For over half a century, Flinders University has stood as a beacon of remarkable achievement, characterised by pioneering research, a commitment to excellence in education, and a profound positive influence on the communities they engage with.

At the heart of Flinders lies a culture where inspiration creates innovation. The robust network of external partnerships fosters dynamism, enabling the university to transcend barriers and craft innovative solutions for the challenges ahead. The mission is clear: to effect change, transform lives, and contribute to shaping a better world through enterprising initiatives.

Flinders University Industry Engagement and Awards Night

Flinders University Industry Engagement and Awards was held on the 23rd of November at Shangri-La hotel, Colombo. The event’s objectives were to network with the Flinders University, Government of Australia and local industry partners. Students’ special achievements were also celebrated with awards. The event was attended by H.E Paul Stephens, High Commissioner to Sri Lanka and Dr. Monica Kennedy. Senior Trade and Investment Commissioner, Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) also attended the event.

Flinders University officials included Sebastian Raneskold, Vice-President and Pro Vice-Chancellor (International), Professor Alistair Rendell – Vice President and Executive Dean, College of Science and Engineering, Professor Deborah West – Vice President and Executive Dean College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Matt Schultz – Director International Recruitment, Bill Damachis – Director International Partnerships and Kate Dalwood – Director International Marketing of Study Adelaide.

Mr. Scultz inaugurated the event. He stated that the event was a reflection of the universities ambition and commitment towards investment in the region and particularly in Sri Lanka. “Another example of our commitment is the appointment of a representative in Sri Lanka, as well as in other parts including Bangladesh and Pakistan” he said.

H.E. Paul Stephens addressed the gathering and congratulated Flinders on hosting the event. “Bringing together various partners from around the region is very positive, especially with regard to the economic difficulties Sri Lanka has faced and in view of the importance of the tourism sector in helping Sri Lanka recover. Sri Lanka is looking to become a hub for conferences and events like this” he stated. He added that in terms of education, Australia and Sri Lanka have enjoyed a long-standing partnership since the 1950s. In Sri Lanka, there are over 30 Australian institutes that have partnerships with Sri Lankan universities, and two have opened standalone campuses. “In Sri Lanka, as is the case globally, Australia enjoys a strong reputation for quality curricula and student experience, and Flinders is one of those institutions. Flinders is ranked in the top 2% of universities globally and number one in postgraduate studies in Australia. Sri Lankan students are known for their hard work and strong contribution to university life in Australia” he added.

In his address, he also expressed the anticipation of broadening the bilateral relationship across multiple domains. This encompassed collaborative efforts aimed at mitigating climate change and assisting Sri Lanka in achieving its ambitious target of reaching 70% renewable energy in the grid by 2030. He highlighted the strategic advantage presented by Sri Lanka’s position as a pivotal shipping hub between the East and West. Additionally, there was a commitment to increasing Australian investment in Sri Lanka, with specific emphasis on sectors such as resources and energy.

“In Australia, the Sri Lankan students will find a very welcoming society, fantastic lifestyle but most important, a good education – which is what Australian universities provide. Sri Lankan students fit very well into the Australian universities, but also in the broader society” he said.

Thereafter, Dr. Kennedy spoke to the crowd and made special mention about the friendliness of Flinders and the warm welcoming community in the impeccable surrounding. “I often think of Flinders as Koalas and quality!” she quipped, adding that it shouldn’t however distract us from Flinders being all about high quality and attracts the very best from all around the world. “Australia and Sri Lanka are neighbours, separated by nothing but the large ocean” she added. Australia is home to 150,000 Sri Lankans at the moment. “Australia only has 43 universities, 3 are in the top 20, 9 in the top 100 and all but a handful of Australian universities are in the top 500. Flinders University holds its place strongly in this league of high-quality universities.”

“We are here to make new partnerships, revive old partnerships and look at what Finders can offer in Sri Lanka and to students back in Adelaide” stated Mr. Sebastian Raneskold. “Sri Lankan students come to us and do extremely well” he also added that there is a growth of 192% in Sri Lankan students from the previous year. This is reflective of not only the post-pandemic era, but also reflective of the work done in Sri Lanka as well as word of mouth from Sri Lankan students already at the university.

The event was made memorable with numerous dance acts, scrumptious food and fireworks that brightened the night sky.

Flinders University South Asia Partner Retreat

The South Asian partner retreat held at Avani Kalutara from the 24th to the 26th of November was a momentous event, as Adelaide partners from Sri Lanka (23), Nepal (12), Pakistan (12), and Bangladesh (15) came together for networking and knowledge sharing. The retreat commenced with a gala welcome dinner, after which the next day was spent at an informative and interactive conference, in which Flinders senior staff shared insights about the expected change of education landscape in Adelaide South Australia, and how to capitalize on opportunities together. Participants were awarded certificates of appreciation, and also engaged in competitions that resulted in being awarded country specific awards.

Special mention must be made of the updates shared on Flinders, including the new city campus in the heart of the Adelaide city. Surrounded by key arts, business, sports and government institutions, Flinders at Festival Plaza sits at the epicentre of Adelaide’s most vibrant and connected cultural hub. The custom designed building will accommodate 7000 students across its eight floors.

It was also reiterated that Flinders is the only university to have an in-built pathway provider in South Australia.
The participants also enjoyed fun team building games such as a tower building competition using spaghetti that challenge their creative thinking and analytical skills, as well as exciting water sports before concluding the retreat.