Orientation course for school leavers

COLOMBO: The Bandaranaike International Diplomatic Training Institute under the auspices of Lakshman Kadirgamar Institute of International Relations and Strategic Studies in response to popular demand and in keeping with its past traditions is planning to organise an orientation Course for school leavers who have just completed their A Levels both London and Local and who are planning to go abroad for studies.

This course of lectures will consist of about 20 hours extending over weeks. It is intended to prepare young students who are going abroad for the first time to face the multitude of problems before and immediately after departure to a Foreign University.

The first Module will guide students on how to look for Universities which will suit their needs and also on how to apply for scholarships. We intend to invite the educational and cultural officers from different missions representing Countries which are popular destinations for University Education.

The second Module will deal with post departure adjustment to a different environment and how to relate to diverse cultures. Many students who grow up in a closed family will find the new situation stressful and also face culture shocks.

There will be discussions on time management, financial management study skills and also difficulties regarding food and cooking. When you go abroad people of your host country will often ask you about Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka’s history and culture and of its scenic beauty.

You will be asked to participate in international days and cultural events. To better your performance in these activities the course will also give you the background necessary for you to shine in theses events and to be a Mini Ambassador par excellence for Sri Lanka.

We will therefore give an insight into Sri Lanka’s history and culture and also provide the necessary skills on meeting new people and making friends.”

Thirdly there will be exercises in Effective Public Speaking which will be useful at functions and other events such as diversity days which are a feature in many Universities.