NSBM Green University A Landmark Project Shaping the Nation through Modern Higher Education

NSBM Green University, with a remarkable journey spanning over a decade, stands as a landmark project in modern higher education in Sri Lanka. As NSBM celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2026, the university marks a journey of rapid growth, emerging as one of the country’s most prominent higher education centres with an unmatched and forward-looking approach, within a relatively short period of time.

At a time when the country faced significant challenges in expanding higher education opportunities, NSBM was founded to address this national need. One of its key objectives was to provide students with a true university experience, an opportunity that many previously sought through overseas education or through private institutions operating within limited facilities. Through its modern campus, comprehensive academic offerings, and vibrant student life, NSBM has been able to provide students a true university experience that reflects the standards and experience of an international university within Sri Lanka.

Established as a bold and transformative vision in 2016, NSBM Green University has made remarkable progress in contributing significantly to national development through education and shaping the nation’s future through a vibrant academic community. Today, the university has produced more than 23,000 graduates and currently nurtures over 13,000 students across five faculties, offering more than 70 internationally recognized degree programmes in diverse disciplines. 

The NSBM premises, initially developed under Phase I, has now expanded through three additional phases, extending across a total land area of approximately 70 acres in Pitipana, Homagama. This expansion reflects the university’s rapid growth and its long-term vision of creating comprehensive opportunities for higher education.

The university has also emerged as a leading hub for transnational education in Sri Lanka and the region. NSBM fosters partnerships with globally top-ranked universities, including University of Plymouth, UK; Victoria University, Australia, Southern Cross University, Australia and American University, USA. These collaborations open pathways for students to obtain internationally recognized foreign university degrees locally, within a modern and internationally competitive campus environment, without having to leave the country.

Beyond academics, NSBM provides extensive opportunities for personality development and essential skill-building. The university hosts over 50 student-led clubs and societies, creating a vibrant platform for leadership, creativity, and community engagement. These activities are supported by an ultra-modern university complex designed with a strong focus on sustainability and student-centred learning, providing the facilities and environment necessary for the development of globally competitive graduates. 

A future-focused career guidance mechanism and a comprehensive graduate development model led by NFORCE, the in-house career guidance centre, further strengthen the university’s mission to prepare students for dynamic global careers.

At the heart of NSBM’s remarkable journey is Prof. E. A. Weerasinghe, the Founding Vice Chancellor of NSBM Green University. A distinguished academic, administrator, and visionary leader, Prof. Weerasinghe has been the transformative force behind the vision that established and continues to guide NSBM in shaping modern higher education in Sri Lanka. With decades of experience in university leadership and institutional development, he has played a pivotal role in steering the university towards excellence and innovation.

In recognition of his outstanding leadership and visionary contribution to the transformation of Sri Lanka’s higher education landscape, Prof. Weerasinghe was honoured with the prestigious “CEO of the Year 2025” award by the Global CEO Forum. The award was presented at a distinguished ceremony held at the Cinnamon Grand Colombo on February 26, 2026, attended by prominent leaders and distinguished professionals.

The “CEO of the Year 2025” award marks an important milestone in the distinguished career of Prof. Weerasinghe and stands as a powerful recognition of the visionary leadership that has shaped NSBM Green University into one of Sri Lanka’s most dynamic centres of learning.