Wittenborg Representatives Strengthen School’s Network in Sri Lanka

Dulsha Fernandes and Lasantha De Silva Meet Prospective Partners and Students in Colombo

Wittenborg Head of Operations Lasantha De Silva and Manager of Student Finance Dulsha Fernandes recently visited Sri Lanka to promote the school to student agencies and prospective students. 

From 12 to 19 July, the two representatives attended a series of meetings in the capital, Colombo. Among them were two open days organised by student agencies Aspirations Education and Eduko Pathways. Additionally, Fernandes and De Silva visited three higher education institutions to explore possible future partnerships with Wittenborg: York Graduate Campus, British College of Applied Studies – BCAS and Asiri Academy of Health Sciences. The trip also involved various meetings with students and agents. 

According to Fernandes, the possibility of becoming permanent residents in the Netherlands is a major point of attraction for Sri Lankan students. “When compared to other major migration destinations, such as Canada, Australia and New Zealand, the Netherlands has a fairly simple immigration process, with straightforward and supportive services. Many people in Sri Lanka are seeking more opportunities and a better quality of life, which can be found in the Netherlands, and the high level of English fluency among the Dutch is a plus for potential candidates.”

She adds that Wittenborg’s multiple intakes per year provide students with greater flexibility and convenience. Moreover, the school’s international and diverse environment ensures that its students feel welcome from the start of their journey.  

De Silva highlights that technological advancement, innovation in education and a focus on sustainability and research in the Dutch education system are other reasons mentioned by prospective students for choosing to study in the Netherlands. He also observes that the discussions with agents and higher education institutions were fruitful and helped outline future partnerships for Wittenborg. 

Both representatives express their happiness and pride in being part of Wittenborg, pointing out that the institution fosters an international and open-minded community. “Wittenborg walks the talk, so it is very easy to talk about what it offers. This also conveys a sense of credibility to the agents and helps gain their long-term trust. Overall, education greatly contributes to people’s lives, and we are very satisfied to have the opportunity to help them find their path,” Fernandes concludes.  

WUP 29/08/2024 
by Ulisses Sawczuk 
©WUAS Press