British Council supports sector growth through TNE Quality Assurance workshops

The British Council in Sri Lanka concluded a four-day capacity-building workshop series on 30 May, focused on strengthening quality assurance in transnational education (TNE). Over 100 senior academics, quality specialists, and administrators took part, marking a key step toward ensuring consistent, high-quality delivery of UK-affiliated programmes in Sri Lanka.

Led by Dr. Jenny Cann (UK QAA) and Krisztina Ford (International QA Specialist), the sessions equipped TNE providers with practical frameworks for programme design, institutional governance, and quality enhancement aligned to global standards.

The workshops covered the full TNE lifecycle, from building partnerships and curriculum design to assessment, student voice, and governance. The final day tackled emerging challenges, such as digital learning, AI, and the complexity of managing global partnerships.

With Sri Lanka being the second-largest host of UK TNE globally (60,000+ enrolments), the initiative was well-received, and addressed sector needs identified in a British Council–Times Higher Education study, particularly on transparency, data practices, and capacity building.

Participants too reported tangible takeaways. “The focus on embedding employability in curriculum design was a game-changer,” said Dr. Krishani Anuradha Jayasinghe of Saegis Campus. “We’re already planning internal workshops.” Others, like Mary Lanshiya of BIET, noted the sessions helped clarify their strategic direction with UK partners.

Furthermore, the workshops created space for cross-sector engagement, drawing input from academics, administrators, and regulators alike. “The diversity made discussions richer,” commented Pavithra Wickramasuriya from NIBM. A LinkedIn group for ongoing collaboration was proposed and highly favoured.

Facilitators were praised for their practical insights and ability to contextualise global best practices. “Their clarity and openness made complex topics accessible,” said Thilini Hettiarachchi. Dr. Cann noted the strong commitment to quality: “There’s real potential here. Continued collaboration will be key to strengthening Sri Lanka’s TNE sector.”

Orlando Edwards, Country Director of the British Council in Sri Lanka, noted that the workshops are part of a broader strategy to continue to support quality and inclusion in higher education.