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The Center for Gender Equity and Equality (CGEE) of the University of Jaffna organized the “Pre-Symposium Stakeholders’ Workshop” on 30th September 2024 at Saraswati Hall, as part of the lead-up to the Viyomam International Research Symposium – 2024. This event was a key feature of the University of Jaffna’s Golden Jubilee celebrations and formed a crucial component of the Jaffna University International Research Conference (JUICE-2024). The Pre-Symposium Stakeholders’ Workshop marked a significant milestone in advancing discussions around gender equality and social inclusion (GESI).

The Viyomam International Research Symposium – 2024, with its theme “Multidisciplinary and Integrated Perspectives on Gender Mainstreaming”, will serve as a dynamic platform for global scholars, policymakers, and practitioners. It aims to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge sharing on gender-related issues, promoting equity and social justice. By inviting submissions of abstracts of research, case studies, success stories, and project reports, the symposium will highlight diverse perspectives and innovative approaches toward achieving gender equality.

The Pre-Symposium Stakeholders’ Workshop was fully sponsored by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in Sri Lanka. The event brought together a diverse range of stakeholders, including INGOs, NGOs, government agencies, service-based private organizations, international organizations, and 100 representatives from community organizations. This collaborative gathering provided a platform for key voices to engage in meaningful discussions on GESI, laying the groundwork for the upcoming symposium.

Participants at the workshop focused on critical issues related to GESI, exchanging ideas  and experiences  to shape future actions in both  local and global contexts. The workshop facilitated in-depth dialogues among stakeholders, enhancing understanding and fostering partnerships for collaborative action.

This workshop is a crucial step toward advancing gender equity and equality, not only in Sri Lanka but also globally. By bringing together a broad range of stakeholders, the University of Jaffna, in collaboration with UNDP, is creating a platform for ongoing dialogue and action on GESI. The discussions during the workshop informed the specifics of the Viyomam International Research Symposium – 2024, ensuring that the voices of rural communities and other key groups are heard in the global conversation on gender mainstreaming.

The Pre-Symposium Stakeholders’ Workshop was an enriching and insightful event, setting the stage for the upcoming Viyomam International Research Symposium – 2024. The University of Jaffna’s commitment to promoting gender equity and interdisciplinary collaboration was evident throughout the workshop, and the event successfully paved the way for more inclusive and impactful discussions at the symposium. With the support of partners like UNDP, the University of Jaffna is positioned to lead in the global effort toward achieving gender equality and social inclusion.

On October 11th, 2024, the Centre for Gender Equity and Equality (CGEE), in collaboration with the Staff Development Centre (SDC) of the University of Jaffna and the Women’s Education and Research Centre (WERC), Colombo successfully inaugurated the second batch of the Certificate Course in Women’s Studies. The program was organized by the course coordinator, Dr. (Mrs.) Dilogini Sangarathas, and the inaugural ceremony was graced by the presence of Professor S. Srisatkunarajah, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jaffna, along with Prof. (Ms.) S.Shanmugathas (Director/CGEE, Prof.R.Vijayakumaran (Director/Staff Development Centre, University of Jaffna), and Mrs. Shiranee Mills (Executive Director, Women’s Education and Research Centre (WERC)). The course aims to promote the understanding of gender issues, enhance equity, and empower individuals within the local community. It is designed to equip participants with critical knowledge on gender studies, feminist theory, and the challenges women face in their daily lives.

The Certificate Course in Women’s Studies is intended to provide students with a thorough understanding of the key issues surrounding gender equality and empowerment. With a focus on feminist perspectives and gender analysis, the course covers important themes such as gender mainstreaming, violence against women, identity and power dynamics, and the role of women in the economy. It also addresses contemporary challenges such as sexual and gender-based violence, providing students with the tools to understand and advocate for gender equity within their communities.

This second batch of students represents a critical step forward in the promotion of gender equality in the region. The course is fully funded by the Feminist Opportunities Network (FON) project, which is committed to fostering inclusive spaces for learning and empowerment. The FON project, led by CERA, plays an instrumental role in supporting the course by offering financial resources, materials, and capacity-building support to ensure that 25 students have access to this valuable educational opportunity.

The course plays a vital role in empowering women and addressing gender-based inequalities within the local community. By educating participants on the complexities of gender dynamics and providing them with skills to address inequities, the course has the potential to create a ripple effect, as students apply their knowledge to real-world situations in their communities. The curriculum is designed to be not only academic but also practical, with a focus on real-world applications, ensuring that the knowledge gained is directly translatable into efforts to achieve social justice and gender equity.

The inauguration of the second batch of the Certificate Course in Women’s Studies is a testament to the continued efforts of the CGEE, SDC, and WERC in promoting gender equality in the region. The course is well-positioned to create meaningful change, offering students the opportunity to engage deeply with gender issues and equipping them to be advocates for equality and justice in their own communities. The program’s ongoing success demonstrates the importance of collaborative efforts and the power of education in advancing gender equity.

The Centre for Gender Equity and Equality, University of Jaffna in collaboration with the Indian Embassy, Divisional Secretariat Mullaitivu, Puthkkudiyiruppu Divisional Secretariat office, Mullaitivu District Secretariat office, and OfRR Ceylon celebrated Women’s Day 2024 on February 19th, 2024, Tuesday, from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Puthkkudiyiruppu. Main Funding for the event was provided by the Indian Embassy-Jaffna and OfERRCeylon. Mr. A. Umamaheswaran, the District Secretariat of Mullaitivu District, headed the event, while Professor S. Srisatkunarajah, the Vice-Chancellor of the university as chief guest and , Mr.S.Saimurali Indian Console General, Mr.S.Manoj Kumar Console graced the occasion as guest of honours . Guests were welcomed with the Kudamuthat kummi dance performed by Venavil Kalaimagal Kalamantra students. An entrepreneurial exhibition was inaugurated at the event to showcase the products of women entrepreneurs in the Mullaitivu district. A welcome dance was performed by Puthukkudiyirupu Central College students. Professor Mrs S. Shanmugathas, Director of the Center for Gender Equity and Equality at the University of Jaffna, extended a warm welcome to the guests and audience. Mr.S.Saimurali addressed a honourable speech to the Audience with the blessing words to the women in Mulaithivu District. Dignitaries addressed the gathering, followed by the significant ceremony honouring 25 women who were honoured ‘As successful women’, and their 25 male supporters were honoured with ‘the ‘Supportive Gentleman’ award.

Additionally, 20 elderly women were honoured with vouchers of 10,000 rupees each and women administrative officials were recognized at the event. The event featured cultural performances of the group dance by Iniyavalvu Illa (Disables) students, a solo song by S. Shivamany, Development Officer at the Puthukudiyirupu Divisional Secretariat office, and Kandariyapporul drama by the Mulliyavalia Iaylisai Nadaga Kalamantram. Finally, the event ended with a vote of thanks.

The Centre for Gender Equity and Equality (CGEE) at the University of Jaffna (UOJ) organized a successful three-hour workshop on February 14^th, 2024, as part of the Community-Based Global Rising Freedom Festival. The event, aligned with the 1 billion Rising 2024 campaign, focused on the role of women entrepreneurs in gender mainstreaming. Coordinated by Dr. (Mrs.) Dilogini Sangarathas, the workshop emphasized empowerment and community connection, featuring interactive activities and discussions on overcoming challenges in entrepreneurship.

The event commenced with a warm welcome address delivered by Prof. Shivany Shanmugathas, Director of CGEE. Prof. She set the tone for the proceedings, incorporating a special poem that served as a poignant platform to raise awareness about gender violence and highlight success stories in entrepreneurship. Led by resource persons Dr.(Mrs.)Dilogini Sangarathas, Mrs.Thasika Thanushan, Dr.Karunaithas Rasaratnam, Mr.Thileepan Thiraviyanathan and Ms.Grace Hyacinth Hensman, the session engaged Fifteen women entrepreneurs in a series of interactive role-playing activities. The workshop program offered a diverse array of activities to engage participants and enhance learning and collaboration. Participants engaged in role-playing exercises, sharing experiences and strategies to drive gender equality and societal advancement. The workshop highlighted the crucial role of women entrepreneurs in fostering inclusive practices and community engagement for broader societal impact.

The Certificate Awarding Ceremony The certificate awarding ceremony of the Certificate Course in Women’s Studies program at the University of Jaffna, held on January 31^st, 2024, at the Hoover Auditorium, Faculty of Medicine, University of Jaffna, was a significant milestone in acknowledging the accomplishments of twenty-two (22) students who completed the program. Organized by the Women Education & Research Centre (WERC) in collaboration with the Centre for Gender Equity and Equality (CGEE) and the Staff Development Centre (SDC) at UoJ, the event featured speeches, performances, and awards underscoring the importance of women’s education and collective action for gender equality. Mrs. J. Shiromi Leonard, Secretary at Shanthiham-Association for Health and Counselling, a special guest, delivered an insightful speech emphasizing the significance of women’s empowerment. The ceremony ended in the recognition of students’ dedication and support from various parties and CGEE members, symbolizing a collective step towards gender equity and inclusive societies.

Centre for Gender Equity and Equality (CGEE), together with the Women’s Education & Research Centre (WERC) and the Staff Development Centre (SDC) at the University of Jaffna (UOJ), arranged a dynamic field visit on January 13^th, 2024, in Kandawalai, Kilinochi under the Certificate course in women’s studies. Dr. (Mrs.) Dilogini Sangarathas coordinated the event, which brought together CGEE director, members, Women’s Studies Certificate Program students, and women entrepreneurs to discourse gender issues and empowerment. The day featured cultural performances, speeches by Prof. Shivany Shanmugathas and Ms. R. Vinothini, and interactive sessions. Participants shared experiences, showcased talents, and reflected on their commitment to gender fair-mindedness. The event concluded with gratitude to all involved, marking a significant step in fostering dialogue and community empowerment for gender equity.

In the endeavour to cultivate a secure and inclusive academic environment, the She Leads Program launched an impactful awareness initiative at the University of Jaffna (UoJ). The program employed a dynamic approach, utilizing a deliberately organized compelling awareness program to raise awareness about sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). The International Foundation for Electoral System (IFES) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) gave unwavering support and financial contributions played a pivotal role in the successful execution of our awareness program.

The pinnacle of this initiative was the She Leads Program’s Awareness Event held on December 8th, 2023, at the Library mini auditorium, UoJ. 10 students from each faculty at the University of Jaffna actively participated in the program, ensuring a broad representation and engagement across various academic disciplines. The event boasted a carefully curated guest list, thoughtfully representing diverse facets of the university community. This selected group played a pivotal role in fostering inclusivity, facilitating informed discussions, and collectively addressing issues related to sexual and gender-based violence within the university.

Collaborative efforts from esteemed individuals from the Centre for Gender Equity and Equality (CGEE) enriched the program as resource persons are Dr. (Mrs.) Dilogini Sangarathas (Chairperson of the Research and Education Committee, CGEE), Mrs. Thasika Thanushan (Chairperson of the Monitoring and Evaluation Committee, CGEE), Dr. Karunaithas Rasaratnam (Chairperson of the Grievance Committee, CGEE) and Mr. Thileepan Thiraviyanathan (Coordinator of the GEE Cell, Faculty of Arts, UoJ).

The success of the Certificate Course in Women’s Studies is the impactful platform it has created for participants. The student presentations held on December 16th, 2023, covering a diverse range of topics related to gender issues, signify the depth and breadth of the knowledge gained during the course. The course’s objective to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools to advocate for gender equality and contribute to societal betterment is reflected in the students’ presentations. By addressing various issues related to women and girls in society and proposing solutions, participants have demonstrated their commitment to making a positive impact.

The inclusion of panel members; Prof. (Ms.) S. Shanmugathas (Director/CGEE, UoJ), Prof. R. Vijayakumaran (Director/Staff Development Centre, University of Jaffna) and Dr. (Ms.) In evaluating students’ presentations, D.Sangarathas (Senior Lecturer, UoJ/ Field Coordinator(Part-Time)/TAF Project) adds a valuable dimension to the assessment process. Their expertise in the field would undoubtedly contribute to providing insightful comments and suggestions for improving the student’s final extended essay submission.

E in CGEE in collaboration with WERC conducted a certificate course for women’s students from August to December