Inclusion of Tamil-Language Guidelines for Science Research Project Competition (SRPC) and School Science Competitions 2025

We, the undersigned, urge the National Science Foundation (NSF) of Sri Lanka to uphold linguistic inclusivity and ensure equal access to scientific opportunities for all students by providing Tamil-language guidelines and application materials for the Science Research Project Competition (SRPC) and School Science Competitions 2025.

Currently, the official research guidelines and application forms for these competitions are available only in Sinhala and English, effectively excluding Tamil-speaking students from participating. This is a direct barrier to equal educational opportunities and contradicts Sri Lanka’s commitment to linguistic and educational equity.

Why This Matters
Tamil-speaking students, who make up a significant portion of Sri Lanka’s population, deserve equal access to scientific research opportunities.
The lack of Tamil-language materials limits participation and discourages students from engaging in national-level competitions.
Science and research should be inclusive and accessible to all, regardless of language barriers.

We Urge the NSF to:
Immediately translate and release all competition guidelines, application forms, and relevant materials in Tamil.
Extend the application deadline to allow Tamil-speaking students adequate time to prepare their submissions.
Ensure future competitions and NSF initiatives are linguistically inclusive, with materials available in Sinhala, Tamil, and English simultaneously.

Competetion Links :
1. https://www.nsf.gov.lk/index.php/component/content/article/32-announcements/738-calling-applications-for-school-science-competitions-2025?Itemid=101

2. https://www.nsf.gov.lk/index.php/component/content/article/32-announcements/677-science-research-projects-competition-2025?Itemid=101

Science belongs to everyone. Let’s work together to ensure that no student is left behind due to language barriers. Sign and support this petition today!