The Strategic Planning Workshop for 2026–2030 was conducted on 26th November 2025 at the Faculty of Business Studies, University of Vavuniya. The workshop featured distinguished resource persons Prof. Nigel L. Williams, Pro Vice-Chancellor (R & I), University of Portsmouth, UK, Prof. Y.Nanthagopan, Dean, Faculty of Business Studies and Prof. Poongothai Selvarajan, Department of Management and Entrepreneurship, University of Vavuniya.

Prof. Poongothai Selvarajan shared insights on global best practices in management faculties based on her academic experience, while Prof. Nigel L. Williams presented on redefining management education, emphasizing experiential learning, leadership development, and the use of technology to meet global business demands. The program also included thematic group discussions and presentations focusing on strengthening research culture, enhancing teaching and learning quality, expanding community outreach and stakeholder networking, improving student extracurricular activities, promoting entrepreneurship and MSME development, advancing diversity and inclusion, and ensuring good governance.

As part of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the ICIC, Faculty of Business Studies, and MAS Active Group (MAG), the English Level II Training Program for MAG staff (Batch VI) was conducted 25th November 2025. The program was facilitated by Ms. P. Sarmatha and Mr. A. Sebarajah, who served as the resource persons.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was formally signed on 25th November 2025 between the Department of Finance and Accountancy, Faculty of Business Studies, University of Vavuniya, and Abbey Accountants Lanka (Pvt) Limited with the objective of establishing a sustainable long term collaboration and structured career mentorship program. This partnership marks an important step toward strengthening industry–academia engagement and creating meaningful professional pathways for students.

The agreement was signed in the presence of the Vice Chancellor, the Dean of the Faculty of Business Studies, the Head of the Department, academic staff members, and university officials, together with the Manager of Abbey Accountants Lanka (Pvt) Limited. Their presence highlighted the institutional importance of the partnership and the shared commitment to enhancing academic and professional excellence.

The MoU supports joint professional development activities led by Abbey Accountants Lanka (Pvt) Limited, giving students and staff industry exposure while connecting academic learning with practical skills, mentorship, and career guidance to build employability and strengthen university’s industry collaboration.

The Department of Marketing Management signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Asia Chartered Institute of Digital Marketing (ACIDM) on 12th November 2025. The ceremony was graced by the Vice Chancellor, Dean of the Faculty of Business Studies, Head of the Department of Marketing Management, Acting Registrar, Bursar, Acting Librarian, Deans of other Faculties, Heads of other Departments, Assistant Registrar, Academic staff of the Department of Marketing Management, and students representing the University of Vavuniya.

This MoU fosters mutual benefits for both institutions, the community, and other stakeholders through collaborative initiatives, hands-on experience, and shared growth. It will further strengthen the digital marketing competencies of students through practical sessions and training programs.

A discussion with the Mines Advisory Group (MAG) was held on 16th October 2025. The meeting was graced by Senior Professor A. Atputharajah, Vice Chancellor; Professor Y. Nanthagopan, Dean, Faculty of Business Studies; Mr. S. Sivanenthira, ICIC Coordinator; MAG Country Director, Sri Lanka, and Mr. T. Senthoran, Skills Development Specialist. During the discussion, the MAG Country Director appreciated the University of Vavuniya for delivering impactful training programs that have enhanced the critical thinking and professional development of MAG staff.

Personal Finance Management training was conducted for Mines Advisory Group Staff – Batch I on 27th and 28th September 2025. Dr.K.Kalainathan, Mrs.Janaki Samuel Thevaruban, Mr. C.Larojan, Mrs. J.Manthahine and Mr.N.Pratheepan were the resource persons for this workshop.

The Department of HRM organized a field visit to Phoenix Ogilvy Advertising Services Agency on 26th August 2025 and Wathupitiwala Export Processing Zone, Wacoal Lanka (Pvt) Ltd on 27th August 2025 for the course unit ‘MAR 4143 – Application of HRM’ for the final year HRM students. The session was conducted by the HR Manager, Mr. Sudeera Kelum.

The Department of Marketing Management organized a field visit on 25th August 2025, for the course unit ‘MAR 4152 – Customer Relations in Marketing’ for the final year students, who follow the degree of Bachelor of Business Management, Honours in Marketing Management.

This visit was made with 31 students and two lecturers to Thunder & Neon Group, being one of the famous signage manufacturers in Sri Lanka. The Managing Director of Thunder & Neon Group conducted a session on the history of this company and their marketing and customer relationship strategies.

The Faculty of Business Studies conducted Career Guidance Seminar on 19th August 2025 (post conference events), with the objective of preparing undergraduates for future employment opportunities and career development.

The above seminar brought together resource persons from professional institutions (ACCA, SLIM, CIPM, PMI, IBSL and CFA Society) who shared valuable insights on career planning professional qualifications to 200 students from G.C.E A/L Commerce stream students representing Vavuniya South Zone. Another session also conducted for undergraduate students in University of Vavuniya. It was conducted in Tamil and English medium.

The Industrial Expo was inaugurated as part of RCBS to provide a platform for industry partners and students to showcase their innovations. The event was held on 18th and 19th August 2025 and featured the participation of approximately thirty (30) entrepreneurs from diverse industries.

The bi-annual newsletter 2025, Volume 06, Issue 01 launched at the faculty cultural event on 18th August 2025. The copies of the newsletter were received by the Vice Chancellor, Dean, Professors, Heads of the departments, Professional organizations, and executive staff of the university, and the other academic staff of the faculties from the chief editor Mrs. K.P.W.D.R.Weerasinghe.

The Faculty of Business Studies conducted the 6th Research Conference on Business Studies – 2025 on 18th August 2025, under the timely and thought-provoking theme “Emerging Business Trends: Paving the Way for the Future”. The event brought together academia, industry experts, and students to share insights into the latest advancements, challenges, and opportunities shaping the business world. The conference was organized in proud partnership with esteemed professional institutions, including the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM), Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), Institute of Certified Management Accountants (CMA), Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka (CA Sri Lanka), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM), Institute of Bankers of Sri Lanka (IBSL), Responsible Project Management, UK (RPM), and the Project Management Institute (PMI), Sri Lanka Chapter.

The Welcome Address was delivered by Mrs. V. Kajanthy, Conference Convener, followed by the Inaugural Address by Prof. Y. Nanthagopan, Conference Chair. Senior Professor A. Atutharajah, Vice Chancellor of the University of Vavuniya, delivered the Special Address, and the chief guest address was delivered by Senior Professor K. L. Wasantha Kumara, Vice Chairman of the University Grants Commission. A significant highlight of the inaugural session was the Launching of the Conference Proceedings, followed by Keynote Addresses by distinguished scholars and professionals. Senior Professor H. H. D. N. P. Opatha, Senior Professor and Chair of HRM at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura; Dr. Sammy Ying from the University of Newcastle, Australia; and Mr. Prasanna Sampathkumar, Regional Mentor – South Asia, Project Management Institute. This was followed by a panel discussion moderated by Prof. P. M. B. Jayathilake, Dean, Faculty of Management Studies, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka. The presidents and directors of institutional partner organizations participated as panel speakers and shared valuable insights into emerging practices in their respective professional fields and how these supports the future of business

The initiative aimed to strengthen collaboration with industry partners, provide a platform for strategic dialogue, and enhance student employability through structured internship opportunities.

The program was delivered in two segments: 01. Stakeholder Meeting – fostering industry–academia engagement and discussing evolving workforce expectations. 02. Internship Placement Interviews – facilitating direct interaction between students and potential employers. The event resulted in strengthened corporate partnerships, successful internship placements across multiple disciplines.

Students’ Club Awarding Ceremony was held on 18th August 2025. The Project Management Club has been crowned Champion in the Performance of Students’ Club Activities at the Faculty of Business Studies. The Marketing Club secured the 1st Runner-up position, while the Accounting and Finance Club achieved the 2nd Runner-up position for their outstanding performance. In addition, the Economics Club, Entrepreneurship Club, Human Resource Club, and Banking and Insurance Club were recognized for their Satisfactory Performance in the Performance of Students’ Club Activities.

The seven students from the seven-degree programs launched their magazines on 18th August 2025. The Department of Accounting and Finance (Banking and Insurance Degree Program), presents “Bank Insure Today”; The Department of Management and Entrepreneurship presents “Visionpreneur”; The Department of Project Management is proud to unveil “Project Manager”; The Department of Accounting and Finance presents “FINROOT”; The Department of Human Resource Management launch of “HR Wisdom”; The Department of Economics, release its magazine, “Econoblogger”; The Department of Marketing release of its magazine, “Marketing Sparks”.

The workshop on Agile Practices and Agility, held on 17th August 2025, brought together fourth-year Project Management students, faculty members, and industry experts, including Mr. Aruna Kooragamage from PMI Colombo. The goals of this session were the introducing students to Agile principles, demonstrating practical applications.

The Department of Marketing Management organized the Undergraduate Research Symposium on Marketing – 2025 themed as “Transcending Boundaries: Marketing for a Transformative Era” on 14th August 2025.

The conference includes professional partners: University of Jaffna, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, South Eastern University of Sri Lanka, Eastern University of Sri Lanka, and industrial partners were the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing, LOLC General Insurance, LOLC Life Assurance, Asia Chartered Institute of Digital Marketing, Ontomatrix, and Amana Takaful Insurance Life. The keynote addresses were delivered by Dr. S.C. Pramathilaka, Deputy General Manager, SLIM, Mr. M.V. Puviraj, Assistant General Manager, Amana Takaful Life PLC and Mr. D. Maldeniya, Head of Agency Development and Administration, LOLC General Insurance PLC.

The Undergraduate Research Symposium on Accounting and Finance – 2025, organized by the Department of Finance and Accountancy on 25th July 2025 under the theme “Innovating sustainability through responsible accounting and finance,” provided an academic platform for undergraduates to present research, engage in critical discussion, and receive constructive feedback. The keynote address was delivered by Mr.A. Arunthavarajah, Head, Audit and Assurance, IBS University, Papua New Guinea.

The 1st Undergraduate Research Symposium on Business Economics (URSBE-2025) was held on 23rd July 2025. The keynote address was delivered by Professor S.P. Premaratne of the University of Colombo, offered deep insights into contemporary economic challenges and opportunities for Sri Lanka. A total of 30 research papers were presented across six thematic tracks, reflecting the diverse academic interests of the participants.

The Undergraduate Research Symposium on Human Resource Management was held on 20th July 2025, in collaboration with the University of Jaffna, providing a dynamic platform for undergraduate students to showcase their research and innovative ideas in the field of HRM. The keynote speakers were Dr. K.G. Priyashantha Senior Lecturer, Dep of HRM, University of Ruhuna and Prof. T. Raveendran, Dep of HRM, University of Jaffna.

This collaboration between the University of Vavuniya and the University of Jaffna strengthened academic ties, promoted research culture, and encouraged cross-institutional learning. The symposium not only celebrated the scholarly achievements of undergraduates but also inspired participants to pursue further research that addresses real-world HR challenges and contributes to the development of the profession.

LOLC Life Assurance Ltd & General Insurance PLC, and the Department of Marketing Management, Faculty of Business Studies signed a Memorandum of Understanding on 25th June 2025. This MoU represents a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening academic-industry collaboration, with particular emphasis on enhancing student employability, facilitating internship opportunities, and fostering joint academic and professional initiatives.

Amana Takaful PLC and the Department of Marketing Management, Faculty of Business Studies signed a Memorandum of Understanding on 23rd June 2025. This collaboration marks a new chapter in fostering knowledge, innovation, and industry engagement. It serves as a platform for bridging the gap between academia and the professional world, enabling students and faculty to gain real-world insights and hands-on experiences.

The Second Key Consultees Workshop on the PMI Global Accreditation was conducted by the Department of Project Management on 20th June 2025, as a continuation of the department’s strategic effort toward PMIGAC accreditation. Following the initial consultative workshop, this second workshop was designed to validate updates made to the SAR, close evidence gaps, and strengthen compliance with PMIGAC’s six accreditation standards. The workshop was enriched by the insights of Prof. Suresh Surendran, who served as the honorary visiting professor, providing expert guidance on accreditation standards and documentation strategies.

The Undergraduate Research Symposium on Project Management (URSPM) – 2025 was organized by the Department of Project Management, Faculty of Business Studies, under the theme “Innovative Practices in Project Management.” This academic event provided an invaluable platform for final-year undergraduate students to present their research findings, engage in scholarly discourse, and interact with academic and industry experts.

The Career Guidance Cell of the Faculty of Business Studies organized a webinar titled “Beyond Borders! Career & Global Pathways” on 19th June 2025. The session featured two esteemed resource persons: Mr. K. Kirishanth, CEO of Next Level Education Consultancy (Pvt) Ltd, and Mr. S. Vijithan, Senior Marketing and Business Development Executive, Next Level Education (Pvt) Ltd. Approximately 60 students participated in the webinar and gained valuable insights into global career opportunities and leveraging digital platforms for professional growth.

The Department of Finance and Accountancy organized a workshop on 19th June 2025. It was coordinated by CMA, Sri Lanka on “Future-Proofing your career for 2030 & Beyond” for the third year and final year students specializing in Accounting and Finance in the Faculty of Business Studies. The resource person for this workshop was Mr. Thilina Bandara. The session aimed to enhance the knowledge regarding future career opportunities.

The English Language Training Session – Level II, Batch V for MAG (Mines Advisory Group) operation staff commenced on 26th March 2025. This initiative aimed to enhance the English communication skills of MAG personnel to support their operational effectiveness and professional development. A total of 50 MAG staff members participated in this training program. The sessions were conducted by Mrs. P. Sarmatha, Senior Lecturer G II, and Mr. A. Sebarajah, Instructor in English G II.

Department of Management and Entrepreneurship arranged a field visit to ReeCha Hotel, Kilinochchi, on 14th March 2025 for second-year students. The primary objective is to provide students with real-world exposure, enabling them to interact with entrepreneurs, understand market dynamics, and develop innovative and practical business ideas.

The Department of Marketing Management organized a field visit for the Course Unit “MAR 3213-Hospitality Management” on 07th March 2025 to Umandawa, Global Buddhist Spiritual Village, Melsiripura, Kurunegala. Totally, 31 students participated in the visit. The main objectives of the field visit are to examine the marketing strategies used by Umandawa Global Tourism Village and understand how they incorporate sustainability and cultural tourism into their hospitality offerings.

The industrial training program was organized by the Department of Finance and Accountancy, in collaboration with AIA, on 21st February 2025, at Hotel Northway, Vavuniya. This program aims to enhance understanding of industry operations and provide networking opportunities for the students with industry professionals.

The Faculty of Business Studies takes immense pride in honoring the remarkable legacy of the late Professor A. Pushpanathan, whose visionary leadership, academic excellence, and unwavering dedication left an indelible mark on the university community. On 19th February 2025, the Plantation Day was organized as a heartfelt tribute to commemorate his outstanding contributions to the faculty and the broader academic sphere.

Prof. (Dr.) Ambalam Pushpanathan was born on 24th March 1964 in Vathiry, Alvai, Point Pedro, Jaffna. He completed his schooling from Grade One to Advanced Level at J/Thevanayali Hindu College. He obtained his Bachelor of Business Administration in 1989 from the University of Jaffna, a Postgraduate Diploma in Management in 1996 from Project Management Institute, Sri Jayewardenepura University, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Management Science (Enterprise Management) from Xiamen University, China, in 2008. In 2006, he was honored with the Best International Student Encouragement Award at Xiamen University.

Prof. Pushpanathan was a distinguished academic and dedicated educator who served at the University of Vavuniya since 1994. He was promoted to the rank of Professor in Management on 22nd December 2021. Throughout his illustrious career, he made significant contributions to the fields of Entrepreneurship, Small Business Development, and Marketing Management. By planting trees and enhancing green spaces, the event served as a living memorial that reflects his values and continues to give back to the environment-just as he offered himself so generously to the University of Vavuniya.

The bi-annual Newsletter 2024, Volume 05, Issue II, was launched at the Faculty of Business Studies board room on 13th February 2025 in the presence of the Newsletter committee members and faculty board members. Copies of the newsletter were officially received by the Dean, Professors, Heads of Departments, and faculty board members from the Chairperson, Mrs. K.P.W.D.R. Weerasinghe.

The AIA Insurance Lanka Limited and the University of Vavuniya signed a Memorandum of Understanding on 07th February 2025. The MoU aims to facilitate academic collaboration, knowledge exchange, and capacity building to execute the spirit of cooperation between the parties to develop competent insurance professionals to serve the region and the nation.

The Certificate in Professional English course program was inaugurated for the third batch on 26th January 2025. The course is coordinated by the Industry and Community Interaction Cell (ICIC) of the Faculty of Business Studies. The event was graced by Special Guest, Prof. Y. Nanthagopan, Dean of the Faculty of Business Studies; and guest Ms. D. Gapila, one of the course resource persons.

An English Awareness and Enhancement Seminar for Advanced Level students was held on 18th January 2025 at Mn/Sithivinayagar Hindu College, Mannar. Organized by the Department of English Language Teaching with Mannar Education Zone and the Institute of English, the seminar focused on writing and speaking skills while promoting the university’s academic programs. Coordinated by Mr. A. Sebarajah, approximately 30 students attended and shared positive feedback about the interactive sessions.

A three-day TOEFL-Benchmarked Speaking and Writing Workshop was hosted by the Department of English Language Teaching from 16th to 18th January 2025, facilitated by Jennifer Goodman, an English Language Fellow enlisted by the U.S. Department of State. The workshop aimed to enhance the speaking and writing skills of students and faculty members, benchmarked to TOEFL standards. It catered to participants from various faculties, including Business Studies, Technological Studies, Applied Science, and staff from the Department of English Language Teaching. Additionally, a session was held for A/L qualified participants at Siththivinayagar School, Mannar.

A Key Consultees Workshop was conducted on 3rd January 2025 as part of the review process for the Bachelor of Business Management (Honors) in Project Management degree program. Stakeholders included faculty members, alumni, industry representatives, and academics. The workshop, facilitated by Prof. Suresh Surendiran (former Professor, Coventry University, UK), reviewed current modules and recommended enhancements aligned with PMI standards and GAC guidance.

A meeting was held with senior officials of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants on 28th May 2024. The meeting was organized to discuss signing the agreement and to have the faculty program accredited for exemptions.

Northern Chamber of Industries (NCI) and Faculty of Business Studies signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a collaborative partnership aimed at promoting entrepreneurship, skills development, and industry engagement in Sri Lanka’s Northern Province on 24th April 2024. This MoU signifies a mutual commitment to support academic industry linkages by facilitating student internships, field visits, workshops, and collaborative events. It includes provisions for guest lectures, career guidance sessions, and sponsorship opportunities for research and innovation initiatives.

The inauguration ceremony for the Second-Year Higher Diploma in English was held on the 01st of February 2025. This event marked the official commencement of the second-year program, which aims to further enhance students’ proficiency in English and prepare them for advanced academic and professional endeavors. Students who successfully completed the First-Year Diploma in English, offered by the Department of English Language Teaching under the Faculty of Business Studies, were admitted to continue their studies in the Second-Year Higher Diploma in English program.

The Inauguration Ceremony for the academic year 2023/2024 was organized by the Faculty of Business Studies on the 23rd of April 2025. During the inauguration ceremony, the Dean of the Faculty of Business Studies, Prof. Y. Nanthagopan, warmly welcomed the incoming students and encouraged them to embrace their journey at the university. This was followed by the inaugural address delivered by the Senior. Prof. A. Arputharajah, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Vavuniya. The heads of Departments and faculty members also extended their greetings and best wishes to the new students.

The orientation program for the new academic year was started from the 24th of April to the 2nd of May 2025. The program aimed to familiarize the new students with the university’s educational environment, academic regulations, and available facilities. The program featured a variety of informative and interactive sessions designed to support students in their academic and personal development.

A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Department of Finance and Accountancy, Faculty of Business Studies, University of Vavuniya, and the CFA Society Sri Lanka on the 22nd of April 2025, at Colombo Club, Taj Samudra Hotel, with the objective of establishing a long-term collaborative relationship to promote ethics and industry best practices upheld by the CFA, and to provide career mentorship program and facilitate resource personnel for guest lectures and other knowledge sharing initiatives and to improve learning and the marketability of graduates.

The Strategic Planning and Review Workshop organised by the Faculty of Business Studies was conducted on Wednesday, 18th December 2024, from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM. The event took place at the Project Management Building of the Faculty of Business Studies.

Resource Persons included Prof Y. Nanthagopan (Chairperson, Committee for Strategic Planning and Monitoring), Prof Suresh Surendran (Visiting Professor), and Mr. S. Harikaran (Coordinator).

Event Highlights: Registration commenced at 8:30 AM. The Dean emphasized stakeholders’ importance in strategic planning and monitoring, outlined challenges, risks, and necessary improvements. The Vice Chancellor emphasized the significance of strategy, leadership, and strategic planning in achieving institutional goals.

Thematic Group Discussions focused on: (1) Enhancing the Research Culture, (2) Improving quality of teaching and learning, (3) Improving student extracurricular activities, (4) Promoting community outreach activities, and (5) Growing as an entrepreneurial faculty.

The Department of Project Management organized a field study visit for fourth-year students to project-based organizations in Colombo on 25th-26th September 2024. The visit included Port City Colombo, the Central Environmental Authority, Lotus Tower, and Unidil Packaging. It supported students to identify real-world project management practices in construction, environmental management, and manufacturing.

The bi-annual newsletter 2024, Volume 05, Issue 01 launched at the Faculty of Business Studies board room on 04th September 2024, with the presence of Newsletter committee members and faculty board members. The copies of the newsletter were received by the Dean, Professors, Heads of the departments, and the members of the faculty board from the Chairperson Mrs. K.P.W.D.R. Weerasinghe.

Alumni Association of the Faculty of Business Studies arranged seminar on 15th July 2024 for both undergraduates and graduates. It guided students to explore the opportunities to study abroad.

Alumni Association of the Faculty of Business Studies arranged this seminar on 25th July 2024 by Alumni members. It focused on helping participants to navigate their career paths by enhancing awareness of opportunities, developing key skills like resume writing and interview preparation, and building confidence through real-world scenarios.

The Faculty of Business Studies formed a vessel of research called Centre for Business Research on the recommendation of the Senate and the approval of the Council at its 32nd meeting held on 27th of July 2024. The aim of this initiative is to gain, disseminate, and share the research exposure among the faculty academic staff in order to improve their research capacity through availability of internal and external experts and events in research, especially in business minded research. Mr. G.R.M Gamlath has been appointed as the first coordinator of the Centre for Business Research.

The inauguration ceremony for the 2022/2023 academic year was organized on 29th July 2024. The Dean, Prof.Y.Nanthagopan addressed the students and warmly welcomed them to be a part of this historic institution. The inaugural speech was delivered by the vice chancellor, Prof. A. Atputharajah. All the heads of the departments of the Faculty of Business Studies and staff members also welcomed the newcomers and gave them words of wisdom and blessings.

The orientation program for the academic year 2022/2023 was conducted from 31st July to 28th August 2024 to acquaint the new students with the university education system, academic rules and facilities in the university. During the orientation program days, the students were engaged under various sessions such as LMS, ZOOM & Cyber Security, Students Code of conduct, 946 Circular and Students Life at University, Introducing Student & Welfare Division, Introducing the role of senior students counselor, Introducing the Mentoring System of the Faculty of Business Studies and the Role of the Library in University Education.

The Student Union, Faculty of Business Studies organized “FOBS-2024”, from the 31st August 2024 until the 11th September 2024. The objectives of this event are to promote togetherness, sportsmanship, and healthy competition among students in the faculty. Ultimately, fourth-year students secured the championship with a total of 257 points, while third-year students attained first runner-up with 250 points, and second-year students gained second runner-up with 181 points.

Forty students and staff from University of Ruhuna visited Faculty of Business Studies on 10th December 2024. The aim of this visit is to make the collaboration among the students and share a variety of resources and experiences, fostering collaboration and community. The event was highlighted the topics on Ramayana concept, tourism and destination culture.

Cultural Night and awarding ceremony was held on 31st September 2024, at the faculty premises. The student clubs were awarded to the top three students clubs based on the performance reviewed by the independent evaluation panel. The first place was won by the accounting club, second and third place were won by the PM club and HR club. The students research excellence awards were provided to the students those who got overall best results for their final year dissertation works in 2017/2018 batch. The night also featured amazing performances, showcasing the diverse talents of students.

Internship Placement Interviews were conducted with thirty organizations on 01st October 2024 by the Faculty of Business Studies. The organizations interviewed final year students for six months internship and job placement.

The Faculty of Business Studies invited six professional bodies, including the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka (CA Sri Lanka), the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM), the Institute of Certified Management Accountants of Sri Lanka (CMA), Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM), Institute of Bankers of Sri Lanka (IBSL), and Project Management Institute for a Career Guidance Seminars on 01st October 2024. The seminar targeted both undergraduates and school students, providing career advice and information on professional courses.

An industry exhibition was inaugurated at the Faculty of Business Studies premises as a part of the RCBS conference on 30th September and 01st October 2024. The exhibition featured 50 local entrepreneurs showcasing their products and services, highlighting innovation and entrepreneurial growth in the region. The event provided a platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and fostering business opportunities between the university community and local entrepreneurs.

The Faculty of Business Studies arranged 5th RCBS on 30th September 2024, under the theme of “Unlocking Business Frontiers: Exploring Innovations and Knowledge Diffusion”, attracted participants from various business sectors, academic institutions, and industries. The opening speeches included a Chief Guest Speech by Prof. Sampath Amarathunge, Chairman of the University Grants Commission, Sri Lanka, and a Keynote Speech by Prof. Arosha S. Adikaram, Professor of HRM, University of Colombo. The conference featured multiple special guest speeches, panel discussions, and technical sessions with nearly 70 authors presenting 49 papers across multiple disciplines including finance, human resources, marketing, economics, project management, entrepreneurship, and tourism.

The internship placement interviews were held at the Faculty of Business Studies, University of Vavuniya, on 14th December 2023. The interviews provided final year students with opportunities to secure six-month internship placements with various organizations. Representatives from leading companies and institutions conducted the interviews to assess students’ skills, knowledge, and suitability for different roles. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical industry experience, enhancing students’ employability and professional development.

The event saw participation from numerous organizations across different sectors, offering students diverse internship opportunities in fields such as finance, marketing, project management, and human resources. Students prepared thoroughly for the interviews, showcasing their academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and career aspirations.

The 2nd Advisory Board Meeting of the MSMEs Facilitation Hub of the Faculty of Business Studies was held on 14th December 2023. The meeting brought together industry experts, academic professionals, and community stakeholders to review the progress of the MSMEs Facilitation Hub and strategize future initiatives. Discussions focused on enhancing support mechanisms for micro, small, and medium enterprises in the region through capacity building, resource sharing, and market access facilitation.

Key agenda items included reviewing ongoing projects, discussing collaboration opportunities with industry partners, and planning training programs for entrepreneurs. The advisory board members provided valuable insights and recommendations to strengthen the hub’s impact on local economic development and entrepreneurship promotion.

Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM) conducted a comprehensive session on “Personal Branding & Interview Skills” for students of the Faculty of Business Studies. The workshop focused on helping students develop their professional identity and master interview techniques essential for career success. Participants learned about creating effective personal brands, developing elevator pitches, and presenting themselves confidently in professional settings.

The session included practical exercises, mock interviews, and personalized feedback from CIPM professionals. Students gained insights into current recruitment trends, employer expectations, and strategies to stand out in competitive job markets. The workshop emphasized the importance of digital presence, professional networking, and continuous skill development.

Strategic Planning and Review Workshop of the Faculty of Business Studies was held on 14th December 2023. The workshop brought together faculty members, administrative staff, and student representatives to evaluate current strategies and develop future plans for academic and institutional growth. Participants engaged in discussions about enhancing teaching quality, research productivity, student services, and community engagement.

The workshop utilized SWOT analysis and other strategic planning tools to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Working groups were formed to address specific strategic areas, resulting in actionable recommendations for implementation in the coming academic year. The outcomes of the workshop will guide the faculty’s development initiatives and resource allocation decisions.

Printed version of Vavuniya Journal of Business Management (VJBM) – Volume 5 Issue II was released at the 213th meeting of the faculty board. This academic publication features research articles, case studies, and theoretical papers from scholars in various business disciplines. The journal serves as a platform for disseminating cutting-edge research and promoting academic discourse in business and management studies.

This edition includes contributions from both local and international researchers, covering topics such as sustainable business practices, digital transformation, financial innovation, and organizational behavior. The publication reinforces the faculty’s commitment to research excellence and knowledge creation, providing valuable resources for academics, practitioners, and students.

The Faculty of Business Studies, University of Vavuniya, has signed an agreement with the Asian Foundation to develop entrepreneurs’ capacities through a comprehensive Business Development Fellowship Programme. This initiative aims to equip aspiring and existing entrepreneurs with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to start, grow, and sustain successful businesses.

The programme includes training modules on business planning, financial management, marketing strategies, and innovation. Participants receive mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts, along with access to networking opportunities and potential funding sources. The fellowship emphasizes practical learning, with participants working on real business projects and receiving personalized guidance throughout the programme duration.

The webinar was conducted by Department of Business Economics, Faculty of Business Studies on 28th November 2023. The session provided an in-depth analysis of Sri Lanka’s national budget for 2024, examining its implications for various economic sectors, business environment, and overall economic growth. Experts from academia, industry, and government participated in the discussion, offering diverse perspectives on the budget’s strengths, challenges, and potential impacts.

Key discussion points included fiscal policies, taxation changes, investment incentives, and social welfare measures outlined in the budget. The webinar also explored the budget’s alignment with national development goals and its potential effects on inflation, employment, and economic stability. Participants engaged in Q&A sessions, gaining valuable insights for business planning and decision-making.

The workshop on BBM external degree program curriculum development was held on 06th November 2023. Academic staff, industry representatives, and curriculum experts collaborated to review and enhance the Bachelor of Business Management external degree programme. The workshop focused on aligning the curriculum with current industry needs, emerging business trends, and international educational standards.

Participants examined course structures, learning outcomes, assessment methods, and teaching methodologies. Special attention was given to incorporating digital skills, sustainability concepts, and practical applications into the curriculum. The revised programme aims to provide flexible learning opportunities for working professionals and distance learners while maintaining academic rigor and relevance to contemporary business challenges.

The Faculty of Business Studies arranged field visits for students studying Entrepreneurship and Portfolio Management subjects. These visits provided students with firsthand experience of real-world business operations, entrepreneurial ventures, and investment management practices. Students visited various enterprises, including startups, established businesses, and financial institutions, gaining practical insights into business challenges and opportunities.

During the visits, students interacted with entrepreneurs, business owners, and industry professionals, learning about business strategies, risk management, innovation processes, and portfolio diversification. The field experiences complemented classroom learning, helping students connect theoretical concepts with practical applications. Students prepared visit reports and presentations, reflecting on their learning and observations.

The awarding ceremony was held on 07th September 2023 at the faculty premises to enhance students’ extracurricular activities. The event recognized outstanding achievements of student clubs in organizing academic, cultural, and social activities throughout the year. Awards were presented in various categories, including best organized event, most innovative initiative, highest membership engagement, and community service impact.

The ceremony celebrated the efforts of student leaders and club members who contributed to campus life and student development. Special recognition was given to clubs that demonstrated exceptional commitment to their respective fields, whether in accounting, marketing, human resources, project management, or entrepreneurship. The event also included cultural performances and networking opportunities, fostering camaraderie among students from different departments and academic years.

Inaugural Event for Micro Small Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) of the Faculty of Business Studies was held on 20th December 2022. The event marked the official launch of the MSMEs Facilitation Hub, established to support the growth and development of micro, small, and medium enterprises in the region. The inauguration ceremony featured keynote addresses, panel discussions, and networking sessions with entrepreneurs, industry experts, and academic professionals.

The hub aims to provide comprehensive support services including business advisory, capacity building, market linkages, and access to finance. It serves as a platform for knowledge exchange, innovation promotion, and collaborative initiatives between academia and the business community. The inaugural event also included success stories from local entrepreneurs and demonstrations of innovative business solutions developed through university-industry collaboration.

The Industry and Community Interaction Cell of the Faculty of Business Studies and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) signed an agreement to launch a Youth Leadership Program. This collaboration aims to develop leadership skills among young people, enhance their civic engagement, and prepare them for future leadership roles in various sectors. The program focuses on capacity building, mentorship, and practical experience in community development and social entrepreneurship.

The agreement outlines collaborative activities including leadership workshops, community projects, internship opportunities, and networking events. The program targets university students and young community leaders, providing them with tools and platforms to address social challenges and contribute to sustainable development. The partnership leverages UNDP’s expertise in youth development and the faculty’s academic resources to create meaningful impact in the region.

The Department of Project Management, Faculty of Business Studies signed Memoranda of Understanding with Vanni Rehabilitation Organization, FIRM, AMCOR, and AU Lanka. These agreements establish formal partnerships for collaborative projects, community development initiatives, and student engagement activities. The MoUs focus on areas such as sustainable development, social entrepreneurship, community empowerment, and capacity building.

Each partnership brings unique opportunities for students to work on real-world projects, conduct community-based research, and gain practical experience in project management and community development. The collaborations also provide platforms for knowledge exchange, resource sharing, and joint initiatives that address community needs while enhancing students’ learning experiences. Regular review mechanisms are established to monitor progress and ensure mutual benefits from the partnerships.

Strategic Planning and Review Workshop of the Faculty of Business Studies was held on 09th November 2022. The workshop focused on developing a comprehensive 5-year strategic plan (2023-2027) to guide the faculty’s growth and development. Participants included faculty members, administrative staff, student representatives, and external stakeholders who contributed diverse perspectives to the planning process.

The strategic planning exercise examined the faculty’s vision, mission, and core values, identifying strategic priorities across teaching, research, community engagement, and institutional development. Working groups developed detailed action plans with specific objectives, timelines, and performance indicators. The resulting strategic document serves as a roadmap for resource allocation, quality enhancement, and continuous improvement initiatives over the five-year period.

Vavuniya Journal of Business Management (VJBM) Volume 05-Issue-I (2022), a bi-annual academic journal was published. This edition features peer-reviewed research articles, theoretical papers, and case studies covering various aspects of business and management. The journal serves as an important platform for disseminating research findings and promoting scholarly discourse among academics, researchers, and practitioners.

The published papers address contemporary issues in business management, including digital transformation, sustainable business practices, organizational behavior, marketing innovation, and financial management. The journal maintains rigorous review standards and editorial processes to ensure academic quality and relevance. Publication in VJBM provides recognition for researchers and contributes to the advancement of knowledge in business and management disciplines.

In commemoration of late Dr. N. Balakrishnan, a memorial lecture was organized by the Department of Business Economics on 29th December 2021. The event honored Dr. Balakrishnan’s contributions to the university and his legacy in business education and community service. Family members, colleagues, students, and alumni participated in the memorial activities, sharing memories and reflections on his impact.

The memorial lecture featured presentations on topics aligned with Dr. Balakrishnan’s academic interests and professional contributions. Speakers highlighted his dedication to academic excellence, student development, and institutional growth. The event also included the unveiling of a commemorative plaque and the establishment of a memorial fund to support student scholarships and academic initiatives in his honor.

The Faculty of Business Studies conducted its strategic planning workshop on 28th December 2021 to revise its strategic goals and strategies. The workshop brought together faculty leadership, department heads, and key stakeholders to assess progress on existing strategic objectives and develop updated plans for future development. The review considered changing educational landscapes, emerging industry trends, and evolving student needs.

Working sessions focused on key strategic areas including academic program development, research enhancement, community engagement, infrastructure improvement, and internationalization. Participants used data analysis, benchmarking, and scenario planning to inform strategic decisions. The outcomes included revised strategic priorities, implementation timelines, and performance measurement frameworks to guide the faculty’s development over the coming years.

The Department of Finance and Accountancy organized a seminar on “Contemporary Issues in Finance” on 27th December 2021. The seminar addressed current challenges, trends, and developments in the financial sector, providing insights for students, academics, and practitioners. Expert speakers from academia, financial institutions, and regulatory bodies shared their perspectives on topics such as digital finance, sustainable investing, financial regulation, and economic recovery.

Discussion sessions explored implications of technological advancements, changing consumer behaviors, and global economic shifts for financial management practices. Participants engaged in interactive Q&A sessions, gaining practical knowledge applicable to their studies and professional careers. The seminar also provided networking opportunities and exposed participants to diverse viewpoints on financial industry evolution.

The workshop on Strategic Planning Review of the Faculty of Business Studies was held on 17th December 2020 at the faculty board room. The review workshop assessed progress on strategic initiatives implemented during the previous planning period and identified areas for adjustment or enhancement. Participants analyzed performance data, stakeholder feedback, and environmental changes affecting the faculty’s operations and strategic direction.

Working sessions focused on evaluating achievement of strategic objectives, identifying implementation challenges, and recognizing successful initiatives. The review informed adjustments to strategic priorities and action plans for the remaining planning period. Outcomes included updated implementation timelines, resource reallocation decisions, and revised performance indicators to better track progress and impact of strategic initiatives.

The Faculty Plantation and Beautification Committee conducted plantation activities from December 5th – 9th 2020. The tree plantation initiative aimed to enhance the campus environment, promote environmental sustainability, and create green spaces for students and staff. Activities included planting various tree species in designated areas around the faculty buildings and campus grounds.

Students, faculty members, and administrative staff participated in the plantation activities, learning about tree species, planting techniques, and environmental conservation. The event also included educational sessions on the importance of trees for ecosystem services, climate regulation, and campus aesthetics. Each planted tree was tagged with information about the species and planting date, with arrangements for ongoing care and maintenance.

The 3rd Research Conference on Business Studies (RCBS) — 2020 was held on 26th October 2020 in both physical and virtual modes. The hybrid conference format accommodated participants’ preferences and accessibility needs during the pandemic period. The conference theme focused on business resilience and adaptation in changing environments, reflecting contemporary challenges and opportunities.

The event featured keynote addresses by distinguished scholars, parallel paper presentation sessions, and interactive panel discussions. Research papers covered diverse business disciplines with emphasis on pandemic responses, digital transformation, supply chain resilience, and sustainable business practices. Proceedings were published electronically, providing open access to conference papers and expanding dissemination of research findings.