Educational and Cultural Exchange Programme Held at University of Vavuniya
As part of the educational field visit organized by the Department of Political Science, Faculty of Arts and Culture, South Eastern University of Sri Lanka (SEUSL), the university held an Educational and Cultural Exchange Programme on 15th September 2026. The event took place at the UBL Boardroom, University of Vavuniya (UOV). The main objective was to give undergraduate students of Political Science first-hand exposure to the university environment. It also aimed to enhance their practical understanding of higher education, academic programmes, student support services, career guidance and professional development opportunities.
Participants at the Exchange Programme
Dr. M. Abdul Jabbar (Department of Political Science, SEUSL); Prof. M.A.M. Fowsar (Department of Political Science, SEUSL); Mr. G. Naveendrakumar (Director, Harmony Centre, UOV); Mr. S. Sivanenthira (Director, Career Guidance Unit, UOV); Dr. M. Kayanan (Dean, Faculty of Applied Science, UOV); Mr. V. Senthooran (Dean, Faculty of Technological Studies, UOV); and Mr. P. Sasitharan (Career Guidance Counsellor, UOV) attended the programme. Academic staff members and undergraduate students from the Department of Political Science, SEUSL, also took part.
Welcome Address and Introduction to the Harmony Centre
The Educational and Cultural Exchange Programme commenced with a welcome address. The Director, Career Guidance Unit, delivered the address. He warmly welcomed the visiting academic staff members and students. He also highlighted the importance of academic interaction, knowledge sharing and institutional collaboration between universities.
Following the welcome address, the Director, Harmony Centre, introduced the Harmony Centre as part of the exchange programme. He explained the objectives and activities of the Centre. He placed particular emphasis on harmony, reconciliation, social cohesion and intercultural understanding within the university community.
Career Guidance and Faculty Introductions
Thereafter, the Career Guidance Counsellor, University of Vavuniya, provided an overview of the career guidance and development activities the University conducts. He explained the opportunities available for students to develop their professional skills. He also discussed how students can enhance their employability and prepare for future employment.
Subsequently, the Dean, Faculty of Applied Science, introduced the Faculty. He briefed the participants on its academic environment, academic programmes, learning opportunities and educational activities relevant to the cultural exchange visit.
This was followed by an introduction from the Dean, Faculty of Technological Studies. He explained the academic programmes and technological learning environment. He also outlined opportunities available for students in the field of technology.
Interactive Session with Students and Staff
The academic staff and students subsequently held an interactive session as part of the programme. During the discussion, participants exchanged views and information on university education, academic activities, student development, career opportunities and institutional collaboration. The session gave visiting students an opportunity to gain direct knowledge of the academic and student-support environment of the University of Vavuniya. It also let them interact with academic and administrative personnel.
Closing Remarks
At the conclusion of the Educational and Cultural Exchange Programme, Dr. M. Abdul Jabbar delivered a thanking note. He expressed his special appreciation and thanks to the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Vavuniya. He thanked the Vice-Chancellor for granting permission and extending support for the successful conduct of the educational field visit. He also conveyed his gratitude to the Deans, Directors, academic staff members and all other participants who contributed to the successful organization and conduct of the programme.
Conclusion
Overall, the Educational and Cultural Exchange Programme gave undergraduate students of the Department of Political Science, South Eastern University of Sri Lanka, a valuable opportunity. They gained exposure to the academic, administrative and student-support environment of the University of Vavuniya. The programme also contributed to academic interaction, knowledge sharing, student development, career awareness and the strengthening of institutional relationships between the two universities.
