The Australian academic’s visit aims to strengthen ties between Curtin University Colombo and its parent institution in Perth.
Professor Jeff S. Brooks, Head of the School of Education at Curtin University, Australia, recognised as one the world’s leading voices in educational leadership and social justice, visited Colombo sharing a message of collaboration, courage, and change. His discussions with Sri Lankan educators opened new pathways for academic partnership and leadership innovation, reasserting Curtin University’s commitment to global impact through education.
His visit to Sri Lanka provided a platform for knowledge exchange, emphasising the importance of global partnerships to address shared educational challenges.
During his time in Sri Lanka, Professor Jeff Brooks engaged with a wide range of institutions and stakeholders, highlighting the importance of collaboration in advancing education. At Curtin University Colombo, he met with the leadership team and held in‑depth discussions with faculty and staff. These exchanges focused on strengthening academic development and exploring new avenues for institutional partnerships, strengthening the role of Curtin Colombo as a bridge between Sri Lanka and Curtin University in Perth.
Professor Brooks also participated in a high‑level meeting with the Ministry of Higher Education, which was attended by representatives from the National Institute of Education (NIE). The dialogue centered on strategies for implementing education reforms, with particular attention to how policymakers and practitioners can navigate resistance from stakeholders, offering meaningful, sustainable change.
At the Open University of Sri Lanka, Professor Brooks met with the Vice Chancellor to explore opportunities for collaboration between Curtin University Perth, Curtin University Colombo, and the Open University. The discussions highlighted the potential for joint initiatives that could expand access to higher education and foster innovation in teaching and learning.
His visit also included a session with the Information and Communication Technology Agency (ICTA), where conversations revolved around curricular reforms. Professor Brooks shared insights from the Australian context, also gaining a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s unique challenges and opportunities. The exchange opened pathways for future cooperation in integrating technology and modern pedagogical approaches into the national education framework.
Professor Brooks, a two-time J. William Fulbright Senior Scholar alumnus, has conducted extensive cross-national research in the United States, Australia, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines. His work focuses on how educational leaders influence and are influenced based on socio-cultural and organizational dynamics such as social justice, racism, globalization, and school reform.
Professor Brooks is the author of more than 100 scholarly publications and several influential books, including Black School, White School: Racism and Educational (Mis)leadership and Foundations of Educational Leadership: Developing Excellent and Equitable Schools. He also serves as Lead Series Editor for two international book series on educational leadership and social justice.
Learn more at https://curtincolombo.lk/
