To select the “Best IT Education Programme of the Year” with a special criterion that it must have had a programme aimed at Sri Lankan IT professionals:

1. Programme Design and Content

Relevance: Curriculum relevance to current IT industry needs and trends.
Innovation: Use of innovative teaching methods and technologies.
Comprehensive Coverage: Inclusion of essential IT skills, both technical and soft skills.

2. Impact and Outcomes

Career Advancement: Positive impact on the career progression of participants.
Skill Development: Measurable improvements in the skills and competencies of participants.
Certification: Issuance of recognised certifications or credentials upon completion.

3. Accessibility and Inclusivity

Accessibility: Ease of access for Sri Lankan IT professionals, including online availability and flexible scheduling.
Inclusivity: Efforts to make the programme inclusive of diverse participants, including those from different backgrounds and skill levels.
Affordability: Reasonable cost structure, potentially including scholarships or financial aid.

4. Participant Satisfaction

Feedback: Positive feedback and high satisfaction ratings from participants.
Retention and Completion Rates: High retention and completion rates among participants.
Alumni Success: Success stories and achievements of programme alumni.

5. Teaching Quality

Instructor Expertise: Qualifications and industry experience of instructors.
Engagement: Ability of instructors to engage and motivate participants.
Support: Availability of support resources such as mentors, tutors, and technical support.

6. Programme Reach and Scalability

Enrollment Numbers: High enrollment numbers, indicating the programme’s popularity and reach.
Scalability: Potential for the programme to be scaled up or adapted to other regions or demographics.
Outreach: Effective outreach and marketing efforts to attract Sri Lankan IT professionals.

7. Industry Collaboration and Recognition

Partnerships: Collaborations with industry partners, including tech companies, professional organisations, and academic institutions.
Industry Recognition: Awards, recognitions, or endorsements from reputable industry bodies or organisations.
Internships and Placements: Opportunities for internships, job placements, or real-world projects.

8. Programme Sustainability and Long-term Impact

Sustainability: Plans for the long-term sustainability and growth of the programme.
Long-term Impact: Expected long-term benefits and influence on participants’ careers and the IT industry.

This structured approach ensures a fair and thorough selection process, recognising the best IT education programme of the year that specifically caters to Sri Lankan IT professionals, highlighting its design, impact, accessibility, teaching quality, and overall contribution to the IT education landscape.