The Bachelor of Labour Management (BLM) Unit at IHRA, University of Colombo, is committed to fostering education and empowerment in the field of labor management with a focus on social justice and equity. Led by esteemed coordinators Dr. Wijayantha Ukwatte, and Ms. KPS Sandamali (Lecturer) alongside DLE coordinator Mr. Nihal Hewage (Senoir Lecturer), the unit offers a comprehensive range of programs tailored to meet the evolving needs of individuals interested in labor management.

At the BLM Unit, we provide a dynamic curriculum that merges theoretical frameworks with hands-on experiences, under the guidance of seasoned faculty members and industry experts. Prioritizing critical analysis, empathy, and innovative problem-solving approaches, our programs equip graduates with the skills and insights necessary to effect positive change within labor communities. Whether you aspire to champion labor rights or drive systemic change, our courses offer a transformative journey of personal growth and professional development.

We offer Bachelor of Labour Management (BLM) and Bachelor of Labour Management Honours (BLM Hons.) programs, alongside the Diploma in Labour Education (DLE), designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools to address contemporary challenges and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of labor rights and equality. Join us in our mission to cultivate future leaders dedicated to building inclusive and equitable workplaces and societies.

The Institute of Human Resource Advancement (IHRA), University of Colombo, ceremonially inaugurated the 2025/2026 intake of its Bachelor of Labour Management (BLM) and Diploma in Labour Education (DLE) programmes on 23rd July 2025 at the New Arts Theatre, University of Colombo.

The BLM programme continues to hold the distinction of being the only internal undergraduate degree in Labour Management offered by a state university in Sri Lanka. It is uniquely designed to address the academic and professional development needs of employees in the labour sector, thereby contributing to strengthening the nation’s workforce and labour-related studies. The inauguration ceremony was held under the leadership of Professor W. S. Chandrasekara, Director of IHRA, together with academic staff, invited guests, and newly enrolled students.

The Inauguration ceremony for the Bachelor of Labour Management (BLM) and Diploma in Labour Education (DLE) programs for the academic year 2024/25 was held on the 22nd of August 2024 at the New Arts Theatre, Faculty of Arts, University of Colombo. The event, organized by the Institute of Human Resource Advancement (IHRA), marked the commencement of a new academic journey for students pursuing careers in labour management. The event was graced by the Vice Chancellor, Snr. Prof. (Chair) H.D. Karunaratne and the Director of IHRA, Prof. Sagara Chandrasekara , along with the dedicated academic and non-academic staff. The ceremony highlighted IHRA's dedication to fostering academic excellence and professional development in the field.

The Institute of Human Resource Advancement (IHRA) at the University of Colombo stands as a beacon of dedication, committed to enriching the skills and qualifications of professionals, ensuring their readiness for the challenges of their respective fields. At IHRA, we proudly offer the internal Bachelor of Labour Management (BLM) degree program, a cornerstone in the journey of individuals aspiring to excel in the realm of labour management. For those who may not initially meet the eligibility criteria, IHRA provides the Diploma in Labour Education (DLE) program, offering a pathway to meet requirements and eventually transition into the esteemed BLM program. This holistic approach underscores IHRA's unwavering commitment to empowering individuals with the requisite knowledge and expertise to thrive in their professional endeavors.

The dawn of the new academic year of 2023/24 was marked by a poignant inauguration ceremony on the 24th of May 2023. Hosted at the prestigious New Arts Theatre of the Faculty of Arts at the University of Colombo, the event was graced by the esteemed Vice Chancellor, Snr. Prof. (Chair) HD Karunarathne. This auspicious gathering brought together the visionary Director of the Institute, Prof. WS Chandrasekara, alongside our dedicated academic and non-academic staff. More than just symbolizing the commencement of an academic voyage, the ceremony underscored IHRA's enduring spirit of growth and unwavering commitment to excellence.

The inauguration ceremony unfolded as a vibrant and joyous celebration. The venue was adorned with captivating decorations, setting the stage for an atmosphere brimming with anticipation and enthusiasm. Delightful dance performances were orchestrated, infusing an element of entertainment and enriching the overall experience for attendees. Through such engaging initiatives, IHRA endeavors to cultivate an environment that not only nurtures personal growth and knowledge acquisition but also fosters a lifelong passion for the dynamic field of labour management.

The Ambepussa Army Camp hosted a workshop organized by the IHRA BLM unit, bringing together the BLM 2023/24 student group. Students delivered insightful presentations on social justice and racial equality, fostering dialogue and empowerment within the community.