Department of English Language Teaching
The Department of English Language Teaching (ELT) is dedicated to fostering advanced English language skills among students and professionals. It offers a range of programs designed to enhance proficiency in both written and spoken English. The department focuses on innovative teaching methods, including communicative language teaching, task-based learning, and technology-enhanced instruction. By emphasizing practical language use and cultural understanding, ELT prepares students for global communication challenges. The department also supports research in language acquisition and pedagogy, aiming to contribute to the advancement of English language education. Through its comprehensive curriculum, ELT empowers learners to achieve fluency and confidence in English
Courses
Department Head's Message
Prof. Ashu Marasinghe
Founder/Chairman – Head | Department of Artificial Intelligence and Data Science
Welcome to the Department of English Language Teaching!
It is my great pleasure to extend a warm welcome to all students, faculty, and staff. Our department is dedicated to fostering excellence in the teaching and learning of the English language, and we pride ourselves on our innovative curriculum, dedicated faculty, and supportive community.
In today’s globalized world, proficiency in English is more important than ever. Our programs are designed to equip students with the linguistic, cultural, and pedagogical skills necessary to succeed in a variety of professional contexts. Whether you are pursuing a career in education, business, or any field that values strong communication skills, our department provides the resources and opportunities to help you achieve your goals.
Our faculty members are not only accomplished educators but also active researchers who contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of English language teaching. We are committed to creating an engaging and inclusive learning environment where students are encouraged to think critically, communicate effectively, and collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds.
In addition to our academic programs, we offer a range of extracurricular activities, including workshops, seminars, and cultural events, designed to enrich your educational experience and broaden your understanding of the English-speaking world.
I invite you to explore our website to learn more about our programs, faculty, and the exciting opportunities available to you in the Department of English Language Teaching. We look forward to supporting you on your academic journey and helping you achieve your full potential.
Staff Members
M.K.S Nawodya is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Japanese at the University of Sabaragamuwa. They have successfully passed the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) Levels
05, 04, 03, and 02, demonstrating a strong command of the language. They are also following an English Diploma at Aquinas College and the HSK Level 03 Course for Chinese language proficiency. Additionally, they have completed a Basic Spoken Chinese course at Sinchin Institute, further expanding their linguistic capabilities.
Harriet Erickson
Vice President, Student Affairs
Pankaja Erandi holds an MA in Linguistics from the University of Kelaniya (2014) and a BA General Degree (1st Class Honours) from the Faculty of Modern Languages, University of Kelaniya (2008), specializing in Japanese and Chinese languages with a GPA of 3.7. They have also earned a Diploma in Mass Communication and Writership from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura (2007) and a Diploma in
Productivity from the National Productivity Secretariat (2019).
Wesley Clarke
Senior Advisor to the President
Roshani dinusha a Bachelor of Arts General Degree from the University of Kelaniya and is a JLPT
Level 2 holder. With extensive training in Japanese language education, they have completed the
2009 Special Training Program for Young Teachers of Japanese Language from South Asia, conducted
by the Japan Foundation Japanese Language Institute, Urawa, Japan.
Betty Bowman
Acting Vice President for Finance
With over four decades of law teaching experience, Johnny Jones is a nationally-recognized constitutionalist who has received numerous awards for his teaching, including the first-ever Pioneer Award for his commitment and dedication to students from the FIU Student Bar Association in 2004. Since then, students have voted him “Professor of the Year” multiple times.
Contacts:
Johnny Jones
Dean, Diversity and Compliance
Eranga kavishka Is currently an undergraduate at the University of Sabaragamuwa, Sri Lanka, pursuing studies in Japanese. They have successfully completed the Higher Diploma in English at the Institute of Human Resource Advancement, University of Colombo, with distinction. Demonstrating proficiency in Japanese, they have passed JLPT N5, N4, and N3 levels with outstanding results.
Dennis Ruiz
Acting Vice President of Administration
Vernon Lowe first joined the University in 2006 as Assistant Dean for Academic Support Programs. He served as Assistant Dean until 2013, when he became a full time lecturer at the College. He teaches classes relating to legal theory and reasoning, race and law, gender and law, and in the area of commercial transactions.
Contacts:
Vernon Lowe
Assistant Vice President for Communications
M.K.S Nawodya is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Japanese at the University of Sabaragamuwa. They have successfully passed the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) Levels
05, 04, 03, and 02, demonstrating a strong command of the language. They are also following an English Diploma at Aquinas College and the HSK Level 03 Course for Chinese language proficiency. Additionally, they have completed a Basic Spoken Chinese course at Sinchin Institute, further expanding their linguistic capabilities.
Harriet Erickson
Vice President, Student Affairs
Pankaja Erandi holds an MA in Linguistics from the University of Kelaniya (2014) and a BA General Degree (1st Class Honours) from the Faculty of Modern Languages, University of Kelaniya (2008), specializing in Japanese and Chinese languages with a GPA of 3.7. They have also earned a Diploma in Mass Communication and Writership from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura (2007) and a Diploma in
Productivity from the National Productivity Secretariat (2019).
Wesley Clarke
Senior Advisor to the President
Roshani dinusha a Bachelor of Arts General Degree from the University of Kelaniya and is a JLPT
Level 2 holder. With extensive training in Japanese language education, they have completed the
2009 Special Training Program for Young Teachers of Japanese Language from South Asia, conducted
by the Japan Foundation Japanese Language Institute, Urawa, Japan.
Betty Bowman
Acting Vice President for Finance
With over four decades of law teaching experience, Johnny Jones is a nationally-recognized constitutionalist who has received numerous awards for his teaching, including the first-ever Pioneer Award for his commitment and dedication to students from the FIU Student Bar Association in 2004. Since then, students have voted him “Professor of the Year” multiple times.
Contacts:
Johnny Jones
Dean, Diversity and Compliance
Eranga kavishka Is currently an undergraduate at the University of Sabaragamuwa, Sri Lanka, pursuing studies in Japanese. They have successfully completed the Higher Diploma in English at the Institute of Human Resource Advancement, University of Colombo, with distinction. Demonstrating proficiency in Japanese, they have passed JLPT N5, N4, and N3 levels with outstanding results.
Dennis Ruiz
Acting Vice President of Administration
Vernon Lowe first joined the University in 2006 as Assistant Dean for Academic Support Programs. He served as Assistant Dean until 2013, when he became a full time lecturer at the College. He teaches classes relating to legal theory and reasoning, race and law, gender and law, and in the area of commercial transactions.
Contacts:
Vernon Lowe
Assistant Vice President for Communications
Our Commitment
Language Proficiency
Our comprehensive language courses cover all aspects of Japanese, from basic conversation to advanced business communication. We aim to develop our students' listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills to a high standard, enabling them to navigate both everyday and professional environments with confidence.
Cultural Understanding
Understanding Japanese culture is crucial for effective communication and integration. Our programs include immersive cultural experiences and lessons on Japanese customs, etiquette, and work culture, preparing students to seamlessly adapt to life in Japan.
Professional Skills
Beyond language and culture, we focus on the specific vocational skills needed for various industries within the SSW program. Our training modules are tailored to align with the requirements of sectors such as hospitality, healthcare, agriculture, and manufacturing, ensuring our graduates are job-ready.
Why Choose Us?
Experienced Faculty
Our instructors are seasoned professionals with extensive experience in teaching Japanese as a second language and a deep understanding of the SSW program's demands.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
We provide a conducive learning environment equipped with modern resources and technologies to enhance the educational experience.
Supportive Community
We foster a supportive and inclusive community where students from diverse backgrounds can thrive and build lasting connections.
How to Apply
- You Apply
Tell us a little about yourself and we’ll help with the rest. Our convenient online application tool only takes 10 minutes to complete.
- We Connect
After you submit your application, an admissions representative will contact you and will help you to complete the process.
- You Get Ready
Once you’ve completed your application and connected with an admissions representative, you’re ready to create your schedule.