The Vice Chancellor of the University of Colombo, Senior Professor (Chair) H. D. Karunarathne announced the launch of its newest addition, the Department of Hospitality and Leisure Management (HLM) of the Faculty of Management and Finance. According to the Vice Chancellor, this milestone marks a significant advancement in specialised hospitality education in Sri Lanka. Originally established in 2015 as a specialisation under the Department of Marketing, HLM was developed in partnership with industry leaders to provide students with both theoretical insights and practical skills in hospitality and leisure management. This is the first Hospitality and Tourism Program offered to Undergraduate students by the University under the Bachelor of Business Administration Program of the Management Faculty.
“The Department of Hospitality and Leisure Management is now the Faculty’s 8th department,” said Professor Nihal Hennayake, Dean of the Faculty of Management and Finance. “This transition from specialisation to a Department highlights the growth, success, and increasing demand for skilled professionals in the hospitality and tourism sector. At the Faculty of Management and Finance, we are committed to delivering quality, industry-driven education, and the establishment of HLM broadens our mission to produce highly competent graduates ready to make impactful contributions to the industry.”
With this new Department, students will have access to an enriched curriculum designed to address the needs of a dynamic global market. The Department of Hospitality and Leisure Management will offer a broader range of courses, covering cutting-edge topics such as sustainable tourism, front office management, food and beverage management, and event management. These courses aim to equip students with a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical expertise, preparing them to thrive in competitive local and international environments. Through hands-on learning experiences, including internships and industry partnerships, students will gain essential real-world skills to seamlessly transition from academia to industry.
Professor Maduka Udunuwara, the founding head of the Department, emphasized the department’s holistic approach to education. “Our curriculum is designed to provide students with both foundational knowledge and advanced skills,” said Professor Udunuwara. “Through coursework, hands-on projects, and internships, our students gain practical experience and a comprehensive understanding of the hospitality sector. We are committed to fostering close collaboration with the industry to ensure our program remains relevant and responsive to its needs, while also offering mentorship, by collaborating with the industry, to help guide students throughout their journey. Our values of collaboration, innovation, and excellence will empower students to make the most of the resources and opportunities available to them. Together, we look forward to contributing to the growth and sustainability of this essential industry, both locally and globally.”
The official launch of the Department of Hospitality and Leisure Management will take place on November 21, 2024. This celebration will honour the department’s legacy and vision for the future, featuring keynote addresses. The event will welcome esteemed alumni, industry leaders, and faculty members, reinforcing the university’s commitment to building a robust professional network within the tourism and hospitality industry.Prospective students and industry professionals are warmly invited to attend the event to learn more about the unique opportunities offered by the Department of Hospitality and Leisure Management. The University of Colombo remains dedicated to nurturing future leaders who will drive innovation, sustainability, and excellence in the hospitality industry.
