Jaffna, known for its rich cultural heritage and resilient spirit, is quickly becoming a center for creative solutions addressing the impacts of climate change. During a recent visit to the northern region, coinciding with the vibrant  Nallur festival, our team engaged with local university students at the Climate 2.0 informal dialogue, organised by  ClimaComms  at Jetwing Jaffna. It was clear that the enthusiasm and commitment of these young change makers were shaping Jaffna’s journey towards sustainability. Experts point out that   Jaffna faces increasing  risks from   rising sea-levels, saltwater intrusion, unpredictable weather patterns, and prolonged droughts which jeopardise traditional livelihoods such as fishing and agriculture. However, Jaffna’s youth are not only aware of these challenges but are actively developing sustainable solutions to address them.

Engaging with Jaffna’s Young  Changemakers

Our conversations with students from the University of Jaffna unveiled a range of innovative projects that are creating real impact on the ground.One student, Aishwarya shared her involvement  in a community-based sustainable agriculture project. Recognising the growing water scarcity in the region, she and her peers have introduced hydroponics and vertical farming methods to cultivate  vegetables  in small spaces with limited water. As she explained, "We realised that traditional farming  methods alone are not enough, but integrating them with modern techniques, can can preserve our heritage and ensure food security”. 

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Promoting Climate-Smart Agriculture

It was encouraging to see  that students are at the forefront of implementing climate-smart agricultural practices. By experimenting with native plants like moringa and neem, which require  less water and can withstand extreme weather, they’re helping to build resilience against the impacts of climate change. They are also exploring drought-resilient crops such as cowpea, pulses and pearl millet. What sets these efforts apart is the combination of traditional knowledge with modern technology, such as the use of drones and smart irrigation systems, maximise agricultural output while reducing environmental impact.

Addressing water scarcity is another area where innovators are making a difference. By developing smart irrigation technologies and water harvesting management systems, they’re maximising water efficiency.  Additionally, some students have developed a mobile app that helps farmers monitor water usage and optimise irrigation based on real-time data, ensuring that water resources are used more sustainably.

Empowering Future Leaders

The youth of Jaffna are not just responding to climate challenges; they are leading the way in finding creative and practical solutions. What stands out is their willingness to work in multidisciplinary teams, combining expertise from agriculture, environmental science, and ecosystem management. This collaborative approach is essential for addressing the complexities of climate change. 

While they face challenges in accessing markets, resources, and investment opportunities, the determination and optimism of these young entrepreneurs are truly inspiring.  As young social entrepreneur Siva shared, "Yes, there are challenges, but every challenge presents an opportunity. We are building a better future for Jaffna, not just businesses."

At SLYCAN Trust, we are committed to supporting the efforts of young changemakers like those in Jaffna. Their creativity, resilience, and passion serve as a powerful example of how local communities can drive sustainable change and build a climate-resilient future. By providing platforms, mentorship, and resources, we aim to amplify their impact and help transform climate innovation. 

The youth of Jaffna are not only responding to the challenges posted by climate change but are actively shaping a more sustainable and prosperous future. We look forward to continuing our support for these initiatives and contributing to the growth of creative entrepreneurship in the region. 

Climate 2.0 is a series of informal conversations under the ClimaComms initiative by SLYCAN Trust. It aims to bring together a diverse group of individuals, from those deeply involved in climate action to those working in different fields. The goal is to ensure holistic discussions on pressing environmental topics, fostering a collaborative approach to tackling climate challenges. By bridging gaps between various sectors and perspectives, Climate 2.0 seeks to create a more inclusive and comprehensive dialogue on our future.

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Written by Henry Mitchel

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