Partnership for the Goals

The policy for gender equity and equality, developed by KDU’s Center for Gender Equity and Equality (CGEE) offers diverse perspectives on how it matters for gender equality across a range of issues, from criminal justice to education, and underscores the commitment of the university. KDU shares its best practices with the communities around it by organizing informative speeches/ workshops to educate them about the need for and importance of gender equity and equality in all the aspects of life. 

All KDU faculties obtain the views of industries every year to identify the areas to be improved in respective curricula. Accordingly, department industry collaborative boards (DICB) are conducted regularly by inviting industry partners to share their knowledge and ideas. During the meetings parties also share best practices towards achieving SDGs. this type of dialogue is essential between industry and universities to support the country in achieving its SDG targets.

As a defense university, KDU closely works with the government, especially the Ministry of Defense. KDU’s Board of Management is headed by the Secretary to the Ministry of Defense; hence, as a higher education institution, support is sought by the Ministry from KDU in many activities related to policy development. Furthermore, KDU actively contributes to academic and research projects supported by the Ministry. Areas of focus often include defense technology, strategic policymaking, and military tactics. In addition, KDU's teachers and students provide their knowledge and skills to support national strategic planning, ultimately aiming to enhance the security and defense capabilities of the nation. As members of an institution closely connected with the government, they take part in working committees and provide expert input to key discussions related to defense and other matters of national interest

General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) collaborates with various institutions and bodies in uplifting its standard and expertise. The collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is one such example. Under the collaboration, KDU launches programmes to develop Non-violent Communication and Responsible use of Media. The UNDP activities in the university are hosted by the Department of Social Sciences of the Faculty of Management, Social Sciences and Humanities (FMSH). Various programmes such as workshops, exhibitions and seminars are organized to uplift the theme. KDU has also established a centre for Media and Communication studies which includes a recording room, a visual studio, and a make-up room providing much needed space and facilities for in-house recording, interviews, discussions, dubbing and other media productions. Thus, the Centre facilitates media research, video filming, voice covers, and podcast production to showcase the skills of KDU students, and it provides much needed space and facilities for recording interviews and other media productions that would facilitate the propagation of the University within and outside Sri Lanka.

The General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) hosts a number of international conferences with cooperation between academics, government representatives, professionals, and experts from industries and a variety of fields. These conferences function as a hub for collaborations, policy discussions, and information sharing focused on solving global issues. Distinguished dignitaries and other committed professionals from a range of fields come together to highlight the shared goal of promoting global collaboration and creativity in problem solving. As an initiative on promoting a space for generation of new knowledge, KDU annually holds an International Research Conference with themes that address issues pertaining to particular times of discussion. Apart from this annual event, KDU also hosts different other international conferences with the participation of students, staff, and other experts and professionals from varied disciplines of study. 

KDU at all times incorporates SDGs into its teaching in various different undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs. These Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are embedded in a wide array of studies, including business, social sciences, engineering, and medical courses. Consequently, KDU students are sensitized to global issues such as climate change, poverty, and inequality, making informed global citizens passionate about societal change. Additionally, in line with the SDGs, environment-focused projects and community service initiatives are regularly undertaken, fostering social responsibility. KDU's steadfast commitment to incorporating the SDGs into their curriculum sets us apart as a pioneering educational institution.