Innovative strategic planning for a sustainable green university: University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka

Abstract

University of Ruhuna (UOR) consists of ten faculties that
spread over 366 acres in six different locations in the Southern Province of
Sri Lanka. Economically viable and mutually benefited public-private
partnerships, which ensure the common direction for the different goals
of stakeholders, are the principles of strategic green planning of the
University. This paper presents two key sustainable initiatives of UOR. The
proposed strategic landscaping project has been focused to utilize the
open space which accounts for 60-70% of the total land area. The total
open space will be divided into manageable zones based on geographical
characteristics. Private sponsorships will be sought to cover the initial
capital and maintenance cost, allowing sponsors to do selected
promotional activities within their zones. The second project is the
establishment of a sustainable, modern agribusiness venture. Thirty acres
of land will be rented out for a private company and the company has to
share the profit with the University. University will provide consultation
and technical support to the project. Cultivation of Cinnamon, Pepper and
other unique spicy crops, production of organic fertilizer and bio char,
protected agriculture project, Cinnamon oil extraction plant and solar
power project are the key components of this initiative

Keyword: Green university, Public-private partnerships, Strategic planning,
Sustainable