Ten research pods from four universities conducted their social cohesion activities across different locations under NPC's Mobilising University State Engagement for Reconciliation (MUSTER) project, which is supported by Strengthening Social Cohesion and Peace in Sri Lanka (SCOPE) and co-financed by the European Union and the German Federal Foreign Office. This intensive implementation phase demonstrated the project's transition from research to meaningful action.
The research pods from the University of Ruhuna conducted activities addressing ethnic harmony and intercultural understanding. Research Pod One under Dr. Nisanka Ariyarathne's guidance engaged students and teachers, focusing on critical thinking skills regarding social constructs of ethnic and gender norms. Research Pod Two guided by Ms. Mayuri Kularathne facilitated meaningful dialogue bringing together students, teachers and community representatives to explore ethnic division prevention strategies. Research Pod Three conducted its activity at Matara Divisional Secretariat.
The research pods from the University of Jaffna (UOJ) conducted activities addressing distinct community challenges. Research Pod One under Dr. S. Sivakanthan's leadership conducted a disability inclusion activity engaging persons with disabilities, community members and district officials in a constructive dialogue on accessibility challenges and solutions. Research Pod Two guided by Dr. Ahilan Kadirgamar focused on women's empowerment bringing together students, teachers and community leaders, featuring a vibrant marketplace showcasing women's entrepreneurship initiatives. Research Pod Three under Mr. R. Rajeshkannan's guidance addressed cultural, religious and ethnic issues engaging participants in dialogue that concluded with a cultural showcase.
Research Pod Three from Sabaragamuwa University under Dr. Sanjaya Pradeep’s guidance continued its focus on plantation community challenges through activities engaging 37 tea estate workers in discussions about socioeconomic challenges, rights awareness and how to engage with government institutions.
Three research pods from the Eastern University conducted comprehensive awareness sessions on their research findings, marking their entry into the implementation phase. Research Pod One under Dr. S. Umashankar's guidance conducted an awareness session engaging school students and academics in a dialogue about its findings.
Research Pod Two led by Prof. Kanesh Suresh conducted a field session at Kudumbumalai Cattlers Village in Thoppigala addressing key issues faced by the local cattle farming community. The session was led by student researchers and their pod mentor from the university, creating an open and respectful space for discussion.
The cattle farmers, who were direct participants throughout the research process, shared their experiences and reflected on their journey with the project. Many expressed a renewed sense of hope as the research had brought attention to pressing issues that were neglected or suppressed due to local political dynamics. They appreciated the fact that their voices were finally being heard and that their concerns were being addressed through a structured academic platform.
"We are not asking for money or any help. What we want is for the country to recognise our service. We are a cattle farming village and many of us have between 30 to 200 cattle. We produce good quality milk. The price we get for milk is okay but the collection process is slow and not well managed. If this can be improved it will help both us and the country. We believe the research findings shared here will help us get what we are asking for and support our work better," said cattle farmer Thiyagarajah Nimalan.
Another cattle farmer, Mesen Nanthakumar, shared his concern about a long standing issue: "The electric fences are good to stop wild elephants. They mostly come between five in the evening and five in the morning but now the fences are on all the time. This is killing our cattle. We have told the officers many times but still no action has been taken. We hope this project, which is working together with the university and the government, will help bring solutions soon for our village."
Research Pod Three mentored by Prof. Jeevaretnam Kennedy focused on sharing insights with students and academic stakeholders.
These diverse interventions collectively engaged government officials, educational institutions, community leaders, students, persons with disabilities, women entrepreneurs, plantation workers and agricultural communities, demonstrating the multi-sectoral collaboration that characterises project's approach. The activities addressed critical themes including ethnic and religious harmony, disability inclusion, women's empowerment, plantation community rights, agricultural community challenges and intercultural understanding.
The successful completion of the ten social cohesion activities represents a significant milestone in the project's impact with the research findings now being operationalised across multiple provinces and diverse community contexts. This intensive implementation phase validates the project's core methodology of mobilising university- state engagement for reconciliation with student research pods, academic mentors, government officials and community institutions working collaboratively to create sustainable pathways for social harmony and peace in Sri Lanka.