
The Advanced Workshop on Idea Generation and Business Development for Entrepreneurs was jointly organised by the University Business Linkage Cell, University of Vavuniya, and the GATE Institute, UK, on 23rd November 2024, from 9.00 am to 4.00 pm at the university premises, Pampaimadu, Vavuniya.
This Advanced Workshop on Idea Generation and Business Development was designed to empower established entrepreneurs, early-stage entrepreneurs, students with business ideas, and aspiring entrepreneurs. The workshop aimed to honour innovative business ideas, foster the creation of new products, and accelerate entrepreneurial growth.
Nearly 175 participants attended the event, which began with the registration of participants and the lighting of the traditional lamp.
The event was graced by several distinguished guests:
- Chief Guest: Sevithi Sai Murali, Consul General of India in Jaffna
- Dr. M. Arumukam – Chairman of the Startup Committee & Foundation, Member of the TANSAM Centre of Excellence, Tamil Nadu, India
- Mr. P. Parthipan – Vice President, Device Programs at Peloton Interactive, California, USA & Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Tamil Ventures LP
- Mr. M. Thabenthiran – District Vidatha Officer, District Secretariat, Vavuniya and Mullaitivu
Programme Highlights
The official programme commenced with a welcome address by Ms. S. Mathivathany, Director of the Business Linkage Cell, followed by an introductory speech by Dr. S. Senthan, CEO of the GATE Institute, UK.
Key sessions included:
- “GATE for Innovation, Venture & Entrepreneurship” – presented by Mr. K. Jeyaraj
- “Power of a Business Plan for an Entrepreneur” – by Mr. P. Sasitharan, Programme Coordinator, University of Vavuniya
- “Entrepreneurship and Innovation” – by Dr. M. Arumukam
- “Lessons from Global Perspectives” – led by Mr. Parthipan Paramsothy
Prof. Y. Nanthagopan, Dean of the Faculty of Business Studies, and Prof. A. Atputharajah, Vice Chancellor of the University of Vavuniya, also delivered key speeches on the importance of innovation, digital transformation, and entrepreneurship in economic growth.
This Advanced Workshop on Idea Generation and Business Development delivered meaningful results for all participants:
- Gained insights into local and global entrepreneurial landscapes, identifying new market opportunities, trends, and challenges
- Learned practical strategies for creating innovative products and services
- Built connections among entrepreneurs, students, and industry experts for collaboration and mentorship
- Registered on the GIVE platform, providing ongoing support, mentorship, and resources for business growth
The workshop successfully empowered entrepreneurs, honoured innovative ideas, and accelerated entrepreneurial growth through interactive sessions, expert guidance, and networking opportunities. This initiative highlights the collaborative vision of the University Business Linkage Cell and the GATE Institute in advancing entrepreneurship – both locally and globally – fostering the economic and innovative growth of the region.

