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Regional Agricultural Transformation Training (RATT) Workshop on Novel Agricultural Practices

Regional Agricultural Transformation Training (RATT) Workshop on Novel Agricultural Practices

Date: 23 December 2025

The University of Jaffna successfully conducted the Regional Agricultural Transformation Training (RATT) workshop at its Kilinochchi premises on 23 December 2025. Organized under the Erasmus+ AGRHI initiative, the programme was designed to introduce young and emerging farmers of the Kilinochchi region to modern and practical approaches in agriculture. The workshop focused on strengthening awareness and skills in soil and water management, protected cultivation, automation, and precision agriculture.

Through technical presentations, demonstrations, and interactive discussions, the workshop provided participants with exposure to innovative farming practices that can support more efficient, resilient, and sustainable agricultural production. The event also reflected the University’s continuing commitment to community outreach, farmer engagement, and the transfer of knowledge from academia to society.



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Talk on “Computational Methods in Modern Engineering: Applications of Atomistic Simulations Across Engineering Disciplines”

Talk on "Computational Methods in Modern Engineering: Applications of Atomistic Simulations Across Engineering Disciplines"

Date: September 17, 2025

On September 17, 2025, the IEEE PES Student Branch Chapter of the University of Jaffna hosted a prestigious workshop titled "Computational Methods in Modern Engineering: Applications of Atomistic Simulations Across Engineering Disciplines" Held at the MP02 Lecture Hall of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, the event attracted an impressive audience of over 100 participants, including professors, doctors, lecturers, and students. The session was led by Dr. V. Mugilgeethan, a Senior Lecturer with a PhD from Japan, whose expertise provided a high-level academic foundation for the discussion.

The workshop delved into advanced computational modeling techniques such as molecular dynamics and first-principles calculations to solve multifaceted engineering problems. Dr. Mugilgeethan demonstrated how analyzing material behavior at the atomic scale can revolutionize fields ranging from civil infrastructure and mechanical design to electronics and energy technologies. Organized in collaboration with the Mechanical Engineering Society (MES) and the IEEE Robotics & Automation Society (RAS), the session showcased how atomistic simulations could foster innovation, significantly reduce experimental costs, and unlock new pathways for materials development in emerging technologies.



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Awareness program for E-23 & E-24 batches

Awareness program for E-23 & E-24 batches

Date: 15th September 2025

An engaging online awareness program was organized on 15th September 2025 for the E23 and E24 batches to introduce them to the upcoming Techno Exhibition and its related competitions. The session, conducted via Zoom at 7:00 PM, was designed to clearly explain the range of events, participation procedures, and platforms available for students to showcase their technical skills and innovations.

This interactive program was jointly organized by the Mechanical Engineering Society of the University of Jaffna together with the IEEE Power and Energy Society (PES) Student Branch and the IEEE Robotics & Automation Society (RAS). By collaboratively guiding undergraduates on how to get involved in exhibitions and contests, the organizers aimed to motivate students to take early initiative, prepare strategically, and position themselves for academic and professional success.



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CEYLONXtcom 2025: IEEE ComSoc Summer School Series

CEYLONXtcom 2025: IEEE ComSoc Summer School Series

Date: August 11 to 15, 2025

CEYLONXtcom 2025, officially recognized as the IEEE ComSoc School Series, was a landmark five-day program held from August 11 to 15, 2025, at the Faculty of Engineering, University of Jaffna, and the Jaffna Cultural Centre, Sri Lanka. Organized by the IEEE ComSoc Students Branch Chapter of the University of Jaffna (Faculty of Engineering), this flagship event, themed “Envisioning the Future,” served as a vital platform connecting academia, industry, and research. It empowered over 250 participants including students, researchers, and professionals with cutting-edge knowledge in next-generation communication technologies, while positioning Sri Lanka’s northern region as an emerging hub for global technological discourse.

The program aimed to foster innovation, collaboration, and practical skill development across areas such as AI-driven networks, IoT ecosystems, 6G architectures, advanced wireless systems, satellite communications, network coding, cybersecurity, and green communications. By seamlessly integrating academic depth with hands-on experiences, CEYLONXtcom 2025 marked a significant milestone for both the University of Jaffna and IEEE ComSoc.

The event was further elevated by distinguished international speakers, including Prof. Swadesh De (IIT Delhi, India), Prof. Neeli Prasad (SmartAvatar B.V., Netherlands), Dr. Ranga Rao Venkatesha Prasad (TU Delft, Netherlands), Prof. Tamer ElBatt (American University in Cairo, Egypt), Prof. Ashutosh Dutta and Dr. Dang (Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, USA), Prof. Muriel Médard (MIT, USA), Prof. Ender Ayanoglu (UC Irvine, USA), Prof. Dushantha Jayakody (Lusófona University, Portugal), and Prof. Trung Q. Duong, alongside leading local experts such as Prof. Dileeka Dias, Dr. Pasan Maduranga, and Dr. Kushan Sudheera, who provided valuable regional perspectives.

Strong industry engagement further enhanced the program, with contributions from the Sri Lanka Air Force, SLT & Mobitel, Zone24x7, Capital Maharaja Group, the Radio Society of Sri Lanka, and the Arthur C. Clarke Institute, offering real-world demonstrations, practical problem-solving experiences, and meaningful career networking.

Overall, CEYLONXtcom 2025 emerged as a high-impact and inspiring event that promoted research excellence, industry–academia partnerships, and sustainable technological innovation, equipping participants with enhanced skills, lasting professional networks, and a comprehensive vision of the future of communication technologies.



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Human-Centered Design Workshop: Empowering Engineers with a User-Focused Innovation Mindset

Human-Centered Design Workshop: Empowering Engineers with a User-Focused Innovation Mindset

Date: July 14-18, 2025

The Human-Centered Design (HCD) Workshop was a comprehensive five-day experiential learning program aimed at equipping engineering students with industry-relevant skills essential for industrial training, internships, and real-world engineering projects. The workshop focused on developing a strong foundation in design thinking, emphasizing the importance of understanding user needs, building empathy, and creating innovative solutions that are practical, impactful, and user-focused. Facilitated by Prof. Vidya Haran (Teaching Associate Professor of Business Administration, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign), the workshop followed a structured yet engaging approach that guided participants through the complete Human-Centered Design lifecycle.

The workshop began on Day 1 with an introduction to human-centered design and design thinking, encouraging participants to adopt an empathy-driven approach to problem-solving. Day 2 emphasized immersion and observation, helping students identify real user needs through careful analysis of real-world contexts. Day 3 focused on ideation and collaboration, where teams brainstormed and refined ideas through discussion and feedback. Day 4 involved hands-on prototyping, turning concepts into practical models through experimentation. The program concluded on Day 5 with reflection and appreciation, allowing participants to review their learning and acknowledge the facilitator’s guidance.

Overall, the Human-Centered Design Workshop provided a holistic learning experience that bridged theory and practice. Participants gained valuable skills in user empathy, creative problem-solving, collaboration, and innovation for success in modern engineering roles.



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Prof. Kiruba Haran’s Visit and Industry–Academia Project Collaboration

Prof. Kiruba Haran’s Visit and Industry–Academia Project Collaboration

Date: July 17, 2025

The visit of Prof. Kiruba Haran on July 17, 2025, from the University of Illinois, USA, marked an important milestone in strengthening international collaboration and industry–academia engagement within the department. During his visit, Prof. Haran conducted a dedicated session at the UBL Incubation Center, introducing Hinetics, a startup initiative under UBL, and exploring potential avenues for collaborative research and development. As part of this collaboration with Hinetics, an electric three-wheeler (EV) project was initiated, involving academic staff and undergraduate students from the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, with funding support from Hinetics. The project aligns with the Northern Sri Lanka development vision, focusing on sustainable mobility, renewable energy integration, and energy-efficient transportation solutions.

In addition to the EV initiative, the collaboration extended to broader research activities in renewable energy and energy systems, enabling student involvement in multiple applied projects with real-world impact. Furthermore, through the collaboration with Prof. Arijit Banerjee from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), the department received power electronics educational laboratory kits, significantly enhancing hands-on learning capabilities. This partnership has directly contributed to the ongoing development of a modern power electronics laboratory within the department, strengthening practical education, research capacity, and long-term academic–industry collaboration in power electronics and energy systems.

Webinar on “Development of Ocean Energy Technologies in Sri Lanka”

Webinar on “Development of Ocean Energy Technologies in Sri Lanka”

Date: July 8, 2025

On July 8, 2025, the IEEE PES Student Branch of the University of Jaffna hosted a specialized webinar titled “Development of Ocean Energy Technologies in Sri Lanka,” featuring Dr. Ravindu Lokuliyana as the keynote speaker. A Senior Lecturer at The Open University of Sri Lanka and a Presidential Award recipient for his research, Dr. Lokuliyana provided expert insights into the technical complexities of Wave Energy Converter (WEC) systems and wave-wind hybrid energy solutions. The session highlighted his collaborative research with Queen’s University Belfast and explored the strategic potential of utilizing Sri Lanka’s vast marine resources to meet national renewable energy goals.

This webinar served as a critical addition to the branch's series of technical events, further broadening the academic horizons of the students by introducing them to frontier marine technologies. By facilitating a dialogue with a leading researcher in sustainable energy, the PES Student Branch successfully bridged the gap between theoretical physics and the practical implementation of ocean-based power generation. These initiatives continue to empower University of Jaffna engineering students with the specialized knowledge and industry-standard perspectives necessary to lead future innovations in the global renewable energy sector.



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Workshop on PSCAD

Workshop on PSCAD

Date: June 28, 2025

On the evening of June 28, 2025, following the successful field visit to renewable energy sites, the IEEE PES Student Branch hosted an introductory workshop on PSCAD (Power Systems Computer Aided Design). Conducted by the branch advisor, Eng. (Ms.) S. Nithusiga, this technical session was specifically tailored for the students of the Faculty of Engineering. The workshop provided a vital platform for participants to transition from physical site observations to digital system modeling, enhancing their technical proficiency in modern power system analysis.

During the session, students gained comprehensive knowledge on designing and demonstrating power system simulations and effectively navigating the software’s extensive component libraries. By mastering these simulation tools, attendees were able to visualize complex electrical phenomena and understand the nuances of grid design. This hands-on workshop successfully equipped students with industry-standard software skills, reinforcing the PES Student Branch’s mission to foster both practical and computational excellence in engineering.



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Field Visit to Explore Renewable Resources

Field Visit to Explore Renewable Resources

Date: June 28, 2025

On June 28, 2025, the IEEE PES Student Branch of the University of Jaffna organized an insightful field visit titled "Field Visit to Explore Renewable Resources" across the Kilinochchi premises. Approximately 60 members participated in the event, traveling by organized transport to visit four key renewable energy installations. The journey began at the Faculty of Agriculture's Biogas Plant with electricity generation capabilities, followed by a visit to the wind turbine and the innovative floating solar system located at the Faculty of Engineering. The tour concluded at the Department of Civil Engineering, where students examined the large-scale rooftop solar system.

Throughout the day, Eng. (Ms.) S. Nithusiga, the Advisor of the PES Student Branch, provided expert technical explanations for each power source. This hands-on experience offered students a unique opportunity to explore the mechanisms of diverse energy systems and understand their real-world applications within the university. By witnessing these operational technologies firsthand, members were able to effectively bridge the gap between their academic studies and the practicalities of renewable power generation.



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10th Anniversary of Kelani Shakthi CSR Program

10th Anniversary of Kelani Shakthi CSR Program

Date: 12th June 2025  | 
Location: Kilinochchi Premises

The ‘Kelani Shakthi’ CSR program, a collaborative initiative between Kelani Cables PLC and the Faculty of Engineering, University of Jaffna, celebrates its 10th anniversary on June 12 at the Kilinochchi premises under the patronage of university and industry representatives. The event will also mark the passing-out ceremony of 123 students from the 6th and 7th batches.

Since its inception in 2015, the one-year training program has equipped school leavers and beginners in the Jaffna peninsula with practical skills in domestic and industrial electrical wiring, producing nearly 186 qualified electrical technicians.

Introduced by Professor A. Atputharajah and Mr. Jayantha Wijesinghe, and formalized through an MoU signed in 2014, Kelani Shakthi has been extended twice due to strong community demand. Its successful ten-year continuity highlights the impact of university–industry collaboration in empowering youth through technical education and vocational training.



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