The IEEE Women in Engineering Student Branch Affinity Group of the University of Jaffna (IEEE-WIE-SBAG-UoJ), has achieved an outstanding global milestone by winning the Platinum 2025 Darrel Chong Student Activity Award, securing 1st place worldwide among all IEEE Student Branch activities conducted in 2024.
This prestigious recognition was awarded for the flagship initiative “WIsdom Exchange: W(i)E Grow Together”, highlighting the innovation, impact, and excellence of student-led activities at the University of Jaffna within the global IEEE community.
About the Initiative
“WIsdom Exchange: W(i)E Grow Together” is a peer-driven learning platform designed to address knowledge gaps through structured weekly discussions on emerging technologies. The initiative effectively integrates technical learning with soft-skill development, enabling students to enhance communication, leadership, and collaborative skills.
The project strongly reflects the identity and mission of IEEE Women in Engineering. Its branding carries symbolic meaning, where the “I” in “WIsdom” represents a pen, signifying knowledge exchange, and the “i” in “W(i)E Grow Together” represents people, emphasizing collaboration and inclusivity. A well-coordinated flyer (Figure 1) campaign further strengthened engagement and visibility throughout the series.
Global Recognition and Ceremony
Event video: IEEE Darrel Chong Student Activity Award 2025
As part of this international recognition, the IEEE-WIE-SBAG-UoJ was formally acknowledged by the IEEE MGA SAC Awards Committee. A representative of the Student Branch, Ms. Varsha Jeyarajalingam (Chairperson, IEEE-WIE-SBAG-UoJ), was invited to participate in the 2025 IEEE SAC Awards Virtual Ceremony, representing the University of Jaffna on a global platform (Figure 2).
She took part in the official rehearsal and recording sessions and was featured in a short interview segment during the ceremony, sharing insights about the award-winning initiative. This participation provided significant international exposure and recognition for both the Student Branch and the University.
The Student Branch has also received the official e-certificate (Figure 3), and a customized crystal award trophy (Figure 4).
Significance of the Achievement
This accomplishment reflects the high standard of student engagement and innovation within the University of Jaffna. It enhances the global visibility of the institution and demonstrates excellence in organizing impactful, inclusive, and sustainable initiatives aligned with IEEE’s mission. It further highlights the strength of peer-led learning models and reinforces the importance of empowering students, especially women in STEM, through structured and collaborative platforms (Figure 5).
Acknowledgment
This remarkable achievement is the result of the collective dedication and teamwork of the IEEE-WIE-SBAG-UoJ. We extend our sincere appreciation to all the committee members, participants, and IEEE volunteers who contributed to the success of this initiative. Special recognition is given to the 2024/2025 Executive Committee (Figure 6):
- Chairperson: Ms. Varsha Jeyarajalingam
- Secretary: Ms. Kavithra Nirmali
- Vice-Chairperson: Ms. Jasmini Gnanasekaram
- Treasurer: Ms. Shakthitha Sivarajah
- Webmaster: Ms. Lochini Dikkumbura
- Assistant Secretary: Ms. Ashna Cynthia Soundararajah
- Advisor: Dr. (Ms.) Nirthika Rajendran
Their commitment, leadership, and collaborative effort were instrumental in planning and executing this globally recognised initiative.
The Platinum ranking at the global level marks a significant achievement for the IEEE-WIE-SBAG-UoJ and the University of Jaffna. It stands as a testament to the impact of innovative student-led initiatives and sets a strong foundation for future excellence in IEEE activities.