Edith Cowan University and Edith Cowan College Celebrate Academic Excellence at the ECU Academic Excellence Awards 2026
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The ECU Academic Excellence Awards 2026 was held on March 6th at the Grand Monarch Hotel, bringing together the distinguished academic community of Edith Cowan University (ECU) Sri Lanka and Edith Cowan College (ECC) for an evening dedicated to recognising dedication, commitment, and excellence in teaching. The event served as a meaningful tribute to the lecturers and academics whose contributions continue to shape the academic journey of students and uphold the high standards of education within the ECU and ECC community.
Edith Cowan University Sri Lanka stands as the first international university in Sri Lanka, offering students the opportunity to experience top-quality, direct Australian higher education without leaving the country. The campus also marks a historic milestone as the first offshore campus of Edith Cowan University, Australia, bringing globally recognised academic standards, teaching excellence, and direct international bachelor programmes to Sri Lankan students.
The ceremony welcomed a distinguished gathering of academic leaders, lecturers, and staff members, all united in celebrating the individuals whose tireless efforts have played a crucial role in building a strong academic culture at ECU Sri Lanka. More than a formal awards ceremony, the evening highlighted the passion, mentorship, and dedication that educators bring to their profession, and the lasting impact they have on the lives of students.
The evening opened with a warm welcome to the audience, emphasising the significance of recognising the academic community that forms the backbone of ECU Sri Lanka. The event celebrated the commitment and passion of individuals who continuously contribute to the university’s academic excellence.
Lecturers play a vital role in shaping future professionals, inspiring students through knowledge and mentorship that extend far beyond the classroom. Their dedication ensures that students receive not only academic instruction but also the encouragement and support needed to succeed in their professional and personal journeys. The ECU Academic Excellence Awards provided a moment to acknowledge these invaluable contributions and honour those who make a lasting difference every day.
Further the evening commenced on a vibrant and celebratory note with a captivating welcome dance performance, setting the tone for the night’s celebrations. The performance reflected the spirit of unity and appreciation that defined the event, as the audience gathered to honor those who have dedicated their careers to advancing academic excellence.
Delivering the welcome address was David Matthews, Pro Vice-Chancellor of ECU Sri Lanka, a leader with more than 30 years of global experience in international education. Having worked across Australia, Canada, the United States, Malaysia, Japan, Turkey, and Europe, Matthews has played a pivotal role in establishing the ECU Sri Lanka campus and continues to guide the university’s strategic growth across Sri Lanka and South Asia. In his remarks, he acknowledged the dedication of the lecturers and academics who form the foundation of ECU’s academic success and reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to maintaining world-class education standards.
Following this, Dr. Sajani Dias, Dean of Academic Programmes at ECU Sri Lanka, addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of fostering an environment that promotes excellence in teaching and learning. She commended the lecturers for their dedication to nurturing academic achievement and for continuously inspiring students to pursue knowledge and innovation.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of awards recognising the academic staff whose dedication and service have contributed significantly to the ECU and ECC academic community.
The Bronze Awards recognised individuals who have demonstrated dedication and excellence in their academic journey with ECU. The awards were presented in two segments to honour a large number of recipients who have made meaningful contributions to teaching and student development. These awards celebrated the commitment of lecturers who consistently deliver quality education while inspiring their students to reach new heights.
Following the first set of Bronze Awards, the audience was treated to another entertainment performance, adding a moment of celebration and enjoyment. The second segment of Bronze Awards further acknowledged a wide range of lecturers whose work continues to support the academic growth of ECU and ECC students. Several additional recipients who were unable to attend the ceremony were also recognised through a special presentation, ensuring their contributions were equally acknowledged and celebrated.
The evening then moved on to the Silver Awards, which recognised individuals who have dedicated between five to ten years of service and excellence within the ECU academic community. These awards highlighted the sustained commitment of lecturers who have played an integral role in strengthening the academic programmes and student learning experience at ECU
Sri Lanka over the years.
Their continued service reflects the university’s strong academic foundation and the collaborative spirit that drives educational excellence. Through their dedication, these educators have helped shape thousands of students who have gone on to become successful professionals across various industries.
As the evening progressed, guests enjoyed another entertainment performance before the ceremony moved into one of the most prestigious segments of the night, the Gold Awards.
The Gold Awards honoured individuals who have contributed more than ten years of dedicated service and excellence to ECU. These recipients represent the pillars of the ECU academic community, having devoted a significant portion of their professional careers to advancing the university’s educational mission.
Their longstanding commitment reflects the values of integrity, knowledge sharing, and academic leadership that define ECU Sri Lanka. Over the years, their work has not only enriched the academic environment but has also strengthened the university’s reputation as a center for high-quality international education.
The final segment of the evening recognised two individuals with Special Awards, marking a remarkable milestone of 25 years of academic excellence at ECU. These awards honoured extraordinary contributions that have significantly shaped the growth and development of the ECU academic community over a quarter century.
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