Exploring the Current Landscape of Social Work Education in Sri Lanka: Challenges and Opportunities for Advancement

This study critically examines the current landscape of Social Work education in Sri Lanka, focusing on the National Institute of Social Development (NISD), the country’s leading state institution in this field. The research identifies challenges related to curriculum development, accessibility, faculty capacity, and alignment with international academic and professional standards. It also explores opportunities for enhancing the quality, relevance, and global compatibility of social work education. Drawing on qualitative data from in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with key stakeholders including students, faculty, and practitioners the study provides insights into both structural and pedagogical dimensions of social work training. Findings reveal that while Sri Lanka has made significant progress in formalizing Social Work education, substantial gaps remain in curricular modernization, digital integration, research orientation, and responsiveness to national social service needs. The inclusion of International Social Work in the new MSW curriculum represents a key advancement, fostering global perspectives and professional adaptability. Overall, this research contributes to the discourse on strengthening Social Work education as a transformative force in promoting social justice, professional competence, and sustainable social development.