ANC Campus ties up with Adelaide University to offer cost-saving study pathway

• New partnership offers cost-effective route to Australian degrees
• Over 23,000 Sri Lankans are currently studying in Australia

By Amira Cader

ANC Campus has partnered with Adelaide University to introduce a new academic pathway for Sri Lankan students, providing a streamlined and cost-effective route to pursue higher education in Australia.

The partnership was officially launched at Cinnamon Lakeside recently, marking a significant milestone in strengthening longstanding education ties between Sri Lanka and Australia.

Under this pathway, students can begin their university-level studies at ANC Campus in Sri Lanka before progressing to Adelaide University in Australia, subject to academic and English language requirements. The program enables students to transition smoothly into an international academic environment while significantly reducing costs.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was also formally exchanged between ANC Campus Chairman Dr. Jagath Alwis and Adelaide University International Business Development Manager Jackson Jaensch.

The event was attended by representatives from ANC Campus, Adelaide University, and the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), alongside school principals and invited guests, highlighting the continued importance of Australia-Sri Lanka education collaboration.

Dr. Alwis stated that students who complete ANC’s Australian Diploma program will be eligible to enter the second year of selected degree programs at Adelaide University. 

“By completing the first year locally through ANC’s Australian Diploma program, students can save up to Rs. 13 million when considering tuition and living expenses per year. The pathway spans key disciplines including Business, Engineering, Information Technology, and Science,” he said.

ANC Campus Chief Executive Officer Dayan D.L. Fernando said the collaboration provides Sri Lankan students with a credible and well-supported pathway into Australian higher education.

“For over two decades, ANC has worked with international university partners to support students in their global education journey with the right academic preparation and guidance. This partnership with Adelaide University offers a clearer route to an Australian degree and gives parents greater confidence in the pathway their children are choosing,” he said.

Fernando also emphasised the importance of proper guidance in international education decisions, noting that selecting the right pathway is key to student success.

Jaensch described the MoU as a significant milestone that it is among the first of its kind following the formation of Adelaide University through the merger of the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia. 

He added that the University is currently ranked 82nd globally in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and expressed confidence that the partnership would create new opportunities for Sri Lankan students to build successful futures through international education.

Austrade Director – Trade and Investment (Education) Sandy Seneviratne noted that education ties between Australia and Sri Lanka date back 75 years, reflecting a strong and enduring partnership. 

She highlighted that approximately 23,000 Sri Lankan students are currently studying in Australia, while nearly 200,000 Sri Lankans now reside there—many of whom began their journeys through education in pursuit of better opportunities and long-term success.

The initiative reflects growing demand among Sri Lankan students for accessible and cost-effective international education opportunities, while reinforcing Australia’s position as a preferred destination for higher studies.

- Pix by Shehan Gunasekara