Department of Korean Language Teaching
The Department of Korean Language Teaching focuses on providing comprehensive education in the Korean language, culture, and literature. It aims to develop students’ proficiency in Korean through immersive learning experiences, interactive courses, and cultural activities. The department employs a range of instructional methods, including modern pedagogical techniques and multimedia resources, to enhance language acquisition and practical usage. Students are encouraged to engage in cross-cultural exchanges and participate in Korean language proficiency tests. The department also supports research in Korean linguistics and cultural studies, preparing students for careers in translation, international relations, and global business.
Courses
Department Head's Message
Dr. Piyal Ariyananda
Director – Head | Department of Korean Language Teaching
Welcome to the Department of Korean Language Teaching. As the Head of the Department, I am honored to extend a warm welcome to all current and prospective students, faculty members, and partners. Our department is dedicated to fostering a deep understanding and appreciation of the Korean language and culture. With a team of experienced and passionate educators, we strive to provide a comprehensive and enriching learning experience for all our students.
In today’s globalized world, proficiency in the Korean language opens doors to numerous opportunities in academia, business, diplomacy, and cultural exchange. Our curriculum is designed to equip students with not only linguistic skills but also cultural insights, enabling them to navigate and contribute to the dynamic landscape of Korean society.
We offer a diverse range of courses, from beginner to advanced levels, ensuring that each student’s unique learning needs and goals are met. Our programs are supported by state-of-the-art facilities, interactive teaching methods, and a vibrant community of learners and scholars.
In addition to our rigorous academic programs, we emphasize experiential learning through cultural immersion activities, study abroad programs, and collaborations with institutions and organizations in Korea. These experiences provide our students with firsthand exposure to Korean culture and enhance their language proficiency in real-world contexts.
We are committed to continuous improvement and innovation in our teaching methods and curriculum to stay at the forefront of Korean language education. Our department also actively engages in research and outreach activities, contributing to the global discourse on Korean language and culture.
Thank you for choosing our department as your partner in your Korean language learning journey. We look forward to supporting you in achieving your academic and professional goals and becoming a part of our thriving community.
Staff Members
M.K.S Nawodya is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Japanese at the University of Sabaragamuwa. They have successfully passed the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) Levels
05, 04, 03, and 02, demonstrating a strong command of the language. They are also following an English Diploma at Aquinas College and the HSK Level 03 Course for Chinese language proficiency. Additionally, they have completed a Basic Spoken Chinese course at Sinchin Institute, further expanding their linguistic capabilities.
Harriet Erickson
Vice President, Student Affairs
Pankaja Erandi holds an MA in Linguistics from the University of Kelaniya (2014) and a BA General Degree (1st Class Honours) from the Faculty of Modern Languages, University of Kelaniya (2008), specializing in Japanese and Chinese languages with a GPA of 3.7. They have also earned a Diploma in Mass Communication and Writership from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura (2007) and a Diploma in
Productivity from the National Productivity Secretariat (2019).
Wesley Clarke
Senior Advisor to the President
Roshani dinusha a Bachelor of Arts General Degree from the University of Kelaniya and is a JLPT
Level 2 holder. With extensive training in Japanese language education, they have completed the
2009 Special Training Program for Young Teachers of Japanese Language from South Asia, conducted
by the Japan Foundation Japanese Language Institute, Urawa, Japan.
Betty Bowman
Acting Vice President for Finance
With over four decades of law teaching experience, Johnny Jones is a nationally-recognized constitutionalist who has received numerous awards for his teaching, including the first-ever Pioneer Award for his commitment and dedication to students from the FIU Student Bar Association in 2004. Since then, students have voted him “Professor of the Year” multiple times.
Contacts:
Johnny Jones
Dean, Diversity and Compliance
Eranga kavishka Is currently an undergraduate at the University of Sabaragamuwa, Sri Lanka, pursuing studies in Japanese. They have successfully completed the Higher Diploma in English at the Institute of Human Resource Advancement, University of Colombo, with distinction. Demonstrating proficiency in Japanese, they have passed JLPT N5, N4, and N3 levels with outstanding results.
Dennis Ruiz
Acting Vice President of Administration
Vernon Lowe first joined the University in 2006 as Assistant Dean for Academic Support Programs. He served as Assistant Dean until 2013, when he became a full time lecturer at the College. He teaches classes relating to legal theory and reasoning, race and law, gender and law, and in the area of commercial transactions.
Contacts:
Vernon Lowe
Assistant Vice President for Communications
M.K.S Nawodya is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Japanese at the University of Sabaragamuwa. They have successfully passed the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) Levels
05, 04, 03, and 02, demonstrating a strong command of the language. They are also following an English Diploma at Aquinas College and the HSK Level 03 Course for Chinese language proficiency. Additionally, they have completed a Basic Spoken Chinese course at Sinchin Institute, further expanding their linguistic capabilities.
Harriet Erickson
Vice President, Student Affairs
Pankaja Erandi holds an MA in Linguistics from the University of Kelaniya (2014) and a BA General Degree (1st Class Honours) from the Faculty of Modern Languages, University of Kelaniya (2008), specializing in Japanese and Chinese languages with a GPA of 3.7. They have also earned a Diploma in Mass Communication and Writership from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura (2007) and a Diploma in
Productivity from the National Productivity Secretariat (2019).
Wesley Clarke
Senior Advisor to the President
Roshani dinusha a Bachelor of Arts General Degree from the University of Kelaniya and is a JLPT
Level 2 holder. With extensive training in Japanese language education, they have completed the
2009 Special Training Program for Young Teachers of Japanese Language from South Asia, conducted
by the Japan Foundation Japanese Language Institute, Urawa, Japan.
Betty Bowman
Acting Vice President for Finance
With over four decades of law teaching experience, Johnny Jones is a nationally-recognized constitutionalist who has received numerous awards for his teaching, including the first-ever Pioneer Award for his commitment and dedication to students from the FIU Student Bar Association in 2004. Since then, students have voted him “Professor of the Year” multiple times.
Contacts:
Johnny Jones
Dean, Diversity and Compliance
Eranga kavishka Is currently an undergraduate at the University of Sabaragamuwa, Sri Lanka, pursuing studies in Japanese. They have successfully completed the Higher Diploma in English at the Institute of Human Resource Advancement, University of Colombo, with distinction. Demonstrating proficiency in Japanese, they have passed JLPT N5, N4, and N3 levels with outstanding results.
Dennis Ruiz
Acting Vice President of Administration
Vernon Lowe first joined the University in 2006 as Assistant Dean for Academic Support Programs. He served as Assistant Dean until 2013, when he became a full time lecturer at the College. He teaches classes relating to legal theory and reasoning, race and law, gender and law, and in the area of commercial transactions.
Contacts:
Vernon Lowe
Assistant Vice President for Communications
Our Commitment
Language Proficiency
Our comprehensive language courses cover all aspects of Japanese, from basic conversation to advanced business communication. We aim to develop our students' listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills to a high standard, enabling them to navigate both everyday and professional environments with confidence.
Cultural Understanding
Understanding Japanese culture is crucial for effective communication and integration. Our programs include immersive cultural experiences and lessons on Japanese customs, etiquette, and work culture, preparing students to seamlessly adapt to life in Japan.
Professional Skills
Beyond language and culture, we focus on the specific vocational skills needed for various industries within the SSW program. Our training modules are tailored to align with the requirements of sectors such as hospitality, healthcare, agriculture, and manufacturing, ensuring our graduates are job-ready.
Why Choose Us?
Experienced Faculty
Our instructors are seasoned professionals with extensive experience in teaching Japanese as a second language and a deep understanding of the SSW program's demands.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
We provide a conducive learning environment equipped with modern resources and technologies to enhance the educational experience.
Supportive Community
We foster a supportive and inclusive community where students from diverse backgrounds can thrive and build lasting connections.
How to Apply
- You Apply
Tell us a little about yourself and we’ll help with the rest. Our convenient online application tool only takes 10 minutes to complete.
- We Connect
After you submit your application, an admissions representative will contact you and will help you to complete the process.
- You Get Ready
Once you’ve completed your application and connected with an admissions representative, you’re ready to create your schedule.