Centre for Environmental Studies & Sustainable Development
Established in 1998 as the Environmental Studies Unit (ESU), the Centre for Environmental Studies and Sustainable Development (CESSD) at the Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL) has evolved into a dynamic hub for environmental education and innovation. The Centre was originally established to offer specialized training in Environmental Science for officers of the Central Environmental Authority (CEA) and the Ministry of Environment. Today, it has expanded its focus to reach a wider audience. In 2015, its transformation into CESSD marked a renewed commitment to addressing the complex intersections of environment and sustainable development.
With the launch of its multidisciplinary Master of Science in Environmental Science programme in 2007, the Centre now draws on the diverse academic strengths of OUSL’s faculties to provide a holistic, systems-based approach to environmental learning. CESSD stands at the forefront of nurturing skilled, environmentally conscious professionals, ready to meet the sustainability challenges of today and tomorrow.
Vision
To ensure sustainable development of environment and society through academic expertise, research and consultancy.
Mission
To deliver comprehensive environmental awareness and knowledge through distance learning mode among the schools, universities, stakeholders, professionals and public.
News & Events
Workshop and Mangrove Tree Planting Program
In response to the growing need for environmental awareness and conservation, the Centre for Environmental Studies and Sustainable Development (CESSD) of The Open University of
Beach Clean-up Program – Ambakandawila Beach (Chilaw)
On September 26, 2025, a beach cleanup was conducted at Ambakandawila Beach in Chilaw as part of the Less Plastic Policy initiative. The event saw
Uplifting Environmental Sustainability for Better University Rankings in Sri Lanka
The Institute of Environmental Professionals Sri Lanka (IEPSL), in collaboration with the Centre for Environmental Studies and Sustainable Development (CESSD) of the Open University of
Post-Conference Workshop – International Conference on Mangrove for Sustainability 2025
On July 26, 2025, to mark World Mangrove Day, the International Conference on Mangrove for Sustainability (ICMS) concluded with an engaging post-conference workshop held in
Workshop on “Understanding Plastics and Solutions for a Sustainable Future
The Centre for Environmental and Sustainable Development (CESSD) organized a workshop titled “Understanding Plastics and Solutions for a Sustainable Future” on June 5, 2025. This
Workshop on University Rankings
The Centre for Environmental Studies and Sustainable Development (CESSD) of the Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL), together with Institute of Environmental Professionals Sri Lanka
Academic Staff
Academic Support Staff
Non-Academic Staff
Contacts Us
Dr. M.G.Y.L. Mahagamage
Director
+94 112 881423 (8320)
dircessd@ou.ac.lk
CESSD Staff
+94 112881423
cessd@ou.ac.lk