

• Foster inclusion in learning environments that celebrate diversity and ensure every child feels seen, heard, and valued.
• Empower educators to adapt pedagogy, curriculum, and classroom strategies to meet a broad range of learning needs.
• Leverage educational technology and AI to promote equity, personalization, and student engagement—without compromising human connection.
• Champion social-emotional well-being and holistic development as integral to academic success.

IFT remains a first-of-its-kind initiative, open to all teachers from state, private, and international schools across Sri Lanka and the region. The Forum is driven by a mission to nurture world-class educators through global partnerships and shared expertise. It provides a dynamic platform to engage in professional dialogue, exchange pedagogical insights, and reflect on the evolving needs of education in the 21st century.

This year’s Forum aims to spark fresh conversations and catalyze real-world change, helping educators create truly inclusive, student-centered classrooms.

Featured Speakers:

Dr. Alberto Luis August Assistant Professor & Director of Teaching & Learning, University of Nottingham Malaysia – A seasoned educator and educational leader, Dr. August brings a global perspective to inclusive practice, educational leadership, and climate-conscious, child-centered learning.

Professor Gretchen Geng, Deputy Dean (Education), Flinders University – A trailblazer in digital play and early childhood innovation, Professor Geng’s work empowers teachers with XR tools and Universal Design for Learning strategies to engage every child.

Ms. Rasini Bandara, Psychologist & International Well-being Consultant – An advocate for mental health in education, Rasini will focus on the importance of well-being in classrooms—supporting emotional regulation, safety, and resilience for all learners.

Mr. Kushil Gunasekera, Founder, Foundation of Goodness – Through his grassroots work uplifting rural communities, Kushil underscores the role of values, ethics, and service in holistic, inclusive education for national development.

Distinguished Panelists:

Prof. Saumya Liyanage, Scholar-Practitioner & Former Dean, University of the Visual & Performing Arts – A leading figure in performance studies, Prof. Liyanage connects embodied learning, cultural expression, and social reconciliation to inclusive educational spaces.

Ms. Premila Paulraj, Director – Market Growth (South Asia), Pearson – With a focus on equity and access to international education, Premila shares how localized solutions can open global pathways for learners of all backgrounds.

Mr. Sidath Wettimuny, Former Sri Lankan Cricketer & National Education Advocate – A champion of equitable access in sport and education, Sidath draws on leadership in policy reform and grassroots development to inspire inclusive practices at scale.

Thaji Dias, Principal Dancer & Lead Teacher, Chitrasena Dance Company – A celebrated force in classical dance, Thaji blends embodied tradition with contemporary expression, fostering inclusive learning through movement, discipline, and artistic heritage.

Details on registrations can be obtained by calling  Indrika on 0772256356 | 011 2888 288 or Lakisha on 0779256356 or by writing to info@ift.lk .

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