General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University

Kotelawala Defence University crest

General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) is a premier higher education institution in Sri Lanka dedicated to the study and research in military science, defence studies, and related fields. Established in 1981 as the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence Academy, it was elevated to university status in 1986, marking a significant milestone in its history. The university is named after General Sir John Kotelawala, a former Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, in recognition of his contribution to the country's military and educational sectors.

History

The inception of KDU traces back to the early 1980s, with the aim of providing professional military education to the officer cadets of the Sri Lanka Army, Sri Lanka Navy, and Sri Lanka Air Force. Over the years, KDU has expanded its academic portfolio to include undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs not only in defence and strategic studies but also in engineering, law, management, and medicine, among others.

Campus

Located in Ratmalana, a suburb of Colombo, the KDU campus boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including lecture halls, laboratories, libraries, and sports complexes. The serene and disciplined environment of the campus is conducive to both academic pursuits and military training.

Academic Programs

KDU offers a wide range of academic programs across several faculties:

• Faculty of Defence and Strategic Studies
• Faculty of Engineering
• Faculty of Law
• Faculty of Management, Social Sciences and Humanities
• Faculty of Medicine

These programs are designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for leadership roles in the defence sector as well as in the civilian sector.

Admission

Admission to KDU is highly competitive, with candidates undergoing rigorous selection processes. The university admits students for undergraduate programs through national level examinations and also offers opportunities for serving military personnel to pursue further education.

Research and Development

KDU is actively involved in research and development activities, focusing on areas of national security, technology, and social sciences. The university encourages its faculty and students to engage in research projects that contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their respective fields.

International Collaboration

KDU has established partnerships with several international universities and defence institutions. These collaborations facilitate student and faculty exchanges, joint research projects, and participation in international conferences and seminars.

Alumni

The alumni of KDU include high-ranking military officers, government officials, and successful professionals in the private sector. They are well-regarded for their professional excellence, ethical conduct, and leadership qualities.

Conclusion

General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University stands as a testament to Sri Lanka's commitment to excellence in defence education and research. By fostering a culture of academic rigor and discipline, KDU plays a pivotal role in shaping the future leaders of the nation.