In a bid to make a lasting impact on society, a group of 40 undergraduate students pursuing degrees in Data Science and Business Analytics in the Faculty of Computing at Kotelawala Defence University embarked on a transformative community project. This initiative took place on August 10, 2023, at Kandawala Maha Vidyalaya, and its primary goal was to enhance the personalities of 76 students ranging from grades 9 to 12 while providing them with valuable insights into future career opportunities. Dr. S. Adihetty’s sponsorship and supervision played a pivotal role in making this project a resounding success. The project featured a diverse array of activities, including career awareness sessions, leadership and personality development exercises, a technological awareness program, mathematics-related educational sessions, motivational talks, and entertaining activities.
The success of this CSR project would not have been possible without the invaluable support of the principal and dedicated teachers at Kandawala Maha Vidyalaya. Their guidance and cooperation were instrumental in the project’s seamless execution. This collaboration underscored the importance of bridging the gap between academia and the community, highlighting the potential for meaningful contributions by students.

Career Awareness Session:
One of the cornerstone activities of the project was the career awareness session, conducted by an experienced instructor from the Vocational Training Authority (VTA) at our invitation. This session aimed to shed light on various career paths and opportunities available in the modern world. It served as a valuable compass, helping the young minds at Kandawala Maha Vidyalaya to navigate their way towards their aspirations.

Mathematical session:
During the motivational talks, the undergraduates emphasized the crucial role of mathematics in any career they might aspire to pursue. By sharing our own experiences and insights, we conveyed the message that mathematics is not just an abstract subject but a key building block for a promising career in the technological fields. This session helped to demystify the subject, encouraging students to embrace the power of mathematical thinking through fun games and activities.

Leadership and Personality Development:
A series of leadership and personality development activities were designed to empower the students. Through interactive games and exercises, they were introduced to the essence of leadership, teamwork, and effective communication. The highlight of this program was a drama presentation that provided a practical guide on facing interviews successfully. These activities instilled confidence and essential life skills in the young participants, equipping them for future challenges.

Technological Awareness:
In an increasingly digitized world, technological literacy is paramount. The project included a technological awareness program that introduced students to the world of Digital Platforms (DP) Education, freelance job opportunities, and the responsible use of social media for educational purposes. This segment aimed to equip students with the digital skills necessary for success in the modern workforce.

Motivational and Entertainment Sessions:
Motivation is often the spark that ignites ambition. The motivational talks and entertaining activities during the project were designed to inspire students to dream big and work diligently towards their goals. Through engaging speeches and interactive sessions, the undergraduates shared their journeys, inspiring the next generation to pursue careers in the software and data analytics industry.

The resounding success of the CSR project conducted by the undergraduate students of the Kotelawala Defence University was amply depicted through the feedback given by the students of the Kandawala Maha Vidyalaya. It not only showcased the significance of mathematics and technology in today’s world but had also ignited the flames of ambition among the young participants. Through collaborative efforts and dedication, the project served as a beacon of hope, lighting the path toward a brighter future for the students of Kandawala Maha Vidyalaya. It exemplified the power of education and the positive impact that passionate individuals can have on their communities. This initiative serves as a reminder that collective efforts, driven by a common goal, can bring about meaningful change.

KDU
Data Science & Business Analytics – Intake 40