VOPP Hosts Groundbreaking Workshop with Dr. Ahilan and Young Researcher Network to Study Malaiyaha Community in Southern Province

On July 6th and 7th, 2024, the Voice of the Plantation People Organization (VOPP) conducted a pivotal workshop at Oruthota Chalet in Kandy, in collaboration with Dr. Ahilan from the University of Jaffna and researchers from the Young Researcher Network (YRN). The focus of this two-day event was to explore the social, cultural, economic, and political situation of the Malaiyaha community residing in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka—marking the beginning of the first-ever research on this community in history.

Sharing the Reality: Current Living Conditions and Key Issues

During the workshop, VOPP shared critical insights into the current living conditions of the Malaiyaha community in the Southern Province. The organization presented detailed information on various aspects of life within the community, including education, healthcare, and economic challenges faced by plantation workers and their families. The realities shared by VOPP painted a vivid picture of the socio-economic vulnerabilities of the Malaiyaha Tamil people, whose contributions to Sri Lanka’s plantation industry have long been overlooked.

The participants from YRN were introduced to the harsh conditions faced by the community, such as limited access to quality education, insufficient healthcare infrastructure, and economic instability stemming from low wages and precarious employment conditions. This session offered a comprehensive overview of the challenges, providing young researchers with valuable insights into the lives of the Malaiyaha people.

A Historic Step: Launching the First Research on the Southern Malaiyaha Community

The workshop also served as a platform to discuss the first-ever research on the social, cultural, economic, and political situation of the Malaiyaha community in the Southern Province. Dr. Ahilan, an esteemed academic from the University of Jaffna, led discussions on the importance of this groundbreaking research, emphasizing that no prior studies had been conducted on the unique circumstances of the Southern Malaiyaha people.

The research aims to fill a significant gap in understanding the complexities of the Southern Malaiyaha community, which differs in many respects from their counterparts in the central plantation regions. The study will examine not only the socio-economic factors impacting the community but also delve into cultural and political aspects that shape their identity and opportunities. By capturing this nuanced data, the research seeks to contribute to more informed policy-making and advocacy efforts.

Empowering Young Researchers for Change

The involvement of the Young Researcher Network in this initiative is a crucial aspect of the workshop's success. By engaging young researchers in fieldwork and data collection, VOPP is fostering a new generation of academics and advocates who are dedicated to addressing the challenges faced by marginalized communities in Sri Lanka. The workshop provided the young researchers with a solid understanding of the research framework, methodology, and the ethical considerations necessary when working with vulnerable populations.

This collaboration between VOPP, Dr. Ahilan, and YRN represents a strategic partnership that will bring fresh perspectives and academic rigor to the study of the Southern Malaiyaha community. The research findings are expected to shed light on long-standing issues, many of which have been neglected by policymakers, and drive meaningful changes for the community.

Looking Forward: A Path to Empowerment

This historic research initiative marks a significant milestone in the efforts to bring visibility to the Southern Malaiyaha Tamil people. VOPP’s commitment to ensuring that their voices are heard, combined with the expertise of academic researchers and the energy of young scholars, signals a new chapter in the struggle for social justice, economic equity, and political recognition.

As this research unfolds, it will provide invaluable insights that can inform both local and national strategies for improving the lives of the Malaiyaha community. VOPP is hopeful that this groundbreaking study will lead to tangible outcomes, such as more inclusive policies, enhanced access to services, and a greater appreciation for the cultural and social contributions of the Southern Malaiyaha people.

The workshop concluded with a strong sense of purpose and collaboration, as participants looked forward to the next steps in this important research journey.