The premier institution in Social Work education in Sri Lanka. They are recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) as a degree awarding Institute, under section 25A of the Universities Act No.16 of 1978. NISD is a statutory body functioning under the purview of the State Ministry of Social Empowerment. NISD is committed to be an educational institution producing professional social workers to serve the social welfare, promote social development and social empowerment.