Orientation program for Academic year 2024/2025
The Orientation Programme for the newly admitted students of the Faculty of Siddha Medicine, University of Jaffna, was conducted over a period of three weeks with the objective of familiarizing students with the academic, administrative, clinical, and extracurricular aspects of university life. The programme consisted of a series of lectures,practical sessions, training programmes, and educational visits designed to facilitate a smooth transition into higher education.
During the programme, the Dean of the Faculty of Siddha Medicine delivered a comprehensive lecture on the Siddha Medicine curriculum, academic regulations, assessment methods, and expectations from students throughout the programme of study. Heads of the eight departments each conducted a one-hour session introducing their respective departments, academic activities, and learning opportunities. The Director of Student Welfare conducted a lecture on student discipline, welfare services, and the code of conduct expected of university students. The Marshals, University of Jaffna also delivered one-hour sessions on student responsibilities, campus regulations, and maintaining discipline within the university.
The Deputy Registrar of the Faculty of Siddha Medicine provided an overview of the faculty’s administrative structure, student registration procedures, examinations, and other administrative services. Mrs. A. S. C. Janaki, Assistant Registrar (Student Welfare) conducted a session explaining the student welfare services available at the university of Jaffna.
The Medical Officer-in-Charge of Kaithady Siddha Teaching Hospital, Dr.B.Prabaharan,introduced students to the hospital's clinical services and highlighted the importance of clinical training in Siddha medicine. The University Business Linkage Unit Coordinator presented opportunities related to
innovation, entrepreneurship, and industry collaboration. The Counsellor from the Well-being Centre, Mrs. S.Savithri, conducted a session on mental health, stress management, and student well-being. A Research Assistant from the Palmyrah Research Institute, Kaithady, introduced students to research opportunities and the applications of palmyrah-based products.
The Head of the English Language Teaching Unit and the Computer Unit conducted sessions emphasizing the importance of English language proficiency, digital literacy, and information technology skills in higher education. The St.John Ambulance Service conducted both theoretical and practical training on emergency response and basic first aid. A lecture on mental health awareness was delivered by Consultant Psychiatrist Dr. Sivadas, focusing on psychological well-being and strategies for coping with academic and personal challenges. The President of the Student Union of the Faculty of Siddha Medicine introduced students to student activities, leadership opportunities, and student representation. In addition, the Director of Career Guidance introduced the career development services and employment opportunities available to students.
The Senior Assistant Librarian of the Faculty of Siddha Medicine, Mr. Poologanathan, delivered a one-hour lecture introducing the library facilities and services available at both the University of Jaffna Library and the Faculty of Siddha Medicine Library. The session familiarized students with library resources, borrowing procedures, digital library services, online databases, and the effective use of academic information resources. He also informed the students that a 15-hour Information Literacy Programme would be conducted in person at the Faculty of Siddha Medicine to develop their skills in information searching, literature retrieval, referencing, academic integrity, and the effective use of library resources for learning and research.
The Director of the Centre for Gender Equity and Equality, University of Jaffna, Dr. (Mrs.) Sivagowri Rajashanthan, delivered a one-hour lecture on gender equity and equality, with particular emphasis on gender-based violence, sexual harassment, gender discrimination, and the relevant university by-laws, policies, and reporting mechanisms. The session aimed to raise students’ awareness of maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive university environment.She also introduced the Gender Modules, a one-credit programme consisting of 15 hours for newly admitted students. The course is designed to enhance students' understanding of gender-related issues, promote gender sensitivity, and foster respectful interpersonal relationships. Upon successful completion of the course, students will be awarded an e-certificate.
As part of the orientation programme, the newly admitted students also participated in a one-week VAARRPU training programme, which focused on personal development, teamwork, communication skills, leadership qualities, and psychological well-being. This training was highly beneficial in enhancing students’ confidence and preparing them for university life. The programme also included several educational and familiarization visits. Students visited
the Kaithady Siddha Teaching Hospital to observe the hospital environment, administrative structure, and clinical facilities. They also toured the Faculty Herbal Garden to gain an understanding of medicinal plant cultivation and conservation.
Furthermore, students visited the University Sports Unit, University Library, and University Health Centre to become familiar with the support services and facilities available on campus. Educational field visits were also organized to the Navatkuli Herbal Garden, a herbal drug manufacturing unit, Atchuvely and the Kalmadunagar Provincial Herbal Garden,enabling students to broaden their knowledge of medicinal plants, herbal drug production,and practical applications of Siddha medicine.
Overall, the three-week Orientation Programme successfully introduced the new students to the academic environment, university services, clinical training opportunities, student support systems, and professional expectations of the Faculty of Siddha Medicine. The programme provided a strong foundation for their academic journey and encouraged personal, professional, and holistic development.
