A discussion on the academic progress and future development of the MSc in GIS and MSc in Disaster Analysis, Management and Mitigation (MSc.DAMM) programs was held under the presence of Prof. D.A.C. Silva, Director, IHRA, University of Colombo.
The meeting was attended by:
• Snr. Prof. L. Manawadu – Faculty of Arts, Department of Geography, University of Colombo
• Prof. W.S. Chandrasekara – Coordinator, MSc in Disaster Analysis and Mitigation Management Studies, IHRA, UoC
• Dr. Sandamali Wijerathne – Faculty of Arts, Department of Geography, External Coordinator MSc in GIS, IHRA, UoC
• Mr. K.D.N. Hewage – Coordinator, MSc in GIS, IHRA, UoC
The discussion focused on reviewing the current progress of the MSc in GIS and MSc in DAMM programmes and exploring strategies for further strengthening and expanding these academic offerings through industry-interactive and application oriented learning approaches.
Special attention was given to the development pathway of both programmes, including the Diploma, Higher Diploma, Postgraduate Diploma, and Master Degree of 1-year(SLQF 9) and 2-years(SLQF 10) structures. The Diploma, Higher Diploma, and Postgraduate Diploma are planned as newly introduced programmes, while the Master Degrees will be restructured, all in alignment with the SLQF framework.
This initiative aims to further improve the quality, continuity, and academic impact of both programmes in line with national and international standards.
