More Than Just Numbers
The Vice-Chancellor’s stance on the diverse but non-local student enrolment in the Engineering Faculty overlooks the fundamental purpose of the faculty’s establishment. It was envisioned as an embodiment of the hopes and educational ambitions of the Jaffna community. The responsibility of the university’s leadership extends beyond maintaining enrolment numbers; it involves nurturing the faculty as a beacon of academic excellence and opportunity for the local populace.
The Need for Proactive Leadership
Jaffna University, particularly its Engineering Faculty, was established to serve not just the academic community but also to fulfil the aspirations of the people of Jaffna. The leadership’s current approach, which appears indifferent to the declining interest of local students, is a matter of concern. The university should not be a mute spectator but a dynamic force, actively seeking ways to engage and attract the students it was intended to serve.
Strategies for Revitalization
Jaffna Monitor Magazine advocates for the university to adopt innovative strategies to rekindle local interest:
Curricular Innovations: Tailor engineering programs to reflect Jaffna’s students’ unique needs and interests, making the faculty more relevant and appealing.
Community Engagement: Forge stronger connections with local schools and community leaders to understand and address the root causes of the declining local interest. Targeted Awareness Campaigns: Implement marketing strategies highlighting the faculty’s achievements and potential, showcasing its relevance to the local community.
Leveraging Alumni Networks: Engage alumni in mentorship and outreach programs, demonstrating the faculty’s impact and opportunities to prospective students.
Upholding the Dream
The Engineering Faculty of Jaffna University was born out of a collective dream, symbolizing more than an academic establishment. It represents hope, progress, and the aspirations of the Jaffna people. The university’s leadership must recognize and honour this sentiment by actively working to ensure the faculty remains a symbol of pride and opportunity for the local community.
While understanding the practicalities of running an educational institution, Jaffna Monitor Magazine urges the university’s leadership to revisit and realign with its foundational vision. By doing so, they can ensure that the Engineering Faculty not only thrives but also continues to embody the dreams and aspirations of the people it was built to serve.
