Creating a Smart Web Application for Sri Lankan Universities: A Case Study of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura

Access to education is a fundamental right, and the pursuit of higher education often prompts students to relocate, even across borders. In Sri Lanka, a considerable number of students from rural areas migrate to urban centers for university education, resulting in a higher education gross enrollment rate of 19.8%. However, universities in Sri Lanka face challenges in providing sufficient on-campus housing for the growing student population. Consequently, there is a surging demand for private student housing, primarily driven by students themselves. Presently, private housing providers are stepping in to meet this demand. This study endeavours to explore available options for private housing in close proximity to universities, employing SMART online application techniques. Its primary aim is to assist students in identifying suitable private accommodations, taking into account a myriad of factors. A significant proportion of students attending Sri Jayewardenepura University hail from rural areas situated more than 30 kilometers away from the campus, rendering daily commuting impractical. Moreover, approximately sixty percent of undergraduate students at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura lack access to on-campus hostel facilities, necessitating their search for private lodgings. However, several crucial factors need consideration when selecting private housing. While regulations govern university dormitories, there is presently no legislation overseeing or standardizing private housing options for students. Consequently, nearly 90% of undergraduates encounter multiple challenges when seeking suitable private accommodations within tight timeframes. Given that many students are unfamiliar with the area, institutional guidance in selecting private housing would prove invaluable

Enhancing Student Housing Accessibility and Affordability: A Comprehensive Analysis of Private Accommodations at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura

The fundamental right to education drives students across the globe to seek higher education opportunities, often necessitating relocations within their own country or abroad. In the context of Sri Lanka, the higher education gross enrolment rate has steadily increased, currently standing at 19.8%. However, the capacity of the nation's universities to offer on-campus housing falls short in accommodating the surging student population. Consequently, there has been a growing demand for private student housing, met primarily by private housing providers. At the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, a significant proportion, approximately 60% of undergraduate students, face the challenge of lacking access to on-campus dormitory facilities, making private housing companies a potentially pivotal solution. However, a critical gap exists in the legal framework regulating student private housing, forcing students to seek accommodation in hotels.When selecting private housing, students take into account multifaceted factors including location, proximity to the educational institution, safety, amenities, and the degree of personal autonomy they can enjoy. This research endeavours to develop an invaluable decision-making tool to empower students in making informed choices regarding private accommodations. Given that a substantial portion of students originates from rural areas where daily commutes to the university are impractical, student housing assumes paramount significance in their pursuit of higher education. This research project advocates for institutional guidance in the selection of private housing, a move that would substantially benefit students grappling with the challenge of securing suitable accommodations within limited timeframes. The study's findings hold the potential to significantly improve the educational journey for aspiring students in Sri Lanka, thereby enhancing accessibility and equity in higher education

Enhancing Sustainable Rural Development in Sri Lanka: A Study of Community-Centered Approaches and Volunteerism in Ohiya, Karagahayaya, and Moragahapallama

This study investigates community-based volunteer programs in Sri Lanka, with a specific focus on development initiatives that emphasize community participation. The research identifies three primary development approaches: "Community-Oriented Development," "Community-Engaged Development," and "Community-Driven Development." These approaches aim to promote the adoption of sustainable and effective development practices by actively involving volunteers. The study's findings reveal shortcomings in existing approaches, including issues related to sustainability and their alignment with the intended beneficiary areas. This conclusion is based on a rigorous review and comprehensive analysis of the subject. To address these challenges, the research provides valuable examples of community-centered development efforts that are highly recommended. The study benefited significantly from the inclusion of three key case study regions in Sri Lanka: Ohiya, Karagahayaya, and Moragahapalla. The active involvement and collaboration of local residents played a pivotal role in shaping the outcomes and ensuring the relevance and feasibility of the proposed development strategies. In summary, this research centers on development projects in Sri Lanka that prioritize community involvement and participation. The active engagement of local residents is instrumental in shaping the outcomes and validating the practicality of the proposed development strategies