The ceremony of granting financial assistance to economically disadvantaged students of the two universities, UoJ and UoV was held on 01.01.2025 at the Kailasapathy Auditorium of UoJ. The ceremony was graced by the Honourable Governor of the Northern Province, Mr N Vethanayagan as the Chief Guest. The Chief Secretary, Mr. L. Ilaangovan, Vice Chancellor, Prof S Srisatkunarajah, Deans of Faculties of Arts, Science, Hindu civilization, Prof Raguraman, Prof Ravirajan & Pathmanathan UoJ respectively and the representative of Vice Chancellor of UoV, Prof Senthooran, Dean of Technology, Secretary of Ministry of Women’s Affairs and Social Services Mr P.Vageshan, Director of Social Services, Ms S Ahalya, and Registrars of UoJ and UoV gathered to witness the ceremony.
By the end of hostilities in 2009, students who were especially from Wanni districts and got university entrances faced immense economical hardships to commence their hard earned higher education. After an analysis of the situation, then Governor of the province endorsed a special scheme to provide financial assistance to the needy. That was channeled through the Ministry of Education. The scheme provided assistance to the students selected by a criteria set forth for the purpose. It continued till 2022.
It was decided that the Department of Social Services would be put into task to support university students through a scheme approved by the Honourable Governor in 2024. The selection committee appointed by the scheme comprises the Chief Secretary, Vice Chancellors of UoJ and UoV, Secretary to the Governor, Secretary of Ministry of Social Services, Deputy Chief Secretaries of Administration, Finance and Planning. Seven hundred and twenty two students from UoJ and 41 students from UoV get support, though it is a small sum, to contribute to continue their studies.
The Ministry of Women’s Affairs and Social Services will work for a more strengthened support scheme with openings to contributions from philanthropists in 2025 and beyond.
