SLT-MOBITEL opens doors for undergraduate research into Blue Carbon Ecosystems

SLT-MOBITEL opens doors for undergraduate research into Blue Carbon Ecosystems

SLT-MOBITEL, the National ICT Solutions Provider, reaffirmed its dedication to environmental sustainability by awarding three scholarships to undergraduate students from the University of Colombo, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, and Uva Wellassa University. These research-based scholarship grants were designed to support studies focused on blue carbon ecosystems in Sri Lanka, fostering a deeper understanding and conservation of these vital environmental assets.

The SLT-MOBITEL Scholarship programme has been open to all undergraduate students enrolled in universities registered under the University Grants Commission (UGC) where research is a compulsory credited module. This initiative serves as a valuable platform, empowering young researchers to contribute meaningfully to the scientific studies and wise management of blue carbon ecosystems.

Selected scholars of 2024 have received financial aid to complete their research, gaining hands-on experience and advancing knowledge in this crucial area. Each scholarship, valued at up to LKR 250,000, provides the recipients with the opportunity to explore practical applications, promote sustainable practices, and engage in innovative research as well as publish their scientific findings.

The research topics encompassed areas such as biology, ecology, restoration, conservation, and the sustainable utilization of blue carbon ecosystems. Additionally, students were encouraged to analyze the interactions between these ecosystems and the local communities that rely on them for their livelihoods.

Applicants were required to submit research proposals aligned with specific criteria, adhering to stipulated guidelines via the SLT-MOBITEL online portal. Shortlisted candidates were invited for interviews, where they presented their research proposals before a panel of experts.

SLT-MOBITEL is delighted to mention that the recipients so far are engaged in diverse areas such as antifungal property exploration, total ecosystem carbon stock estimation and saltmarsh vegetation characterization.

Through this scholarship programme, SLT-MOBITEL reinforced its commitment to fostering academic excellence, promoting innovation, and supporting initiatives that drive long-term environmental and societal benefits. This initiative was launched as part of SLT-MOBITEL’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments, directly contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Image Caption: From left to right – Anne Fernando, Deputy General Manager, Activation and Channel Development, SLT, Anuruddha Suriarachchi, General Manager, Marketing Services, SLT, Award winners – Dhananji Wijerathna, University of Wayamba, Gayashi Kavindya Perera, University of Colombo, Gayani Dissanayake, University of Uva Wellassa, Prof. Sevvandi Jayakody, Chair Professor, Wayamba University and Chairperson, National Mangrove Expert Committee and Vajira Hapuhinna, Manager, Marketing, SLT.