Brandix College launches RMIT degree program

Brandix College of Clothing Technology, together with the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, Australia, launched the first ever degree program in textile technology accredited by a foreign university in Sri Lanka. On 19 September 2005, twenty six students enrolled in the inaugural three-year degree program on completion of which they will be awarded a Bachelor of Applied Science in Textile Technology. Welcoming the students, AJ Johnpillai - Director/Brandix Lanka stated assured them that "upon completion of your degree, you will be a valued asset to any organization" and that the industry is eagerly awaiting these textile and apparel technocrats to support the growth of this dynamic industry.

Ranked amongst the top ten universities in Australia, The Royal Melbourne Institute Technology in Australia is world renowned for excellence in vocational and technical education. The School of fashion and Textiles of the RMIT University in collaboration with the Brandix College is now offering Sri Lankan students with an excellent opportunity to obtain an internationally recognized degree in textile technology. The three-year degree program constitutes of a full time two-year Diploma program leading to the College Diploma in Clothing Technology & Management followed by a part-time final year Bachelor's Degree program offered by RMIT University through the Brandix College.

This comprehensive course, designed to develop critical leadership skills and a thorough knowledge of textile and clothing technology, covers subjects such as General Science and Mathematics, Textile Technology, Product Development and Pattern Making, Clothing Technology, Supply Chain Management and Garment Manufacturing, Factory Management and Finance, Merchandising and Quality Control.

Students with a minimum of 3 A/L passes in Science are eligible to apply for the College Diploma program which is conducted during week days. In-plant training sessions incorporated into the structure of the program will allow students an opportunity to gain a working knowledge of the industry through practical applications. Students will be continuously assessed through examinations conducted at the end of each module and course work. Those who successfully complete the first two years will be eligible to proceed to the final year of the Bachelor's Degree program. During the final year, students will have the opportunity of following the core subjects as well as elective subjects such as Process engineering, Garment Production Management, Product Development, CAD/CAM, Human Resource Management and Finance. Each student is also required to undertake a project study conducted in a factory environment so that the research findings will be of direct use to the industry.

Individuals with sufficient experience in the clothing industry coupled with recognized academic qualifications from a recognized professional institute may be considered on an individual basis to follow the final year of the degree program. The final year lectures have been arranged for after normal office hours and weekends in order to facilitate those already employed. A unique offer for the final year entrants is the opportunity to join on an 'earn while you learn' basis. Those qualifying for the final year could join on their own in their personal capacity, or, partner with a corporate enterprise in clothing enabling students to work as trainees and earn an attractive allowance while studying part time at Brandix College. On successful completion of the degree, students will be offered full time responsible employment at these enterprises.

Mr. Rohana Kuruppu, Managing Director of Brandix College, a pioneer in Vocational Training summarized stating that "this is an excellent choice for students to obtain an internationally recognized textile degree without having to leave the country which spares the time and cost giving opportunity to enter one of the most dynamic and competitive industries." Commenting on future programs, Mr Kuruppu added "we are keen to grow with RMIT with opportunities to conduct postgraduate programs". Endorsing this view, both Dr Rajiv Padhye - Senior Lecturer/Programs Manager of RMIT and Mr Kent Williamson - Industry Training Manager, RMIT encouraged the students to pursue continuous learning by moving onto obtain Masters of Technology (Textiles).