Victoria Central Graduate School, a pioneering institu- tion dedicated to shaping the future of higher education in Sri Lanka, marked a signifi- cant milestone at the recent held official launch of its flagship programme: the NCC International Foundation Diploma (IFD). The event, held at the Cinnamon Grand Colombo, was a vibrant gathering of academic leaders, industry experts, international university partners, par- ents, and students, all eager to celebrate the dawn of a new era in education.

The event began with a warm welcome from Mr. Siraj Hanes, Director of Victoria Central Graduate School, who set the tone for the evening by sharing the school’s vision. “At Victoria Central, we are com- mitted to providing globally recognised pathways that open doors for our stu- dents,” Hanes remarked. “The launch of the NCC International Foundation Diploma is not just about a qualifica- tion—it’s about creating opportunities for every student to thrive, whether they choose to study here in Sri Lanka or con- tinue their education abroad.”

Delivering the keynote address as the chief guest, Mr. Ravi Liyanage, Director and CEO of Janashakthi PLC, spoke pas- sionately on “The Role of Higher Education in Shaping Corporate Leadership.” recognise that 70% of Forbes Top 100 CEO’s hold MBA and 92% have tertiary education’ plays in develop- ing the leaders of tomorrow. Institutions like Victoria Central Graduate School are essential in equipping students with the knowledge, skills and qualifications they need to excel in competitive corporate landscape.”

Panalists

Hamzi Haniff, Education Programmes Manager at British Council, Sri Lanka, also addressed the audience, speaking on the broader impact of British education in Sri Lanka.” British education in Sri Lanka “British education has made a sig- nificant contribution to the development of Sri Lanka’s academic and professional landscape” Haniff said. Through interna- tionally recognised qualifications like NCC international Foundation Diploma, students are able to access a range of opportunities that prepare them for suc- cess both locally and globally”

An integral part of Victoria Central’s academic offerings, the NCC International Foundation Diploma pro- vides an alternative to traditional A Levels, enabling students to access over 80 universities worldwide. Mr. Zeyad Ahmed, Regional Manager for NCC Education (UK), highlighted the pro- gramme’s global acceptance and its flexi- bility across multiple disciplines. “The IFD is recognised by universities in the UK, Australia, Malaysia, and beyond,” Ahmed explained. “It equips students with essential academic and critical thinking skills that prepare them for pathways in Business, IT, Engineering, Finance, Design, and more. Our partner- ship with Victoria Central means that students here can now start their journey towards internationally recognised degrees right at home.”

Chief Guest Ravi Liyanage - Director CEO Janashakthi PLC.

One of the unique advantages of study- ing at Victoria Central Graduate School is the flexibility it offers. “Students who choose the IFD at Victoria Central can seamlessly progress to the first, second, and even third year of their degree right here in Sri Lanka,” Hanes added. “We currently offer complete degree pathways in Business and IT, allowing students to earn a full degree locally. Alternatively, students can choose to transfer abroad at any stage of their studies, giving them the freedom to shape their own education- al journey.”

Mr. Ahamed Miflal, University Partnerships Manager at APU Malaysia, emphasised the importance of such flexi- ble pathways in an increasingly glo- balised world. “Students today are seek- ing education that fits their personal goals and career ambitions,” he said. “Victoria Central’s model—where stu- dents can complete their degree locally or transfer abroad—empowers them to make the choices that are right for them.”

The evening’s atmosphere was one of excitement and optimism, as attendees explored booths showcasing Victoria Central’s curriculum, global university partners, and student support services. Faculty members and counsellors were on hand to answer questions, while pro- spective students mingled with alumni and industry professionals to get first- hand insights into the opportunities that await them.

Nicola Walsh, Academic Quality Advisor at Victoria Central, addressed the audience, underscoring the school’s commitment to academic excellence. “At Victoria Central, quality is at the heart of everything we do,” Walsh explained. “We’re dedicated to providing not just education, but a learning environment that nurtures critical thinkers, problem- solvers, and innovators who will excel on the global stage.”

Special Guest Speaker - Ms.Hamzi Haniff - Education Programmes Manager, British Council

The launch also featured a lively panel discussion with Mr. Basith Ashraf from Nottingham Trent University and Mr. Ahamed Miflal from APU Malaysia, who discussed the global pathways available to students through the NCC qualifica- tion. Both panelists emphasised the unique advantage that Victoria Central offers—allowing students to start locally, gain international recognition, and transfer abroad if and when they choose.

The event concluded with closing remarks from Mr. Hanes, who thanked all partners, guests, and students for their support. “Today’s launch is a testament to our vision of providing accessible, high-quality, and globally recognised edu- cation right here in Sri Lanka,” he said. “We look forward to welcoming students who are ready to take that next step towards their future.”

With its commitment to academic excellence, global partnerships, and flexi- ble study options, Victoria Central Graduate School is poised to become a beacon of higher education in Sri Lanka, empowering students to achieve their dreams—whether that means studying locally or taking their talents abroad.

For more information about Victoria Central Graduate School and the NCC International Foundation Diploma, please visit victoriacentral. org or contact +94770656321

Founder Managing Director Siraj Hanes