The Postgraduate Institute of English (PGIE) at the Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL) will hold its first-ever International Conference on Languages, Literatures and Linguistics (ICLLL) 2024, an academic event aimed at shaping the future of English studies in Sri Lanka. This event is set to take place on December 12 at the Open University premises. This is a significant milestone in PGIE’s mission to enhance English education in Sri Lanka, a task it has been committed to since its inception in 2005 as the only state institution in Sri Lanka dedicated to postgraduate-level English studies.
Director of PGIE, Dr. Romola Rassool said, “The PGIE has been at the forefront of providing high-quality education for teachers of English Language and Literature since 2005. This international conference marks a new chapter in our commitment to advancing English studies in Sri Lanka.” The conference aims to unite scholars, educators, education administrators and students to explore the theme ‘The Role of English in a Plurilingual World’.
The keynote address will be delivered by a renowned expert in plurilingualism, Prof. Gail Prasad, from the Faculty of Education at York University, Canada. This inaugural event not only highlights PGIE’s position as the only institution for postgraduate-level English education in Sri Lanka but also celebrates its 20th year as the leading academic institution in the field.
Professional collaboration
The ICLLL 2024 is a response to the growing demand for English Language and Literature from professionals in Sri Lanka for a platform to network and exchange ideas. The conference will feature around 40 academic presentations from educators representing state universities, non-state higher education institutions, Government and private schools and teacher training organisations across the country. The conference will also include discussions on contemporary English-related sub-themes such as World English, Translingualism, Antiracism and Digital Literacies, making it a unique platform to unite experts in language, literature and linguistics.
Since its establishment in 2005, the PGIE has been dedicated to providing high-quality postgraduate-level courses for teachers of English Language and Literature.
The Institute offers two Master’s programs, two postgraduate diploma programs and a range of short courses tailored to meet various educational and professional needs. These courses, including academic writing and content and language-integrated learning are designed to enhance teacher capacities and support students and teachers in their academic pursuits.
The PGIE is recognised as a leading centre for the Cambridge Teaching Knowledge Test (TKT) examinations. The Institute also conducts monthly ‘Research and Reflection’ seminars, providing a platform for continuous professional development.
Platform for Professional Development
The PGIE’s commitment to quality education is exemplified by its team of highly qualified and experienced staff. This team includes both internal faculty and visiting lecturers from state and non-state universities and international institutions, thus ensuring that students receive the highest standard of education possible.
In addition to academic presentations, the ICLLL 2024 will feature a panel discussion led by prominent Sri Lankan experts in Languages and Literature. Participants will receive e-certificates and have ample opportunity to network with international and local experts. This event welcomes all interested individuals from across the country. The registration and payment links for this conference are available on PGIE’s official Facebook and Instagram pages.
PGIE’s vision for the future
As the only postgraduate-level institution for English studies in Sri Lanka, the PGIE continues to expand its academic programs. In 2025, the Institute plans to extend its flagship MA in TESL program to international students, aligning its curriculum with global trends in English Language teaching. Dr. Rassool said, “We aim to bring the best of English studies to a wider audience, both in Sri Lanka and overseas.”
The ICLLL 2024 is organised in response to the demand from English language and literature professionals for a networking platform. This conference provides a unique opportunity for language educators, researchers and enthusiasts to engage in a global dialogue on plurilingualism, contributing to the future of English Studies both locally and internationally.
