The University Business Linkage Cell, University of Vavuniya, in collaboration with the GATE Institute, UK, jointly organized an “Advanced Workshop on Idea Generation and Business Development for Entrepreneurs.” In the University premises, Pampaimadu, Vavuniya on 23rd of November 2024 at 9.00am to 4.00pm. This workshop is designed for established entrepreneurs, early-stage entrepreneurs, students with business ideas, and aspiring entrepreneurs to empowering entrepreneurs, honoring business ideas, fostering the creation of new products, and accelerating growth. Nearly 170 participants attended the event, which began with registration and the lighting of the traditional lamp. Distinguished guests, including Dr. M. Arumukam (Chairman of the Startup Committee & Foundation, Member of the TANSAM Centre of Excellence, Tamil Nadu, India), Mr. P. Parthipan (Vice President, Device Programs at Peloton Interactive, California, USA & Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Tamil Ventures LP.), and Mr. M. Thabenthiran (District Vidatha Officer, District Secretariat, Vavuniya and Mullaitivu), attended as special guests. The Chief Guest, Sevithi Sai Murali, the Consul General of India in Jaffna, also graced the occasion.
Nearly 175 participants participated this workshop. The event began with the registration of participants and Traditional customs were honored with the lighting of the traditional lamp.
Then officially event commenced with a welcome address by Ms. S. Mathivathany, Director of the Business Linkage Cell, followed by an introductory speech by Dr. S. Senthan, CEO of the GATE Institute, UK. Mr. K. Jeyaraj introduced the “GATE for Innovation, Venture & Entrepreneurship” program, while Prof. Y. Nanthagopan, Dean of the Faculty of Business Studies, delivered a key speech on the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship in economic growth. Mr. P. Sasitharan, Programme Coordinator for Entrepreneurship and Business Management at the University of Vavuniya, spoke on the “Power of a Business Plan for an Entrepreneur.” Prof. A. Atputharajah, Vice Chancellor of the University of Vavuniya, also delivered a speech on importance of the digital innovation for the entrepreneurship development. The session on “Entrepreneurship and Innovation” was delivered by Dr. M. Arumukam, while Mr. Parthipan Paramsothy led a session on “Lessons from Global Perspectives.”
The workshop fostered a deeper understanding of the local and global entrepreneurial landscape, helping participants identify new market opportunities, trends, and challenges. The final registration of entrepreneurs into the GIVE platform was another key benefit, as it provided ongoing support and resources for participants to scale their businesses. Overall, the workshop empowered participants to refine their business ideas, expand their networks, and accelerate the growth of their entrepreneurial ventures.
Participants gained valuable insights into local and global entrepreneurial landscapes, helping them identify market opportunities, trends, and challenges. Through expert sessions, participants were empowered to refine their business ideas and learn practical strategies for creating innovative products and services. Also, the event fostered connections among entrepreneurs, students, and industry experts, laying the groundwork for collaborations and mentorship opportunities. Entrepreneurs were registered into the GIVE platform, which will provide ongoing support, mentorship, and resources for business growth.
It successfully empowered entrepreneurs, honored innovative ideas, and accelerated entrepreneurial growth through a comprehensive agenda of interactive sessions, expert guidance, and networking opportunities. This initiative highlights the collaborative efforts of the University Business Linkage Cell and the GATE Institute in advancing entrepreneurship, not just locally but with a global outlook, fostering the economic and innovative growth of the region.
