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Awards
Awards
2025
Platinum 2025 Darrel Chong Student Activity Award – World Rank 1
Platinum 2025 Darrel Chong Student Activity Award – World Rank 1
The IEEE Women in Engineering Student Branch Affinity Group of the University of Jaffna (IEEE-WIE-SBAG-UoJ) has achieved an outstanding global milestone by winning the Platinum 2025 Darrel Chong Student Activity Award, securing 1st place worldwide among all IEEE Student Branch activities conducted in 2024.
This prestigious recognition was awarded for the flagship initiative “WIsdom Exchange: W(i)E Grow Together”, highlighting the innovation, impact, and excellence of student-led activities at the University of Jaffna within the global IEEE community.
Figure-1: Campaign flyer
About the Initiative
About the Initiative
“WIsdom Exchange: W(i)E Grow Together” is a peer-driven learning platform designed to address knowledge gaps through structured weekly discussions on emerging technologies. The initiative effectively integrates technical learning with soft-skill development, enabling students to enhance communication, leadership, and collaborative skills.
The project strongly reflects the identity and mission of IEEE Women in Engineering. Its branding carries symbolic meaning, where the “I” in “WIsdom” represents a pen, signifying knowledge exchange, and the “i” in “W(i)E Grow Together” represents people, emphasizing collaboration and inclusivity. A well-coordinated flyer (Figure-1) campaign further strengthened engagement and visibility throughout the series.
Global Recognition and Ceremony
Global Recognition and Ceremony
Figure-2: Photographs of the IEEE SAC Awards Virtual Ceremony and Captures of Ms. J. Varsha representing the University of Jaffna
Find the event video in our YouTube channel
As part of this international recognition, the IEEE-WIE-SBAG-UoJ was formally acknowledged by the IEEE MGA SAC Awards Committee. A representative of the Student Branch, Ms. Varsha Jeyarajalingam (Chairperson, IEEE-WIE-SBAG-UoJ), was invited to participate in the 2025 IEEE SAC Awards Virtual Ceremony, representing the University of Jaffna on a global platform (Figure-2).
She took part in the official rehearsal and recording sessions and was featured in a short interview segment during the ceremony, sharing insights about the award-winning initiative. This participation provided significant international exposure and recognition for both the Student Branch and the University.
The Student Branch has also received the official e-certificate (Figure-3), and a customized crystal award trophy (Figure-4).
Figure-3: Official e-certificate of the Platinum Award
Figure-4: Platinum award trophy
Significance of the Achievement
Significance of the Achievement
This accomplishment reflects the high standard of student engagement and innovation within the University of Jaffna (Figure-5). It enhances the global visibility of the institution and demonstrates excellence in organizing impactful, inclusive, and sustainable initiatives aligned with IEEE’s mission. It further highlights the strength of peer-led learning models and reinforces the importance of empowering students, especially women in STEM, through structured and collaborative platforms.
Figure-5: Session photographs and activity captures
Acknowledgment
Acknowledgment
This remarkable achievement is the result of the collective dedication and teamwork of the IEEE-WIE-SBAG-UoJ. We extend our sincere appreciation to all the committee members, participants, and IEEE volunteers who contributed to the success of this initiative. Special recognition is given to the 2024/2025 Executive Committee (Figure-6):
Chairperson: Ms. Varsha Jeyarajalingam
Vice-Chairperson: Ms. Jasmini Gnanasekaram
Secretary: Ms. Kavithra Nirmali
Assistant Secretary: Ms. Ashna Cynthia Soundararajah
Webmaster: Ms. Lochini Dikkumbura
Treasurer: Ms. Shakthitha Sivarajah
Advisor: Dr. (Ms.) Nirthika Rajendran
Their commitment, leadership, and collaborative effort were instrumental in planning and executing this globally recognized initiative.
Figure-6: Team with Award
The Platinum ranking at the global level marks a significant achievement for the IEEE-WIE-SBAG-UoJ and the University of Jaffna. It stands as a testament to the impact of innovative student-led initiatives and sets a strong foundation for future excellence in IEEE activities.
2025
IEEE Region-10 (Asia Pacific) Women in Engineering (WIE) Outstanding Student Branch Affinity Group Award 2025
IEEE Region-10 (Asia Pacific) Women in Engineering (WIE) Outstanding Student Branch Affinity Group Award 2025
The IEEE Women in Engineering Student Branch Affinity Group of the University of Jaffna (IEEE-WIE-SBAG-UoJ) has been honoured as the winner of the IEEE Region-10 WIE Outstanding Student Branch Affinity Group Award for 2025.
This prestigious award, presented by the IEEE Region 10 Women in Engineering Committee, recognises Student Branch Affinity Groups that demonstrate exceptional performance in organising impactful activities, promoting diversity and inclusion, and contributing significantly to IEEE WIE initiatives.
The award was officially presented at the 2026 IEEE Region 10 Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Kitakyushu, Japan, on March 28–29, 2026. The recognition includes an award plaque and a USD 500 cash prize, acknowledging the outstanding contributions of the IEEE-WIE-SBAG-UoJ during the 2024/2025 period.
Figure-1: Award Plaque
Significance of the Achievement
Significance of the Achievement
This award represents a significant international recognition of the IEEE-WIE-SBAG-UoJ’s dedication, innovation, and impact.
The group received an official award plaque (Figure 1) and a cash prize of USD 500 at the IEEE Region 10 AGM.
The plaque is elegantly designed, featuring distinguished signatures and the official IEEE seal, symbolizing global recognition and excellence.
The achievement enhances the international reputation of the University of Jaffna within the IEEE community.
This milestone stands as a testament to the group’s commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and leadership in engineering.
About the Activities and Contributions (2024/2025)
About the Activities and Contributions (2024/2025)
During the 2024/2025 tenure, IEEE-WIE-SBAG-UoJ successfully conducted a wide range of 44 activities, reflecting excellence in technical, professional, and outreach domains. These initiatives aligned with IEEE WIE’s mission of empowering women in engineering and fostering inclusive growth.
Key activity categories include:
A. Workshops / Bootcamps / Outreach Activities
B. Special Day Sessions / Regular Sessions
C. Research & Knowledge Sharing Series (Igniting Research Passion Series)
D. Flagship Peer-Learning Initiative
(WIsdom Exchange: W(i)E Grow Together)
E. Publicity & Membership Development Activities
F. Administrative & Engagement Activities
These initiatives collectively contributed to student engagement, leadership development, interdisciplinary collaboration, and community impact.
Acknowledgment
Acknowledgment
This achievement is the result of the collective effort and dedication of the IEEE-WIE-SBAG-UoJ. We extend our sincere appreciation to all members, participants, and supporters who contributed to this success.
Special recognition is given to the 2024/2025 Executive Committee (Figure 2):
Chairperson: Ms. Varsha Jeyarajalingam
Secretary: Ms. Kavithra Nirmali
Vice-Chairperson: Ms. Jasmini Gnanasekaram
Treasurer: Ms. Shakthitha Sivarajah
Webmaster: Ms. Lochini Dikkumbura
Assistant Secretary: Ms. Ashna Cynthia Soundararajah
Advisor: Dr. (Ms.) Nirthika Rajendran
Their leadership, dedication, and teamwork were instrumental in achieving this global recognition.
Figure-2: Team Recognition
Figure-3: Recognition from IEEE R10 and IEEE Sri Lanka Section
We also extend our gratitude to the IEEE Sri Lanka Section and the IEEE Region 10 WIE Committee for their continuous support and encouragement (Figure 3).
The IEEE R10 WIE Outstanding SBAG Award 2025 marks a proud milestone for IEEE-WIE-SBAG-UoJ and the University of Jaffna. It reflects sustained excellence in student engagement, leadership, and impactful contributions to the global IEEE community, inspiring future initiatives and continued success.
2025
The IEEE Women in Engineering Student Branch Affinity Group, University of Jaffna, proudly congratulates Dr. Jeyakumar Samantha Tharani, our Advisor, on receiving the IEEE Sri Lanka Section Outstanding Student Branch WIE Affinity Group Advisor Award
This prestigious recognition is a testament to her exemplary leadership, unwavering dedication, and outstanding service in empowering students and strengthening Women in Engineering initiatives. We are truly grateful for her continuous guidance and inspiration to our community.
2025
The IEEE WIE Student Branch of the University of Jaffna is honored to receive the Outstanding Affinity Group Award (Student Branch Category) at the IEEE Sri Lanka Section Awards 2025.
This achievement belongs to our dedicated members and mentors. Our sincere thanks go to our speakers, volunteers, and sponsors for empowering our journey in innovation and inclusivity.
2024
Dr. (Ms.) Nirthika Rajendran, Advisor of the IEEE Women in Engineering Student Branch Affinity Group at the University of Jaffna (IEEE-WIE-SBAG-UoJ), has been recognized with the prestigious IEEE Sri Lanka Section Outstanding Branch Counselor or Advisor Award for 2024. This accolade acknowledges her exemplary volunteer service and unwavering dedication to advancing the objectives of the IEEE Sri Lanka Section. The award was presented at the IEEE Sri Lanka Section Annual General Meeting and Member Night, held on January 9, 2025, at the Samudra Ballroom, Taj Samudra Colombo, Sri Lanka.
2024
The IEEE Women in Engineering Student Branch Affinity Group of the University of Jaffna has been honoured with the Emerging Affinity Group Award in the Student Affinity Group Category by the IEEE Sri Lanka Section presented at the IEEE Sri Lanka Section Awards Ceremony held on 15th of September 2024 at Hotel Sudu Araliya, Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. The award acknowledges the group's outstanding volunteer service and unwavering dedication to the IEEE Sri Lanka Section.
2022
“Emerging Affinity Group Award” for the IEEE WIE Student Branch Affinity Group: This award acknowledges the outstanding progress and dedication of the IEEE WIE Student Branch Affinity Group in the student branch category.
Grants & Funds
Grants & Funds
2025
The IEEE Women in Engineering Student Branch Affinity Group of the University of Jaffna successfully secured the IEEE WIE R10 STEM Grant of USD 250 (approx. LKR 75,000.00). This grant was utilized to organize "AI for STEM Education," a hackathon that challenged 47 secondary school students in the Mannar district to use artificial intelligence to solve everyday problems.
2025
The IEEE Women in Engineering Student Branch Affinity Group of the University of Jaffna successfully secured the IEEE WIE Special Funding of USD 360 (approx. LKR 108,000.00). This funding was instrumental in conducting "InnovateHer: STEM Workshop for Secondary School Students," which empowered 65 participants across the Jaffna and Vavuniya districts.
2024
The IEEE Women in Engineering Student Branch Affinity Group of the University of Jaffna secured the R10 WIE IEEE DEI Grant 2024 of USD 400 (equivalent to LKR 120,000.00). This grant is a testament to our commitment to fostering Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion within our community. The grant will be instrumental in supporting our initiatives aimed at advancing diversity and inclusion in STEM fields.
2022
The IEEE Women in Engineering Student Branch Affinity Group of the University of Jaffna secured the WIE special fund of USD 400 (equivalent to LKR 143,700.00). This grant was obtained to promote technology among women, highlighting the branch’s efforts to empower and support women pursuing careers in Computing, Engineering, and Technology.
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