http://repo.lib.jfn.ac.lk/ujrr/handle/123456789/96 Sun, 06 Sep 2026 18:00:25 GMT 2026-09-06T18:00:25Z http://repo.lib.jfn.ac.lk/ujrr/handle/123456789/12948 Title: Micro-Regional Disparities in Temperature and Precipitation Trends Across Tourism Destinations in the Trincomalee District, Sri Lanka (1981–2024) Authors: Piratheeparajah, N.; Shalome, J.P. Abstract: The Trincomalee District is strategically positioned at the nexus of Sri Lanka's Northern and Eastern Provinces, rendering it a pivotal locale both geographically and economically, particularly as a distinguished hub for tourism. This geographical confluence engenders intricate microclimatic phenomena that exhibit substantial variability across different sectors of the district. A comprehensive understanding of these climatic fluctuations is imperative for fostering sustainable development, especially in the realms of tourism enhancement and resource management. The primary objective of this study is to analyse the micro-regional variations of temperature and precipitation of the Trincomalee District of Sri Lanka. To this end, the study integrates satellite imagery with meticulous meteorological data to rigorously analyze prevailing climate patterns. Employing sophisticated statistical methodologies, such as the Mann-Kendall trend test, enables the detection of significant temporal alterations in temperature and precipitation. Sen’s slope estimator further quantifies the velocity of these climatic trends, offering profound insights into the magnitude of environmental shifts. The utilization of ArcGIS software facilitates spatial interpolation, culminating in detailed cartographic representations that vividly depict microclimatic disparities throughout the region. Data on temperature indicates that Serunuwera sustains an average of approximately 27.4°C, whereas Kuchchavali exhibits marginally higher temperatures at 28.3°C, reflecting localized thermal variations. Precipitation metrics reveal pronounced disparities, with urban Trincomalee receiving roughly 959.3 mm annually, contrasted by Mullipothana, which records up to 1955.3 mm—nearly double the amount. Seasonal fluctuations in rainfall are particularly evident in Kinniya and Serunuwera, underscoring the dynamic nature of seasonal climatic patterns. These spatial and temporal heterogeneities complicate the formulation of uniform development policies across the district, necessitating bespoke strategies tailored to diverse microclimates. Ultimately, this research establishes a detailed climatic baseline, equipping policymakers with the essential foundation to craft region-specific strategies. The insights derived from this study are crucial for fostering balanced regional growth that accommodates the district’s diverse microclimate conditions. Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT http://repo.lib.jfn.ac.lk/ujrr/handle/123456789/12948 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z http://repo.lib.jfn.ac.lk/ujrr/handle/123456789/12313 Title: Spatial and Socio-Economic Determinants of Advanced Level Stream Selection in the Norwood Division, Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka Authors: Kirubananthan, N.; Thanushan, R. Abstract: This study investigates the holistic interplay of multiple factors influencing advanced-level stream selection in the Norwood Divisional Secretariat of Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka. The research highlights a significant disparity, with a high number of students opting for Arts and Commerce subjects, while fewer students choose Mathematics, Science and Technology subjects. The primary objective of this study is to identify the sub-factors affecting stream selection, examine their interdependence and propose strategies to provide evidence-based recommendations to educational stakeholders. The study focused on 25 Tamil medium Advanced Level schools in the area, selected using a simple random sampling method. Primary data was collected from students and teachers through questionnaires, interviews and direct observation. Secondary data was gathered from the Hatton Educational Department. Additionally, ArcGIS software, SPSS and Microsoft Excel were used to map student residences, school locations and private educational institutions, while simple statistical analysis was performed. SWOT and TOWS Matrix analyses were also conducted. Key findings reveal that traveling distance and transportation are crucial factors influencing stream selection, with 29% of students living more than 20 km away from their schools and 95% walking to schools. These factors, combined with the cost of transportation, significantly impact students’ stream choices. Additionally, 76% of students did not choose their A/L education stream voluntarily and 85% expressed a desire to pursue a different stream. The study concludes that there is a pressing need to improve the Mathematics and Science stream selection in the Norwood area to create more career opportunities for students, while also enhancing the Arts stream. This research confirms that multiple factors are interrelated in the selection of academic courses for higher education. Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT http://repo.lib.jfn.ac.lk/ujrr/handle/123456789/12313 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z http://repo.lib.jfn.ac.lk/ujrr/handle/123456789/11781 Title: WHAT CAUSED LAND ABANDONMENT IN VALIGAMAM, NORTH OF JAFFNA, SRI LANKA?: A SPATIAL AND ECONOMETRIC ANALYSIS Authors: Varnika, S.; Neruja, N.; Thanushan, R. Abstract: This study aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between population density, migration, and land abandonment in the Valigamam North region, which was profoundly affected by historical events, notably the ethnic conflict in the Jaffna Peninsula from 1987 to 1995. With a randomly selected sample of 85 households, Probit and Tobit models were utilised as analytical tools. Furthermore, this study used thematic mapping methodology with ArcMap 10.4 software. The results of the probit model revealed a statistically significant impact of migration, gender, and income on land abandonment. Conversely, variables such as land size, labour, and loans did not exhibit a statistically significant influence on land abandonment. The findings from the Tobit model indicate a positive correlation between migration and the likelihood of land being abandoned. The results elucidate significant spatial variations, particularly in locales characterised by low population density, where abandonment of land is more prevalent. The outcomes of this research offer insights for the formulation of land management strategies and policy development. Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT http://repo.lib.jfn.ac.lk/ujrr/handle/123456789/11781 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z http://repo.lib.jfn.ac.lk/ujrr/handle/123456789/11780 Title: WHAT CAUSED LAND ABANDONMENT IN VALIGAMAM, NORTH OF JAFFNA, SRI LANKA?: A SPATIAL AND ECONOMETRIC ANALYSIS Authors: Varnika, S.; Neruja, N.; Thanushan, R. Abstract: This study aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between population density, migration, and land abandonment in the Valigamam North region, which was profoundly affected by historical events, notably the ethnic conflict in the Jaffna Peninsula from 1987 to 1995. With a randomly selected sample of 85 households, Probit and Tobit models were utilised as analytical tools. Furthermore, this study used thematic mapping methodology with ArcMap 10.4 software. The results of the probit model revealed a statistically significant impact of migration, gender, and income on land abandonment. Conversely, variables such as land size, labour, and loans did not exhibit a statistically significant influence on land abandonment. The findings from the Tobit model indicate a positive correlation between migration and the likelihood of land being abandoned. The results elucidate significant spatial variations, particularly in locales characterised by low population density, where abandonment of land is more prevalent. The outcomes of this research offer insights for the formulation of land management strategies and policy development Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT http://repo.lib.jfn.ac.lk/ujrr/handle/123456789/11780 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z