In parts of the North and East, large-scale societal tensions have existed for the past thirty years. The war’s conclusion resulted in the abolition of conflict structures, and the government has used the policy framework to re-establish strategic development mechanisms in these areas. The University of Vavuniya’s foundation in this highly war-affected region gives a new path for growth in these places and created a concept paper for establishing a Harmony Centre within the University premises to foster understanding, trust, the relationship among the ethnic and religious groupings of the students, staff, as well as among public, local government actors and religious leaders.

Senate at its 1st meeting held on 7th August 2021 recommended to the concept paper for establishing Harmony Centre (HC) at University of Vavuniya. The Council of the University of Vavuniya approved the concept paper at its 1st meeting held on 25th September 2021and Harmony Centre was established at the University of Vavuniya with the aims to encourage students’ efforts in peaceful living, promote inter-ethnic, intercultural, and inter-religious understanding and interactions, and provide comprehensive education for conflict transformation in post-war Sri Lanka.