The University Business Linkage Cell of the University of Vavuniya, in collaboration with the students of the Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management (ESBM) program, successfully hosted the World Entrepreneurs’ Day and Industrial Exhibition – 2025.
The event took place on 25th and 26th August 2025 at the University of Vavuniya premises. It brought together academia, industry, and government institutions to promote entrepreneurship and innovation.
In addition, the exhibition attracted national, regional, and international stakeholders. It served as a platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Day One – Inauguration Ceremony
The first day was inaugurated by Hon. N. Vethanayagan, Governor of the Northern Province. Senior Professor A. Atputharajah, Vice Chancellor of the University of Vavuniya, also attended the ceremony.
Other distinguished guests included Ms. Vanaja, Director of the Northern Industrial Department, and Mr. Thillai Kumaran, Founder and Managing Director of Tamil Venture LP, USA.
Their presence highlighted strong collaboration between government, academia, industry, and international partners.
The program began with a welcome address by the Director of the Business Linkage Cell. This was followed by remarks from the Vice Chancellor and an introduction by the ESBM Program Coordinator.
Furthermore, the Northern Industrial Department presented insights on government support for entrepreneurs.
The day also included experience-sharing sessions by successful entrepreneurs. Outstanding business leaders were also recognized for their contributions.
In addition, a panel discussion was held on “Challenges of the Green Economy: Opportunities and Solutions.” The discussion focused on sustainability in agriculture, fisheries, and industry.
Exhibition Day Highlights
The exhibition day commenced at 9:30 a.m. with a cultural performance by the student band of Vavuniya Rambaikulam Girls’ Maha Vidyalayam.
The event was formally inaugurated by several distinguished national and international dignitaries.
These included Hon. R. Chandrasekaran, Minister of Fisheries; Hon. Arun Hemachandira, Minister of Foreign Employment; and Mr. S. Shri Sai Murali, Consul General of India in Jaffna.
Other key guests included Prof. N. Anandaraja (India), Prof. T. Jayasingam (Sri Lanka), Prof. T. Mangaleswaran, and Mr. K. S. Thurai (Denmark).
The event recorded nearly 1,000 participants and featured 200 exhibition stalls. This demonstrated strong student and industry engagement.
The programme included registration, lighting of the oil lamp, and national and entrepreneurial anthems. Cultural performances added vibrancy to the event.
Furthermore, a technical lecture on value addition in palmyrah and its by-products was delivered.
The day also featured the Entrepreneurial Student Awards Ceremony. Several distinguished contributors were also recognized.
In addition, a panel discussion was held on “Growth of Entrepreneurship in the North & East.” The discussion focused on challenges, opportunities, and sustainable development strategies for SMEs.
Conclusion and Impact
Overall, the event successfully strengthened entrepreneurship development in the region.
It also created strong connections between students, industry leaders, and policymakers.
In conclusion, the exhibition contributed significantly to regional economic development and innovation culture in Sri Lanka.
