Sri Lanka’s first-ever double degree launched as Southern Cross University and NSBM Green University deepen ties

COLOMBO, 26 October 2026 Southern Cross University (Australia), in partnership with NSBM Green University, today launched the first and only double degree ever offered in Sri Lanka a four-year programme in which students graduate with both a Bachelor of Business and a Bachelor of Information Technology. The programme will be delivered locally at NSBM Green University and opens for enrolment ahead of its 2027 commencement.

The launch marked by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the two universities was graced by the Hon. Eranga Weeraratne, Deputy Minister of Digital Economy, and His Excellency Mr Matthew Duckworth, Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, underscoring the programme’s significance for the nation’s digital-economy ambitions and for the education partnership between Australia and Sri Lanka. The event also formed part of NSBM Green University’s 10th anniversary celebrations.

Designed for the careers of the future, the double degree equips graduates with the rare combination of business acumen and advanced technology skills from data and artificial intelligence to cyber security that employers increasingly demand. Students study under the distinctive Southern Cross Model (fewer units at a time and no final examinations), with a paid industry internship and the opportunity to attend an Australian summer school, graduating with a globally recognised Australian qualification without leaving Sri Lanka.

This is a proud milestone for both universities and for Sri Lankan students. We are bringing a world-class Australian degree directly to Colombo giving talented young people a global qualification, and the business and technology skills the future will reward, here at home.

Professor Tyrone Carlin, Vice-Chancellor, Southern Cross University  

In our 10th anniversary year, we are delighted to offer Sri Lanka’s first double degree. It reflects NSBM’s commitment to world-class, future-ready education and to opening global opportunities for our students.

Professor E. A. Weerasinghe, Vice-Chancellor, NSBM Green University

Sri Lanka’s future prosperity will be built on a digitally skilled workforce. A programme that equips our young people with both technology and business expertise, here at home, advances our national digital-economy agenda, and I warmly welcome this partnership.

Hon. Eranga Weeraratne, Deputy Minister of Digital Economy  

Bringing Sri Lanka’s first double degree to life has been a labour of love. Our goal was simple but ambitious to give talented Sri Lankan students a world-class Australian qualification, and the combined business and technology skills the future demands, without leaving home.

Professor Darshana Sedera, Associate Dean (International & Engagement), Southern Cross University who pioneered the initiative