Gateway Group one of the largest educational organisational networks in Sri Lanka with a reputation of having high standards of education at all levels launched yet another exciting programme for the upliftment of teachers. With the advancement of Private and International Schools, teaching is emerging as an attractive career in Sri Lanka and the world over. In addition to being a rewarding career, teaching is considered by many as a profession that provides a good work-life balance. One of the main drawbacks for young aspirants in taking to teaching has so far been the lack of opportunities for career progress.

Gateway Graduate School (GGS), the higher education and professional development arm of the Gateway Group, has addressed this issue by offering teacher training and education qualifications. The most recent addition to its suite of Teaching qualifications is the Bachelor of Education (Hons) Degree, which is recognized by the University Grants Commission and approved by the Ministry of Education, Sri Lanka. Upon completion, students will be recognized by the Sri Lanka Qualification Framework (SLQF) at Level 6. Students will have the opportunity to gain practical experience at the network of Gateway and Springfield Colleges as well as Gateway’s group of Kindergartens – Seven Cs, where they will also be considered for employment.

The programme will commence in June 2024. This B.Ed. (Hons) Degree Programme was officially launched recently at the International Forum for Teachers (IFT) that was held at the BMICH for the fifth year. The IFT conference, themed ‘Inspiring Pupils, Empowering Teachers: Harnessing the Power of Tech’ had a participation of over 350 teachers from the state, private, and international schools of Sri Lanka. IFT’s mission is to assist in developing world-class teachers through global partnerships, collaboration, and dialogue.

The annual conference of the IFT offers delegates the opportunities to network, exchange best practices, and gain an in-depth understanding of the rapidly changing environments of school education from a global perspective. Mr. Sampath Thrimavithana – Chairman of ICT Industry Skills Council, Sri Lanka/Director Virtusa/Founder Sponge Global Learning, shared his thoughts on "The Future of Learning: Exploring Emerging Technologies in Education using Digital Tools for Innovative Instruction". Professor Pablo Munguia, Dean of Education, College of Education Psychology and Social Work, Flinders University, discussed “The Benefit of the New Normal: The Power and the Pitfalls for Education in the Online World. Dr. Beshan Kulapala - Co-Founder/Director/ CEO Cyrus EV Chargers & Research Scientist, revealed much on "The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Transforming Education, Virtual Reality, and Augmented Reality: Opening New Dimensions in Learning. Mr. Bathiya Jayakody - Managing Director - BNS Productions, shared his personal experiences on Revolutionising Aesthetic Education.

The panel discussion with Professor Deborah West - Vice President & Executive Dean, College of Education, Psychology and Social Work; Mr. Harsha Randeny - Country Manager for Microsoft Sri Lanka and Maldives; Mr. Santhush Weeraman - Managing Director at SGM Films Pvt Ltd and Mr. Kaushal Gunaratne – CIO & Co-founder UnifiedAR, continued the discussions sharing their views on the theme for the day. Prof Prasad Sathunga, Director General of the National Institute of Education Sri Lanka; disclosed some of the proposals being discussed on the educational reforms being drafted at present in Sri Lanka, during his address as the Chief Guest at the Forum.

He stressed the importance of embracing change and urged educators to observe instead of criticizing the changes that are being proposed for the betterment of future generations of the nation. Gateway Graduate School also offers the following qualifications:

• Pearson BTEC Level 5 HND in Early Childhood Education and Care
• Pearson BTEC Level 4 Professional Diploma in Teaching and Learning
• Pearson BTEC Level 5 Professional Diploma in Teaching and Educational Management
• Pearson BTEC Level 4 Professional Award in Soft Skills for Careers in Teaching (Duration - One Month)
• Pearson SRF BTEC Level 4 Professional Certificate in Teaching and Learning (Duration - Three Months)
• Cambridge Teaching Knowledge Test (TKT) for Teaching English as a Foreign Language (Duration - Three Months)
• Microsoft Certified Educator (MCE) certification validates that educators have the global educator technology literacy competencies needed to provide a rich, custom learning experience for students. MCE certification is ideal for educators in training, faculty of teacher training colleges, and in-service educators (Duration – One Month) Further details can be obtained by calling Rasika at 0772256356, 0777060157, 11 2695103 or by writing to [email protected]