SLIIT Northern Uni is proud to announce the launch of its first Space Project to launch a satellite into orbit soon, marking a significant milestone in space exploration and international collaboration. This project is poised to enhance the relationship between India and Sri Lanka, serving as a bridge to foster scientific partnership and technological growth. The initiative transcends national borders, reflecting the shared ambition to promote space science and provide equal opportunities for students across Sri Lanka, including the Jaffna region, to gain exposure to cutting-edge space technology.
A Transformative Step for Jaffna and Sri Lanka:
For the first time, in the northern region of Sri Lanka, particularly Jaffna, government school and university students will have direct exposure to space technology through this landmark project.
SLIIT Northern Uni’s satellite project not only represents a breakthrough in education but also brings a wealth of opportunity to students from diverse backgrounds, helping to bridge the gap in technological access. This initiative underscores Indy Pathmanathan’s (Chairman of SLIIT Northern Uni) commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that students from all walks of life, across Sri Lanka, will benefit from the educational and technical advancements brought about by the satellite launch.
SLIIT Northern Uni has collaborated with Space Kidz India, a leading name in the space industry, to support this ambitious mission. Space Kidz India is an aerospace startup creating young scientists across the globe apart from advocating for Women in Space. Their extensive experience in satellite development will be instrumental in the success of SLIIT Northern Uni’s mission. Dr. Srimathy Kesan, who will serve as the Mission Director, will spearhead the SLIIT Northern Uni SAT mission. This collaboration symbolizes the importance of shared expertise, with both India and Sri Lanka working together to inspire and educate the next generation of space enthusiasts.
SLIIT Northern Uni is extremely happy to sign the MOU during the World Space Week, symbolizing international collaboration. We are honoured to have Alma Okpalefe, Executive Director of the World Space Week Organisation, joining us online to support this mission and celebrate the importance of this global space initiative.
Educational and Research Objectives:
The satellite will carry an array of sophisticated instruments designed to study the Space atmosphere and demonstrate communication technologies. In addition to its scientific objectives, the project serves a broader mission to encompass several educational and research goals, including:
Educational Experience: Offering students first hand exposure to satellite technology, space missions, and cutting-edge research.
Skill Development: Providing opportunities for skill-building in satellite development, data analysis, and communication technologies, preparing students for future careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
Research and Innovation: Encouraging students to engage in groundbreaking research and contribute to innovative technological solutions that can benefit society.
Collaborations
SLIIT Northern Uni has collaborated with the Ministry of Education Sri Lanka to select students based on merit, through examinations conducted by the Ministry. The UGC has also endorsed the project, which involves collaboration with universities. This initiative aims to launch Sri Lanka’s first-ever satellite through a public-private partnership.
Phase 1- Training students in Sri Lanka and India – Space Science and Technology Overview
School students from Sri Lanka – 50 and India – 10
University students – 50
Phase 2 –
30 university students will be part of the satellite building and integration
15 university students and 50 high school students from Sri Lanka will attend to watch the SLIIT Northern Uni satellite launch in India.
By involving students at various educational levels, the satellite project aims to promote STEM education and inspire future generations. SLIIT Northern Uni’s satellite mission has the potential to form collaborations with industries and research organizations, further expanding the reach and impact of this initiative.
Inspiring Future Generations
This satellite launch is more than just a technical achievement; it is a symbol of hope and inspiration for countless students who dream of contributing to the fields of science and technology. SLIIT Northern Uni, through this initiative, aims to nurture young minds and cultivate a generation of problem solvers and innovators who will shape the future of space exploration in Sri Lanka and beyond.
About SLIIT Northern Uni:
SLIIT Northern Uni is dedicated to providing world-class education and fostering innovation, with a particular focus on STEM subjects. The institution offers equal opportunities for all students, and its satellite project represents a critical step in expanding access to space technology in Sri Lanka.
SLIIT Northern Uni was founded in 2022 (but dreamed up years earlier) by Indy Pathmanathan. This passion project was created with a vision to bring world class technology and computing programs to the underserved Northern and Eastern provinces of Sri Lanka. With excellent technology and business programs that culminate in co-op terms and work placements, SLIIT Northern Uni ensures that students are set up with skills for the future.
SLIIT Northern Uni presents a wide spectrum of graduate and postgraduate courses to both local and international students. The establishment holds immense importance for the region as it opens doors to world-class education and opportunities right in Jaffna. By retaining talented students within the country, SLIIT Northern Uni significantly contributes to saving foreign exchange. It also aims to produce highly skilled professionals who drive innovation and bring revenue to Sri Lanka.
SLIIT Northern Uni has 300+ students as it steps into its second year of operations. SLIIT Northern Uni also actively leverages partnerships with global universities to offer Pathway Programs in IT and business studies. These Pathway Programs are a great way for students in Sri Lanka, India, Nepal and Bangladesh to get access to premier foreign universities such as Curtin University (Australia) and University of Bedfordshire (UK) – at significantly lower costs.
About Space Kidz India:
Space Kidz India is an Indian Aerospace Startup pioneering the design, fabrication, and launch of small satellites, spacecraft, and ground Systems. Our goal is to provide economical and sustainable access to space to cater to the needs of education, research, and industry. With more than seven years of experience, we have launched 19+ NSLVs (BalloonSats), three Suborbital Payloads, and five Orbital Satellites.
Also ambassadors to the “NASA”, “ESA” and “GCTC Russia” Space Camps. Space Kidz India plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of space science in India and around the world.
Chief Guest:
Dr. Prafulla Kumar Jain- Director, IN-SPACe Ahmedabad
Guests of Honour:
Alma – Executive Director, World Space Week Association
Dr. Saranya Jaikumar – Educational Psychologist
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Website: https://northernuni.lk/satellitelab
