Research with Runuha University

 During the past six months the research component of the project was brought under the spotlight. Potential research topics were isolated after brain storming with project advisors. The University of Ruhuna (southern University) was consulted for implementing the research in Galle, Matara and Hambantota sites. Some research topics proposed by final year under graduate students that were relevant to project were also taken in to consideration. The SRTAC project will sign Term of Reference (TOR) with the university to implement the program. The research activities will start from April 2008.  The Topic identified for research consultancy are as below.

1). The needs for integrated management of coastal resources in the Southern Province (Msc/ BSc)

2) Identify the potential to improve reed products in the southern province (BSc)

3) Comparative study on saline resilient paddy farming in the Tsunmai affected villages.(BSc)

4) Study of the incidence of worm/larve in Soneratia (Kirala) fruits and its control. (MSc)

5) Determinants of participation of men and women in the Project (or more generically in rural development) activities. (By way of trying to explain why women are more participatory – Is it a question of opportunity cost of time or other social considerations? Being female could be an disadvantage in another situation as with Muslim communities. Is it a correct perception?

6). The type of demand for VIC / Tele Centre services – What are being more widely used/demanded and why?

7). Policy gaps in the Costal Resource Management and Disaster Management in Sri Lanka.

Note: These topic may be subjected to change according to circumstances