Tuesday Mar 03, 2026
Tuesday Mar 03, 2026
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CICRA Holdings Group Director, CEO Boshan Dayaratne (right) receives the certification from SQA International Regional Manager Mark Hill. SQA International Regional Manager Margret Curran (extreme right) CICRA Campus Head of Academics Tharaka Soysa are also present
By Amira Cader
CICRA Campus, a pioneer in cybersecurity and IT education in Sri Lanka for over 15 years, recently launched its partnership with Qualification Scotland after being approved as a recognised centre, marking a significant step in expanding internationally regulated cybersecurity and computing qualifications for Sri Lankan students.
The accreditation enables CICRA Campus to deliver two prestigious Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) Advanced Diplomas — in Cyber Security and Computing (Specialised in Networking). These programs are recognised as equivalent to the first two years of a university degree pathway, providing students with a strong academic foundation respected worldwide.
The launch event held at the BMICH yesterday, brought together international representatives, academic leaders and students to highlight new pathways in advanced cyber education, including diploma programs, flexible study modes and overseas progression opportunities.
CICRA Group Director and CEO Boshan Dayaratne described the approval as a milestone reflecting the institution’s long-standing commitment to accessible, high-quality education.
“This approval is a testament to our 15-year legacy of pioneering cybersecurity education and our unwavering commitment to quality that is also accessible, it validates our mission to bring globally benchmarked, regulatory backed education to Sri Lanka on a foundation of affordability and flexibility with model integrates academic study, professional certifications and industry immersion.”
Dayaratne further noted: “CICRA doesn’t just award qualifications, we build careers. Our integrated approach combining an SQA-accredited academic foundation, mandatory global certifications and guaranteed internship experience ensures our graduates are work-ready professionals from day one.”
SQA is globally recognised for its rigourous standards and industry-relevant curriculum, while Qualification Scotland ensures the integrity and quality assurance of these awards across approved centres internationally.
SQA International Regional Manager Margret Curran said the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to building globally competitive digital talent. “Our goal is to ensure students gain qualifications that are internationally respected and aligned with industry needs and such partnerships help create clearer academic and professional mobility for learners”.
She also noted that the approval means Sri Lankan students can now access UK-regulated qualifications locally with globally benchmarked standards.
CICRA Campus Head of Academics Tharaka Soysa emphasised the institution’s focus on practical skills and employability. “We are committed to delivering an academic experience that blends strong theoretical grounding with industry-relevant competencies in cyber security and networking,” he said.
The programs provide structured learning routes for students after Advanced Level examinations, with both 18-month full-time and 24-month part-time pathways, alongside hybrid delivery combining campus-based and online learning.
SQA International Regional Manager Mark Hill said the initiative would help students access recognised qualifications while studying locally. “Providing access to globally benchmarked education within Sri Lanka opens doors for students to progress confidently into international degree pathways and careers,” he said.
HILL also highlighted the accelerating global demand for cybersecurity professionals and the urgent need for Sri Lanka to strengthen its digital workforce and that the collaboration will further strengthen faculty engagement with industry, enhance student support services and expand links with universities in the United Kingdom and other countries for academic progression.
The new programs are built on CICRA’s three pillars: affordability, flexibility and accessibility include progression opportunities to complete a Bachelor’s degree at globally recognised partner universities.
Students will also gain at least four internationally recognised professional certifications from organisations such as CompTIA, Cisco and EC-Council, alongside a minimum one-year industry internship through partnerships with leading Sri Lankan companies, ensuring practical experience and career readiness.
The event concluded with a call for closer cooperation between education providers, industry and students to ensure Sri Lanka’s workforce remains competitive in an increasingly technology-driven global economy.
