EDUCATION

OBLATE INSTITUTE OF HIGHER LEARNING (OIHL)

Following the directives of the 2010 Oblate General Chapter, Institutes of Higher Learning are valued as an essential and dynamic ministry within the global Oblate Mission of Evangelization.

The Oblate Institute of Higher Learning (OIHL) in Sri Lanka was inaugurated on May 21, 2016, beautifully coinciding with the 200th anniversary of the foundation of the Congregation. Established under the visionary leadership of its founding Director, Rev. Dr. Oswald Firth, OMI, the institute was designed as a comprehensive educational umbrella to offer degree and diploma programs, certificate courses, seminars, and personality development initiatives.

Our Evolution and Global Reach

Initially located at the Centre for Society and Religion (CSR) in Maradana, OIHL's immediate foundational focus was on national reconciliation. For its first four years, the institute successfully conducted a highly regarded Diploma in Conflict and Peace Studies to help heal a post-war Sri Lanka.

Recognizing the Colombo Province's deep historical experience in education, OIHL was invited to join the global academic community. In 2019, the institute proudly became a permanent member of the International Association of the Oblate Institutes of Higher Learning (AOIHL).

A New Chapter at Dev Arana

Following proposals from the 2018 Provincial Congress, OIHL was relocated to establish its own dedicated physical campus. In January 2021, the institute officially took up residence at the Dev Arana Oblate Centre in Polwatta, Minuwangoda.

The year 2021 served as a period of profound evaluation and reflection on the institute's journey. In December of that year, Rev. Dr. Asanga Viraj, OMI, was appointed as the new Director to lead OIHL into its next era.

Our Current Academic Programs

Listening closely to the emerging needs of today’s youth and professionals, OIHL has vastly expanded its curriculum beyond its original peacebuilding roots. Today, we offer a robust, multi-disciplinary program designed to foster both professional excellence and holistic human development.

  • Our current course offerings include:
  • Course on Psychological Counselling (Conducted in Sinhala)
  • Course on Teacher Formation
  • English for Post-O/Level and Post-A/Level Students
  • English for Entrepreneurs
  • Course on Book-keeping and Accounts
  • Short Courses on Spirituality
  • Formation for Renewal

OBLATE INSTITUTE OF HIGHER LEARNING (OIHL)