The Australian Business Education Centre (ABEC Premier), a forerunner in international education consultancy, is proud to celebrate its 20th anniversary of operations. Over the years, the company has been dedicated to transforming the aspirations of Sri Lankan students into global success stories. At its inception in Colombo, opportunities for higher education overseas were limited to a privileged few. Recognised the need to bridge this gap, ABEC set out on a mission to make international education accessible to both those with substantial financial means and ambitious middle-income students, who are eager to study abroad.
Initially, ABEC focussed on Singapore, specialising in hospitality programmes that offered students international recognised qualifications and hands-on training on a global scale. The growing demand led the company to expand its focus to Japan, which is a popular destination among middle-income families, and later went on to establish partnerships with leading universities in Malaysia as well.
As the company’s expertise deepened, it further expanded its portfolio, forging collaborations with respected universities in the United Kingdom and Australia. ABEC’s deep commitment to building strong partnerships has availed local students to world-class education across multiple disciplines. Locally, ABEC has established a foothold in Colombo, Kandy, Kurunegala, Galle and Jaffna, ensuring that students across the country can benefit from their expert guidance and personalised support.
Over the past 20 years, ABEC has support over 10,000 local students in pursuing higher education overseas. Many of these graduates have returned to Sri Lanka equipped with advanced knowledge, global exposure, and valuable professional networks, contributing largely to local economic and social development. Those who remain overseas have also led successful careers in leading organisations around the world, representing the nation proudly on a global stage.
A highlight of ABEC’s journey has been its success in helping students achieve highly competitive scholarships in countries such as Japan, the UK and Australia. These remarkable achievements have not only alleviated the financial burden for families but provided opportunities for deserving students to access world-class education.
The company’s vision has always extended beyond education. Inspired by the governments call to strengthen Sri Lanka’ tourism sector, ABEC expanded into the hospitality industry with launch of its inaugural property, Grand Serendib in Kandy, in late 2022. This reflected the company’s belief in the immense potential of Sri Lankan culture, hospitality and tourism. ABEC’s hospitality ventures are designed to create jobs, support local communities and showcase Sri Lanka to the world. Through both direct and indirect employment, the company continues to contribute significantly to local economies, supporting suppliers, farmers and food producers.
This milestone celebration will also mark the official unveiling of our second flagship venture “Hotel Grand Serendib Colombo” a luxury hotel project, valued over USD 14 Mn (LKR 4 billion) and launched as a Foreign Direct Investment.
In both the education and hospitality sectors, ABEC remains deeply committed to sustainability. By promoting eco-friendly practices and promoting responsible tourism, the company continues to work towards the preservation of Sri Lanka’s natural and cultural heritage. This not only protects the environment but also ensure long-term opportunities for future generations.
Looking back at its 20-year journey, ABEC Premier stands proudly as trust partner for local students seeking to achieve academic and professional dreams overseas. Going forward, ABEC remains deeply committed to expanding opportunities, building even more strong partnerships, and contributing meaningfully to Sri Lanka’s human capital, and economic development.
Image Caption –Dilip K. Herath – Chairman, ABEC Group of Companies; and Hon. Vijitha Herath – Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, and Harsha de Silva at the event marking the 20th anniversary celebration of the Australian Business Education Centre (ABEC Premier).