Open & Distance Learning Unit

Thematic area: Bridging the gap of- unequal educational opportunities to the optional education in Open and Distance Learning.

Rationalisation:

Open and Distance Education has democratised education by making it accessible to diverse populations while also advancing technology-driven learning. Open and Distance Education (ODE) has had a significant impact across various dimensions, particularly in expanding access to learning, improving educational equity and fostering lifelong learning. It allows learners in remote or underserved areas to access quality education, breaking barriers of the distance and location. Also the ODE provides flexibility for students who cannot attend traditional institutions due to work, family obligations, or other commitments and often eliminates the costs associated with onsite session, making education more affordable.

In pursuit of the aforementioned goal, the Sri Lanka Foundation plans to establish the Open and Distance Learning  Unit to serve a large number of students with fewer physical resources reducing per-student costs. This division is currently conducting a number of IT and HR programmes online, as well as one open distance project conducted with the aid of UNDP for local government officers.

Academic Staff