The Bandaranaike Centre for International Studies: 50 years of Leadership in International Studies
The Bandaranaike Centre for International Studies (BCIS), Sri Lanka’s pioneer International Relations educational institution, celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2024. It continues to uphold its cherished legacy of promoting global engagement and shaping the minds of future leaders in international affairs in Sri Lanka.
When the BCIS was established in 1974, the late Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike envisioned it primarily as an educational institute, dedicated to extending systematic education to a broader section of Sri Lankan society, particularly those without access to international relations education in foreign institutions. Secondly, she aimed for BCIS to engage in policyoriented research, providing informed insights to the foreign policy-making process. Thirdly, she aspired for BCIS to serve as a platform for interaction and networking among national and international IR scholars and other stakeholders in foreign policy. The Social Democratic framework in which the BCIS was established serves as an ideological compass guiding all its activities.
BCIS has faithfully upheld its founding vision and values throughout its existence. It has aspired to be among the leading South Asian institutions for research, training, and dissemination of knowledge on international relations and foreign policy. In the process, the BCIS has gained both national and regional acclaim for its significant contribution towards systematically analyzing regional and global developments, while conducting policy-oriented research and advocacy.
IR Teaching Programmes
The main thrust of its mandate is its International Relations and Global Affairs Teaching programmes. The BCIS offers a range of courses in International Relations, from the Certificate Course to the Diploma, Higher Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma. We provide an exceptional platform and a comprehensive set of programmes to equip students with the knowledge, skills and perspectives required to navigate the intricate dynamics of International Relations. Over the years, the BCIS has played host to a distinguished array of diplomats, scholars and world leaders who have shared their specialized knowledge and skills with the BCIS community. These interactions have enriched our understanding of the complex challenges facing our world. They have also served to inspire generations of students and professionals to engage actively with global affairs.
Research
The BCIS proudly upholds a rich tradition of policy-oriented research in foreign policy and themes pertinent to Sri Lankan foreign policy, regional affairs, and global politics. It serves as a platform for young researchers to engage with established scholars, fostering valuable interactions and knowledge exchange.
Language Training – Window to Other Cultures
The BCIS also offers an opportunity for students to learn key languages in use, globally today: Chinese, French, Hindi, Arabic, German, Spanish, Japanese, Korean. There are also courses in Sinhala and Tamil languages catering to both Sri Lankans and nonSri Lankans. The language courses can provide the means to transcend boundaries between communities and cultures and create exciting new opportunities.
Public Education and Networking
One of the hallmarks of BCIS is its unique role as a nexus for networking and mobilization of individuals passionate about global issues. Through its diverse array of programmes, conferences, public seminars and roundtable discussions, BCIS provides a vibrant platform for scholars, practitioners, and students to come together, exchange ideas, and build lasting connections. This ethos of connectivity not only enriches academic discourse but also fosters practical collaborations that address pressing global challenges.
The programmes of the BCIS are guided by the Council of Management and the Board of Academic Affairs that comprises a group of scholars with international repute led by its Chairperson, former President, H. E. Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga.
Begin Your Journey with BCIS
By providing a platform for interaction with renowned scholars, practitioners, and resources, BCIS offers an ideal educational environment for students to nurture their interests, hone their skills, and carve their path in the field of International Relations. Serving as a crucial gateway to the global stage, BCIS provides an invaluable launching pad for students venturing into international careers. Many Sri Lankan scholars and professionals in international relations have received their first schooling in international relations at BCIS. Come join the illustrious ranks of BCIS alumni to create a better world where peace, justice, sustainable development, human freedom, and dignity for all prevail.