Education is the foundation upon which sustainable development is built, and this is why the United Nations has placed Quality Education (SDG 4) at the heart of the global agenda. The goal emphasizes not only access to schooling, but also the importance of ensuring that education is inclusive, equitable, and transformative. It calls for learning opportunities that nurture creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, and civic responsibility, enabling individuals to contribute meaningfully to society.

SDG 4 also recognizes that education must be a lifelong process beginning with early childhood care and extending through higher education, vocational training, and skills development for all age groups. By strengthening literacy and numeracy, bridging gender gaps, and addressing barriers faced by marginalized communities, SDG 4 works to dismantle cycles of poverty and inequality.

Ultimately, achieving Quality Education empowers individuals, fosters innovation, and provides the knowledge base necessary to address global challenges such as climate change, economic instability, and social injustice. It is not just about preparing people for jobs, but about preparing them for life as engaged, responsible global citizens.

Free education in Sri Lanka, introduced under the visionary leadership of C.W.W. Kannangara, has been a cornerstone of the nation’s progress and social equity. As one of the country’s leading state universities, the University of Kelaniya embodies this vision by providing students with tuition-free access to higher education.

Through this policy, UOK has opened doors for thousands of students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds, ensuring that talent and ambition not financial means determine academic success. This system has nurtured a generation of skilled professionals, researchers, and leaders who contribute to national development and global knowledge.

By upholding the principle of free education, the University of Kelaniya continues to promote equal opportunities, social mobility, and inclusive growth, reflecting the lasting impact of Kannangara’s educational reforms.

As a leading higher education institution in Sri Lanka, the University of Kelaniya plays a vital role in advancing the principles of SDG 4. The university is committed to creating an inclusive and equitable academic environment where opportunities for learning extend beyond traditional classrooms. Through innovative curricula, modern teaching methods, and strong emphasis on research and critical inquiry, UOK equips students with the skills and values needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

The university also promotes lifelong learning, offering diverse academic programs, professional development opportunities, and outreach initiatives that serve both the campus community and society at large. By prioritizing accessibility, gender equity, and sustainability within its educational framework, UOK ensures that its graduates are not only knowledgeable, but also socially responsible citizens prepared to address national and global challenges.

In this way, the University of Kelaniya continues to strengthen Sri Lanka’s higher education landscape while contributing directly to the achievement of Quality Education (SDG 4) on a global scale.

Sustainability-Related Degree Programs

B.Sc. (Hons.) in Environmental Conservation and Management 

B.A. (Hons.) in Development Studies 

The M.Sc. in Environmental Management, offered by the Department of Zoology and Environmental Management, Faculty of Science, prepares students to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable development. The programme equips graduates with the skills needed for careers in government, corporate sectors, and consultancies, focusing on environmental management. It also enhances the professional capabilities of managers and encourages research in environmental management.