Sri Lanka's Premier School for Leadership & Public Policy




900K
Total Students


About the Bandaranaike Academy for Leadership and Public Policy
The Bandaranaike Academy for Leadership and Public Policy is an independent institution built on three core pillars: the Academic and Learning Pillar, the Research Pillar, and the Outreach Pillar. It offers postgraduate, diploma, and certificate programs in Leadership and Public Policy, welcoming both Sri Lankan and international students.
The Academy is dedicated to advancing innovative research across a wide range of fields, addressing both urgent modern issues and deeper societal challenges. It serves as a hub for discussion and debate, focusing on areas like education, governance, economics, politics, and cybersecurity. Through its work, the BALPP aims to connect with communities everywhere, tackling the critical issues of today with insight and action.
Docendo discimus – “By Teaching, We Learn”
This catalogue captures the essence of BALPP’s past events, where distinguished experts came together to tackle the pressing challenges of public policy and leadership. These discussions reflect our commitment to rigorous debate and engagement with the public, providing a platform for ideas that shape real-world outcomes. From in-depth discussions on governance and leadership to innovative solutions in public policy, BALPP events span a wide range of topics, including educational reform, education policy, and critical dialogues on the works of renowned authors and intellectuals. Guided by the principle Docendo discimus—“By teaching, we learn”—we create a space where both speakers and participants grow through shared insights and dialogue.















What Are Our Students Saying About Their BALPP Experience?
"The Education Policy Analysis course is unlike any other post-graduate diploma programme. It is a unique blend of theory, practice, hands-on research, and direct engagement with stakeholders that is both intellectually stimulating and directly applicable to a multitude of fields of research and work. I would very much recommend it to those of all disciplines and demographics looking to understand the workings of policy and how to weave it into their fields."
Hayati Rassool
Student - PGD In Education Policy & Analysis 2023/2024“The Cybersecurity Policy course at BALPP is one of the most unique courses I have been part of. The course has an interesting curriculum and different class format followed by the course director. In the short duration I have been a part of this course, I have already started applying the learnings in my work.”
Ahamed Nishadh
Student - PGD In Cybersecurity Policy 2023/2024"The opportunity to engage in the discourse on national education policy, across the spectrum from policy makers to elected representatives to the general public, is testament to the hands-on nature of the program offered by the BALPP. The flexibility to design the outcomes according to my goals was also a key factor in deciding to apply for the PGDip in Education Policy"
Sifaan Zavahir
Student - PGD In Education Policy & Analysis 2023/2024“I never thought that BALPP would reveal who I really am. I thought it was cool that I could do everything at once, but when I entered BALPP, I found out that I was the opposite of how I see myself in terms of my academic work. So, BALPP could be labelled as one of the best platforms for postgraduate studies in Sri Lanka.”
Pasan Wijayawardhana
Student - PGD In Economic Policy 2023/2024“Being in the program has been a complete shift of perspective where I have delved into the humanities for the first time in my life. While it is a struggle, I'm beginning to understand the intricacies of the process of policy creation and the complex impact that it has on the education system. I also appreciate the amount of practical experience that I have gained through the program and the opportunity to immediately advocate for Children’s Right to Education and Educational Equity. What I enjoy most about the program is the depth and passion in the discussions that I have with my class and professor”
Jeremy De Zilwa
Student - PGD In Education Policy & Analysis 2023/2024“From this course, I have gained so much important practical knowledge to use in my day today life. These lessons and the lecturer's knowledge are immersive. They taught us very well and everything was very clear.”
Manisha Morawaka
Student - PGD In Strategic Leadership 2023/2024“I've really enjoyed the discussions in class, and the chance to look at education policy changes happening in real time with a group of people from very different education-related backgrounds and experiences!”
Timaandra Wijesuriya
Student - PGD In Education Policy & Analysis 2023/2024






Upcoming Events, Projects &Workshops
Events & Projects
Stay tuned!
Stay tuned for upcoming policy dialogues, guest lectures, research roundtables and panel discussions by BALPP! Exciting opportunities to learn, connect, and lead are just around the corner.

Courses
Micro-credential - Women in Leadership
Empower your professional journey with BALPP’s 3-month Micro-Credential in Women in Leadership. Starting on 22nd February 2025, this transformative course equips you with strategies to overcome barriers, drive gender equity, and lead with confidence. Engage with industry experts and build the skills to shape an inclusive and impactful future. Learn more.
Micro-credential - Climate Resilience Policy
Join the 3-month Climate Resilience Policy program starting 27th February 2025 to explore strategies for a sustainable future. Led by top experts, held at BMICH. Learn more.
Micro-credential - AI Policy
Join the 3-month Artificial Intelligence and Public Policy program to explore how AI is transforming governance and decision-making. Gain insights from leading experts and shape the future of policymaking. Learn more.