The Ocean University of Sri Lanka launched its first MSc programme in Coastal Resources Economics and Management on 7th July 2023 and the inauguration ceremony held online and physically at the Ocean University premises, Colombo 15, marked the commencement of the first intake of students. The MSc programme aims to produce academically sound and professionally qualified and competent personnel to be involved in natural capital accounting, disaster management and risk and damage assessments, mainly focusing on coastal and marine resources. The programme is initiated with financial and technical assistance from IUCN Sri Lanka.

The ceremony was chaired by the Vice Chancellor of the Ocean University of Sri Lanka, Prof Wasantha Ratnayake and attended by Dr Shamen Vidanage, IUCN Country Representative, Dr H B Jayasiri Director, Center for Postgraduate Studies and senior Academic and Non-academic staff of the University and prospected students. Invited subject experts were also presented at the meeting. Students who attended the ceremony also expressed their views about the university and the programme.