In a landmark achievement, Oxford College of Business (OCB) has been named the winner of the Knowledge Services sector at the prestigious Best Corporate Citizen Sustainability Awards 2024, organized by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce. The awards ceremony, held at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel in Colombo, celebrated companies that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and corporate responsibility while achieving remarkable business success.

This accolade underscores OCB’s pioneering efforts in promoting sustainable higher education and exemplifies its commitment to fostering innovation, leadership, and environmental stewardship.

Commitment to Sustainability and Excellence

The theme of OCB’s award-winning 2023/24 Annual Report, titled “Transformation – Movements through Sustainability”, was pivotal in securing this recognition. The report highlights the higher education providers commitment to integrating sustainability into its core operations and academic framework. It demonstrates how the institution is creating a roadmap for a sustainable future by incorporating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into every aspect of its operations.

“At Oxford College of Business, sustainability is not just a concept; it is a practice. Our primary focus is to provide high-quality education while instilling a sense of environmental responsibility within our students, staff, and partners,” said Malindu Ranasinghe, Director of OCB.

Through its sustainability initiatives, Oxford College of Business has taken significant steps toward achieving net-zero emissions and fostering an educational environment where innovation meets environmental consciousness. The college continues to engage with students and stakeholders, driving positive societal change and aligning its goals with global sustainability benchmarks.

The Best Corporate Citizen Sustainability Awards, now in its 21st edition, recognize companies that demonstrate exceptional commitment to sustainability across multiple sectors. OCB’s journey to this milestone reflects a decade of dedication to sustainable practices and excellence in education.

Winning in the Knowledge Services sector is a testament to OCB’s forward-thinking strategies, which include:

• Innovative Curriculum Design: Emphasizing courses that integrate sustainability, ethical leadership, and corporate governance.
• Sustainable Campus Initiatives: Implementing energy-efficient practices, reducing carbon footprints, and promoting waste management within its facilities.
• Community Engagement: Leading outreach programs that enhance social equity and environmental conservation.

“We are honoured to be recognized in the Knowledge Services sector, I attribute these remarkable achievements to Christ alone, giving Him all the glory and honour!" Ranasinghe added. “This award is a reflection of our commitment to nurturing leaders who understand the importance of sustainability in today’s global business landscape.”

Transforming Education Through Sustainability

OCB’s 2023/24 Annual Report highlights its efforts to redefine higher education through sustainable practices. The report emphasizes the institution’s holistic approach, focusing on key areas such as:

• Environmental Responsibility: Implementing green initiatives, energy conservation programs, and promoting renewable energy sources within campus operations.
• Social Impact: Strengthening community partnerships and providing scholarships to underprivileged students, ensuring inclusive access to education.
• Economic Innovation: Encouraging research and development in areas that foster economic growth while adhering to sustainable business practices.

These initiatives align with the core values celebrated by the Best Corporate Citizen Sustainability Awards, which aim to inspire companies to adopt responsible practices that benefit both the community and the environment.

Industry-Wide Impact and Future Goals

OCB’s achievement comes at a time when the education sector is under increasing pressure to align with global sustainability goals. By winning this award, OCB has set a benchmark for other institutions in the region, showcasing how academia can play a pivotal role in driving sustainable development.

Moving forward, OCB plans to:

• Expand its Green Campus Initiatives: Invest in sustainable infrastructure and introduce eco-friendly technologies across all campuses.
• Enhance Research and Innovation: Foster research that addresses critical global challenges, including climate change, renewable energy, and social justice.
• Strengthen Global Partnerships: Collaborate with international universities and organizations to promote cross-border knowledge exchange and sustainable practices.

Recognition from the Best Corporate Citizen Sustainability Awards

The Best Corporate Citizen Sustainability Awards are renowned for their rigorous evaluation criteria, focusing on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives. Winning this award places OCB among an elite group of organizations recognized for their contributions to sustainable development.

The judges commended OCB for its strategic initiatives and innovative approach to integrating sustainability within its operations. The panel, chaired by experts in sustainability and corporate governance, emphasized the importance of OCB’s role in shaping the future of education in Sri Lanka.

A Commitment to a Better Future

OCB’s success at the Best Corporate Citizen Sustainability Awards 2024 is a testament to its unwavering commitment to sustainability and academic excellence. The institution’s focus on creating a sustainable future, coupled with its dedication to producing socially responsible leaders, sets a powerful example for educational institutions worldwide.

As OCB continues to lead the way in sustainable education, this recognition serves as both a milestone and a motivator. It underscores the importance of integrating sustainability into the core mission of academic institutions and highlights the transformative power of education in driving global change.