Sri Lanka transfers SAARC Cultural Centre in Matara to Ocean University

ECONOMYNEXT – Sri Lanka’s cabinet has approved the transfer of the SAARC Cultural Centre premises in Nawimana, Matara, to the Ministry of Education for the establishment of the Ocean University of Sri Lanka.

The property comprises an 11-acre plot of land with 200,000 square feet of partially completed building space. The premises will be repurposed to resolve accommodation challenges for the university, which currently lacks a single permanent campus.

“The Ocean University of Sri Lanka currently operates out of several rented premises, and this transfer will provide a dedicated facility for its academic programs,” minister Nalinda Jayatissa said.

The move follows a directive issued at a cabinet meeting held on June 1, 2026. At that meeting, ministers instructed the Secretary to the Ministry of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Education to examine whether the buildings and premises could be utilized for educational or vocational training purposes.

Following that feasibility study, officials concluded that transferring the location to the Ocean University was the most suitable step to support higher education.

“It has been determined that it is appropriate to transfer the cultural centre premises to establish the Ocean University and expand training opportunities.”

The Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs has provided its concurrence for the handover of the property in Nawimana.

The transfer will allow the state to complete the existing buildings and provide the Ocean University with its own central campus, ending its practice of operating across several rented spaces. (Colombo/Oct20/2026)