On Sunday, 8th September 2024, SFS Academy successfully inaugurated its highly anticipated Diploma in Interior Design NVQ 5 Program at the Colombo campus. This event marked the beginning of an exciting educational journey for the newly enrolled students, setting the stage for professional growth and career development in the field of interior design.
The ceremony began at 9:30 AM and was attended by students, faculty members, and distinguished guests from various sectors. It served as a formal introduction to the comprehensive training that SFS Academy is renowned for, and reinforced its commitment to shaping the future of Sri Lanka’s interior design industry. The day was filled with key presentations from SFS Academy’s leadership team and faculty, offering insights into the curriculum, certification process, and the academy’s overall mission.
Chathuranga Wijesinghe, the Business Development Manager at SFS Academy, who welcomed the students and guests to the inauguration. In his introduction, he emphasized the core values and mission of SFS Academy, which focuses on delivering high-quality education that is both industry-relevant and globally recognized. Chathuranga spoke about the academy’s legacy as an Authorized Training Center for Autodesk USA and its Registered Institute under TVEC Sri Lanka, highlighting its 15-year history of excellence in vocational training.
He also discussed the academy’s continuous efforts to stay at the forefront of education by incorporating the latest industry tools and practices. By partnering with globally recognized certifications such as Autodesk and TVEC, SFS Academy ensures that its students are not just academically proficient but also industry-ready. The Diploma in Interior Design NVQ 5 program is one of the flagship offerings at SFS Academy, designed to provide students with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience in interior design, preparing them for successful careers.
Keynote Speech by Managing Director Engineer Nilmini De Silva
The ceremony’s highlight was the keynote address delivered by Engineer Nilmini De Silva, the Managing Director of SFS Academy. In her inspiring speech, she welcomed the students to the program and expressed her excitement about the future opportunities that await them. Nilmini De Silva’s presentation was both informative and motivational, outlining the details of the Diploma in Interior Design NVQ 5 Program and the unique advantages it offers to students.
She began by explaining the structure of the diploma, which spans two semesters over an 18-month period. The program is meticulously designed to combine theoretical foundations with practical applications, ensuring that students gain a well-rounded understanding of interior design. She also emphasized that the diploma aligns with the standards set by the Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission (TVEC) in Sri Lanka, making it a nationally recognized qualification.
Nilmini also shed light on the exam process, which involves both theoretical exams and practical assessments. These exams are designed to evaluate the student’s comprehension of design concepts, technical skills, and their ability to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios. Furthermore, she highlighted the importance of Autodesk certifications, which are integrated into the program. Students will be trained to use AutoCAD and 3ds Max, two of the most widely used software in the design industry. Gaining proficiency in these tools not only enhances their skill set but also makes them competitive in the global job market.
Nilmini De Silva also touched on the academy’s general processes and support systems, assuring students that they would have access to all necessary resources, including experienced faculty, industry connections, and state-of-the-art facilities. Her speech was well-received by both students and faculty, setting a positive and hopeful tone for the academic year ahead.
Introduction to the Lecturer Panel
Following the speech by Nilmini De Silva, the students were introduced to the highly qualified and experienced lecturer panel that would guide them throughout the diploma program. Each of the lecturers brings a wealth of industry experience and academic knowledge, making them invaluable mentors to the students.
- Professor Rohan De Silva, a veteran in the architecture and interior design sectors, was introduced as one of the key faculty members. His expertise, particularly in blending technical knowledge with creative design, will provide students with a deep understanding of both traditional and modern design practices.
- Ms. Achini Wickramarathne, another core faculty member, is known for her focus on practical learning. With years of experience in the interior design industry, she will offer students insights into the latest trends and technologies in the field, ensuring they stay up-to-date with industry standards.
- Mr. Wiraj Gunarathne and Mr. Virajitha Lanka, both of whom have extensive experience in design and architecture, were also introduced as lecturers in the program. They are committed to helping students master the practical aspects of interior design, such as spatial planning, material selection, and software proficiency.
This highly skilled and diverse team of lecturers will provide students with a comprehensive learning experience, combining academic rigor with real-world applications.
Program Overview and Industry-Relevant Curriculum
The Diploma in Interior Design NVQ 5 Program at SFS Academy is structured to provide students with a deep understanding of interior design, starting with the fundamentals and progressing towards more advanced concepts. The program covers a wide range of subjects, including:
- Space Planning and Layout: Students will learn how to design functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces, balancing form and function.
- Color Theory and Lighting: The program explores the psychological impact of color and lighting on interior spaces, teaching students how to create the desired ambiance.
- Material Selection: Students will be guided in selecting appropriate materials for different types of spaces, considering factors such as durability, sustainability, and cost.
- Software Proficiency: A key component of the program is gaining proficiency in industry-standard software like AutoCAD and 3ds Max. These tools are essential for creating accurate technical drawings and 3D visualizations.
In addition to the core subjects, students will also have opportunities to work on real-world projects, collaborate with industry professionals, and participate in internships, giving them practical experience and a portfolio of work by the end of the program.
Importance of TVEC Certification and Global Recognition
One of the standout features of the program is its alignment with TVEC standards, which makes the Diploma in Interior Design NVQ 5 a nationally recognized qualification. This opens up numerous opportunities for graduates, not only in Sri Lanka but also internationally. The integration of Autodesk certifications further enhances the global employability of students, as proficiency in AutoCAD and 3ds Max is highly sought after by employers worldwide.
Flexible Learning Options and Student Support
Understanding the diverse needs of its students, SFS Academy offers flexible learning options, including online, physical, and hybrid formats. This flexibility ensures that students can balance their education with personal and professional commitments. The academy also provides a range of support services, including academic advising, career counseling, and access to state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring that students have everything they need to succeed.
A Promising Future for Interior Design Graduates
The inauguration of the Diploma in Interior Design NVQ 5 Program at SFS Academy marks the beginning of an exciting journey for students, filled with opportunities for learning, growth, and career advancement. With a curriculum that is both academically rigorous and industry-relevant, a highly qualified faculty, and a strong focus on practical experience, graduates of this program will be well-prepared to enter the competitive world of interior design.
SFS Academy looks forward to supporting its students every step of the way, helping them transform their passion for design into successful careers.