Quality assurance is described as an ongoing, continuous process of analyzing, monitoring, and enhancing the quality of a higher education system, institution, or program by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The University of Peradeniya, with well-established traditions and practices, is fully cognisant of this requirement, has adopted systematic approaches to assure quality in all its functions: academic, general and financial administration, and is committed to continuous evaluation of quality initiatives and quality improvement. For this purpose, the University relies on self-articulated standards and best practices advocated by external quality assurance and accreditation agencies. It operates through a robust Internal Quality Assurance (IQA) mechanism.

The university’s commitment to QA and its outcomes at all levels are governed by a well-structured mechanism led by the University Council. Quality assurance in the University operates through Council Sub-Committees, the Senate, the Senate Standing Committee on Quality Assurance (CQA) and other Senate Sub-Committees, Boards of Management and Boards of Studies of the postgraduate institutes, Faculty Boards, Boards of Management of Centres and several standing and ad-hoc committees.

The systems and mechanisms cover the entire process of planning, approving, implementing, monitoring & reviewing, and modifying academic, administrative and management procedures. Thereby, the University ensure that it continues to improve the learning, work and living experience of the university community by propelling all academic and administrative entities towards attaining the highest level of performance. The Internal Quality Assurance Cells of every entity connected to the CQA form a rich internal QA network. The Management Committee of the CQA-the Senate Standing Committee on QA, which the Vice-Chancellor chairs and addresses all matters related to QA.

Compiling this manual fulfils a long-felt need to provide a reference guide to the QA activities. I hope this e-manual will be reviewed regularly to include the new developments in the QA activities to ensure their efficient and effective operations.

I congratulate and thank the Director of CQA, Prof R Pallegama, and his team for their efforts in publishing this manual.

Professor M.D. Lamawansa

Vice-Chancellor

University of Peradeniya

January 2023