Skip to main content Skip to main navigation

Keeping it in the family: Three Sri Lankan siblings all choose ECU

ECU is the destination of choice for the Manokaran family.

Two women and a man standing by a lake Deshithan, Pooshitha and Loshitha Manokaran of Sri Lanka have all chosen to study at ECU.

Three siblings from the Manokaran family in Sri Lanka have followed the same tertiary pathway, choosing Edith Cowan University (ECU) as their study destination.

Eldest sibling Pooshitha began studying a Bachelor of Science (Nursing) in 2017, and since graduating has worked full-time as a registered nurse, applying her skills and knowledge with community nursing in regional Western Australia.

Loshitha started her studies in 2020 and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical Power) Honours, and is also employed at ECU in the Communications Centre.

Following in the footsteps of his sisters, in 2025 Deshithan enrolled in the Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) Honours program.

ECU Dean of International Business Operations Marko Remes said it was a strong testament to ECU's international reputation for quality education.

"The Manokaran family's story is a powerful reflection of the trust international families place in ECU," Mr Remes said. "To have all three siblings choose ECU — across Nursing and Engineering — speaks volumes about the quality of our programs, the strength of our student experience, and the life-changing opportunities we offer.

"We're proud to be part of their global journeys."

Loshitha said while the thought of moving to a new country to study was initially daunting, she is extremely grateful for the many opportunities she has had here.

"We got the chance to come here thanks to our parents – while they were sad to see us leave home, they are happy and proud of the global education we are pursuing, and the incredible lifestyle and experience that Perth offers," she said.

"It was a big decision to go to a new place with a different environment and culture, but we are so glad we got this opportunity and for everything we have experienced – we are so happy to be here."

Three siblings at Joondalup campus The Manokaran siblings.

Media contacts

For all queries from journalists, official statements from the University or to speak to one of our subject matter experts, please contact our Corporate Relations team.

Telephone: +61 8 6304 2222
Email: pr@ecu.edu.au
Social: follow us on X

Related articles

Explore ECU Newsroom