NSBM Green University has been featured as a successful model of higher education financing in a publication by the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU), titled Alternative Higher Education Financing: Global Trends and Commonwealth Policy Insights.

The publication examines sustainable approaches to financing higher education across the Commonwealth, highlighting NSBM as a case study of a successful self-financing higher education institution. It explores how the University’s self-financing model, coupled with international university partnerships, has contributed to institutional sustainability, expanded access to higher education and supported national development.

A key policy insight emerging from the case study highlights the importance of promoting internationally recognised qualifications delivered locally, particularly in countries experiencing significant outbound student mobility. It further underscores how such models, when supported by robust quality assurance frameworks, can strengthen domestic higher education capacity, reduce educational outflows, retain talent within the country and contribute to national economic development.

Established with a vision of broadening access to quality higher education in Sri Lanka, NSBM has grown into one of the country’s leading higher education institutions over the past decade. Operating as a fully self-financing institution without reliance on public funds, the University has continued to invest in educational infrastructure, academic advancement, international collaborations and expanded opportunities for the younger generation.

As NSBM marked its 10th Anniversary on 26 October 2026, this recognition by the ACU stands as a significant milestone in the University’s journey. Beyond recognising NSBM’s institutional achievements, its inclusion in this international publication brings valuable attention to Sri Lanka’s evolving higher education landscape and demonstrates the country’s potential to contribute meaningful insights and sustainable models to the wider Commonwealth higher education community.