Two outstanding undergraduates from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Mr. Anupa Indira Liyanagunawardana (Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce – Fourth Year) and Ms. Praveena Saparamadu (Faculty of Applied Sciences – Third Year), proudly represented the university at Vibrance’25 – the annual cultural and sports festival organized by Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Chennai, India.
A Remarkable Student Experience
Vibrance’25, held from February 26th to March 1st, 2025, was a dynamic celebration of diverse cultures and sporting talents. The festival gathered over 40 participants from 16 different countries, providing a unique platform for students to interact, compete, and immerse themselves in a vibrant international atmosphere. Participants engaged in cultural performances, sports events, gaming competitions, and recreational activities. The festival was further enriched with daily concerts featuring popular artists such as Armaan Malik, Shakthisree Gopalan, Devi Sri Prasad, and Julia Bliss. A major highlight was Videsh – Cultural Clash Showdown on February 28, where international students showcased their traditional performances at the Nethaji Auditorium.
In addition to the festival, VIT Chennai offered short-term academic courses. All Sri Lankan participants took part in AI and Machine Learning and Indian Culture courses under Slot II, benefiting from engaging lectures and hands-on experiences in robotics, drone, and audio laboratories. Furthermore, students participated in yoga and mindfulness sessions, fostering personal growth and well-being.
Exploring India
Beyond academics and cultural events, the students explored historical and modern attractions, visiting Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site that emerged after a tsunami, and engaging in leisure activities at Marina Mall and Phoenix Mall.
Outstanding Achievements
- Praveena Saparamadu participated in the basketball tournament, where her team emerged as champions, and she was honored as the Best Shooter of the tournament.
- Anupa Liyanagunawardana took part in the mini marathon, securing a position among the top 20 finishers.
- Both students represented Sri Lanka at Videsh – Cultural Clash Showdown, performing a traditional dance that captivated the audience.
- All Sri Lankan students received certificates for completing yoga and mindfulness sessions.
Networking and Global Engagement
Vibrance’25 provided a valuable opportunity for students to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds, including participants from Mexico, Brazil, Uruguay, Japan, Indonesia, and across India. These interactions allowed them to exchange cultural insights, foster friendships, and build lasting international networks. The students successfully grasped the concepts with the guidance of expert professors. This experience broadened their understanding of data analysis and predictive modeling.
Student Reflections
“Our participation in Vibrance’25 was one of the most enriching experiences of our undergraduate journey. The knowledge gained, the friendships built, and the cultural exchanges we experienced were truly invaluable. We strongly encourage the participation of more students next year, as this would be a fantastic opportunity for academic and cultural growth.”
The University of Sri Jayewardenepura extends its gratitude to VIT Chennai and Dr. Nithya Venkatesan for the warm hospitality and the incredible learning experience.
The International Affairs Division coordinated this visit with the Director and the staff of the Physical Education Unit of the university under the guidance of the Vice-Chancellor.
