Southern Cross University-NSBM Green University launch offshore degree partnership

Inspire over 340 students at CEO Pitch Fest 2025 in Colombo and Kandy
Southern Cross University (Australia) and NSBM Green University (Sri Lanka) have entered into a groundbreaking partnership, officially signed on October 24, 2025, to deliver offshore programmes that will enable Sri Lankan students to earn Australian degrees locally at NSBM — without the need to relocate to Australia.
This landmark collaboration brings together Australian academic excellence and Sri Lankan accessibility, offering world-class degrees in business, IT, health and allied disciplines.
To celebrate the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship driving this partnership, Southern Cross University and NSBM Green University jointly hosted Southern Cross University CEO Pitch Fest 2025 in Kandy and Colombo, engaging more than 340 high school students from across the country.
Held at ESU Uni, Kandy on October 27, with over 100 participants and at the CIMA Auditorium, Colombo on October 28, with nearly 240 students, the two events showcased the creativity, leadership and innovation of Sri Lanka’s next generation. The initiative was organised in partnership with Chokolaate, whose exceptional event management and creative direction ensured a seamless experience.
Each event opened with the Sri Lankan and Australian National Anthems, followed by the lighting of the traditional oil lamp, symbolising unity, wisdom and new beginnings.
The keynote address was delivered by Southern Cross University Business, Law and Arts Faculty Associate Dean International and Engagement Professor Darshana Sedera. 
Speaking on ‘Digital Entrepreneurship – Opportunities and Caveats’, Professor Sedera emphasised the transformative role of innovation.
“Digital entrepreneurship is no longer a choice but a necessity. The future belongs to those who can innovate responsibly and create sustainable value for their communities. Southern Cross University is proud to nurture this spirit globally through our partnership with NSBM.”
The Grand Challenge Workshop, led by renowned transformational speaker and TEDx coach Mannsi Agrawal, saw student teams present five-minute pitches followed by interactive Q&A sessions with the judging panel comprising Professor Sedera, Agrawal and Southern Cross University Regional Manager South Asia Subhi Pradhan.
“What impressed me most was the authenticity and courage these students displayed,” said Agrawal. 
“They didn’t just pitch ideas — they pitched possibilities. Leadership starts with curiosity and confidence and today’s students embodied that perfectly.”
Reflecting on the collaboration, Pradhan shared, “The CEO Pitch Fest is more than a competition — it’s a bridge connecting aspiration and opportunity. Through this partnership, Sri Lankan students can now experience an Australian education right here at NSBM while developing future-ready skills in leadership, innovation, and collaboration.”
Southern Cross University CEO Pitch Fest 2025 exemplifies SCU’s vision for transnational education — bringing global learning experiences to students locally and equipping them with the mindset and capabilities to thrive in the future.