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

Thursday, 26 June 2025 00:02 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

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

SLT-Mobitel, recently reaffirmed its dedication to environmental sustainability by awarding three scholarships to undergraduate students from the University of Colombo, Wayamba University 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 program 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 Rs. 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 utilisation of blue carbon ecosystems. Additionally, students were encouraged to analyse 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 characterisation.

Through this scholarship program, 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).

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