Jaffna University launches PAVE
In a step toward fostering civic engagement and democratic governance among youth, the University of Jaffna’s Faculty of Arts has launched the PAVE (Participate. Advocate. Voice. Engage.) programme.
This initiative, a partnership with the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) Sri Lanka, is designed to empower students to become proactive advocates for inclusive elections and democratic reforms.
The programme is part of Australia’s Strengthening Governance programme, and is being implemented in districts across the country, including Jaffna, Badulla, and Hambantota, as well as at the University of Colombo.
The partnership was solidified following a conversation on August 6 between Dr S Raguraman, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, and Dr T Vigneswaran, Head of the Department of Political Science. This led to a subsequent meeting on September 18, with key university officials, including Vice Chancellor Professor S Srisatkunarajah.
The official launch of the programme kicked off with the Module 1 training, a three-day intensive session held on September 19-21 at ReeCha Park & Resort, the university said.
The training was led by the IFES team consisting of Senior Country Director Silja Paasilinna, Deputy Country Director Indraka Ubeysekara, and Programme Officer Anojitha Sivaskaran, all of whom have received training from international experts and specialise in youth development and elections. The curriculum was co-developed by Ms Paasilinna.
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