Staff Development Centre - SDC
The Staff Development Centre (SDC) at the Swamy Vipulananda Institute of
Aesthetic Studies (SVIAS), Eastern University, Sri Lanka, serves as a vital pillar in
enhancing both the individual and collective capabilities of its staff within the higher
education sector of Sri Lanka. Furthermore, SDC, Swamy Vipulananda Institute of
Aesthetic Studies (SVIAS), is Continuously improving professional development
(CPD) initiatives and development of academic staff, with particular emphasis on
induction programmes in collaboration with the Staff Development Centre Eastern
University Sri Lanka.
Its mandate is to promote the professional development of academic and
administrative personnel, thereby significantly contributing to the improvement of
academic standards and institutional effectiveness.
By providing a diverse array of training programmes, the SDC not only ensures that
staff members are well-equipped with essential competencies but also fosters a
culture of continuous learning and development. This is particularly crucial in
today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, where adaptability and innovation
are paramount
The SDC aims to achieve several key objectives, including
1.Enhancement of Teaching Proficiency: The center offers workshops and resources
designed to equip Departments with cutting-edge teaching methods and pedagogical
strategies, thereby enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes. Improved
teaching practices directly influence the quality of education and student
achievement.
2.Refinement of Assessment Techniques: The SDC provides training in
contemporary assessment and evaluation methods, allowing staff to better measure
student performance with fairness and accuracy. Such initiatives help in identifying
student needs and guiding their academic journeys effectively.
3. Promotion of Research Excellence: A thriving research culture is essential for
academic growth. The SDC encourages the development of research skills among
faculty, facilitating scholarly pursuits and the essential translation of research into
published work. This not only enhances the visibility of the institution but also
contributes to the broader academic community.
4. Curriculum Development and Innovation: The center is instrumental in guiding
staff through the process of curriculum enhancement, ensuring that programme
offerings remain relevant and aligned with contemporary industry standards. This
commitment to curriculum innovation prepares students to better navigate the
complexities of the job market.
5.Integration of Technology: As technology becomes increasingly integral to
education, the SDC provides vital training in the use of information and
communication technologies (ICT). This empowers staff to incorporate digital tools
into their teaching and administrative practices, fostering a more engaging and
efficient learning environment.
6.Administrative Development: The SDC also focuses on enhancing the
management skills of administrative personnel, leading to improved organizational
effectiveness. This, in turn, creates a supportive environment that benefits both staff
and students alike.
By implementing targeted professional development programmes tailored to meet
the specific needs of each department within SVIAS, the SDC plays a crucial role in
advancing academic excellence. Its emphasis on developing academic skills, English
proficiency, and complementary training further solidifies its position as a key
contributor to the academic improvement of the institute. Ultimately, the SDC is
dedicated to cultivating a highly competent workforce that enhances the quality of
higher education in Sri Lanka, thereby positively impacting the broader educational
landscape.