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Institute of Human Resource Advancement Celebrates 50 Years of Transformative Education

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

The Institute of Human Resource Advancement (IHRA) of the University of Colombo commemorates a significant milestone: 50 years of unparalleled dedication to accessible, practical-oriented education for Sri Lanka's working population. Founded in 1971 as the Workers' Education Movement, IHRA has evolved into a national hub for higher education in human resource development, driven by the vision of Professor Osman Jayarathna and Dr. Kumari Jayawardhana. Over five decades, IHRA has consistently empowered working individuals through innovative education, fostering a socially responsible and skilled workforce that contributes to Sri Lanka's growth.

Key Takeaways:

  • IHRA began as the Workers' Education Movement in 1971, with 22 worker-students enrolled in a Special Degree in Development Studies at the University of Colombo.
  • By 1975, the movement had reached a new milestone, with 58 students graduating from the Bachelor of Development Studies program.
  • The Institute of Workers' Education (IWE) was formally established in 1975, and reconstituted under Ordinance No. 11 in 1979, giving it a strengthened academic and administrative structure.
  • IHRA secured a plot of land on Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo, and completed a dedicated institute building in 1990.
  • The Institute was renamed IHRA in 2006, reflecting a broader academic vision that emphasized professional development, human capital enhancement, and postgraduate education.
  • IHRA launched its first Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resource Advancement in 2007, and introduced Service Management (SMgt) courses in 2011.
  • The institute launched Bachelor of Labour Education (BLE) and Bachelor of Labour Management (BLM) degree programs in 2020, endorsed by the University Grants Commission (UGC).
  • IHRA has integrated advanced teaching methods, digital tools, and e-learning modules into its academic delivery, ensuring it remains current and flexible in its approach.
  • The Institute's academic staff comprises highly qualified and experienced lecturers, many of whom are recognized experts in fields like labour relations, economics, and education.

Statistics:

  • IHRA has 50 years of experience in providing accessible, practical-oriented education for Sri Lanka's working population.
  • Since its inception, IHRA has empowered thousands of working individuals through innovative education.
  • The Institute has a proud alumni base, with graduates contributing to national development in various sectors, including education, administration, security forces, private sector, and community leadership.
  • IHRA has updated its curricula to reflect real-world challenges, making it uniquely positioned to lead Sri Lanka in creating a knowledgeable, skilled, and socially responsible workforce.

Sources:

  • The Institute of Human Resource Advancement (IHRA) of the University of Colombo.
  • Professor Osman Jayarathna and Dr. Kumari Jayawardhana, founding visionaries of IHRA.
  • University Grants Commission (UGC), which endorsed IHRA's undergraduate programs.
  • Worker Education Movement, a pioneering initiative that laid the foundation for IHRA.
  • Ordinance No. 11, which reconstituted the Institute of Workers' Education (IWE) under IHRA's strengthened academic and administrative structure.

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