Business · Sri Lanka Bureau
Sri Lanka transfers SAARC Cultural Centre to Ocean University in Matara
The government has transferred control of the SAARC Cultural Centre in Matara to the newly established Ocean University. The move is expected to integrate the facility into the university's academic and research operations.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
Sri Lanka's government has formally transferred the SAARC Cultural Centre located in Matara to Ocean University, marking a significant repurposing of the regional facility. The centre, originally established under the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation framework, will now operate under university administration.
The transfer reflects government efforts to optimize utilization of existing infrastructure and align cultural assets with institutional priorities. Ocean University, as a specialized institution focusing on maritime and ocean-related disciplines, will assume operational control of the Matara facility.
The decision comes as part of broader policy initiatives to enhance the utility of public assets and consolidate resource management across state institutions. The cultural centre, which previously functioned as a venue for regional cultural exchange and educational programming, will be integrated into the university's existing academic framework.
Officials have not disclosed specific details regarding how the facility will be modified or repurposed to serve the university's core mission. The transfer is expected to be finalized with the necessary administrative procedures and handover protocols completed by relevant government departments.