The University of Vavuniya Staff Development Center, in collaboration with the University Research Committee, organized a “Research Grant Opportunities” session for the academic and administrative staff on 17th February 2026 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at TLH 1 Lecture Hall, Faculty of Technological Studies. The session was conducted by Eng. Mahesh Dissanayake (Head, Research Division & Technology Development and Innovation Division), Dr. Inoka Sandanayake (Scientific Officer, RD), Ms. Sarani Meneripitiya (Scientific Officer, TDID), Ms. Sumudu Gunasekara (Scientific Officer, RD), Mr. Ahamed Akram (Scientific Officer, TDID), and Mr. D.S. Shanuke (Scientific Officer, TDID), who provided detailed guidance on a wide range of National Science Foundation (NSF) grant schemes. Eng. Mahesh Dissanayake delivered an overview of the Grant Awareness Session, explaining the structure of NSF funding, application and monitoring procedures, and funding allocation based on Technology Readiness Levels (TRL), while also highlighting key research gaps such as limited research continuity, insufficient collaborations, and weak technology transfer mechanisms. Dr. Inoka Sandanayake elaborated on Research Grant Schemes including CRG, ICRP, GAPF, SUSRED, and IDR&D, outlining eligibility criteria, steps in developing high-quality research proposals, the proposal review process, and the role of working committees across disciplines. Ms. Sumudu Gunasekara further discussed additional schemes such as SCH, PDRF, Equipment and Spare Parts grants, and NID, emphasizing capacity building of the R&D workforce, research scholarships, and procedures for obtaining research equipment support. Ms. Sarani Meneripitiya explained the Technology Grant Schemes (Tech-D and Startup), detailing funding support for technology development, innovation, entrepreneurship, and budget preparation. The session concluded with an interactive discussion where participants clarified their doubts regarding grant opportunities and application processes. Overall, the programme provided comprehensive awareness of research and technology funding avenues, strengthened understanding of proposal development and grant administration, and motivated staff members to actively engage in research activities that contribute to institutional growth and national development.
