Browsing by Author "Wijesinghe, N"

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    PublicationOpen Access
    Identifying the causes of adolescent malnutrition in Nuwara-Eliya District, Sri Lanka
    (Nature Research, 2025-05-06) Nandajeewa, S; Aluthwatta, S; Weerarathna, R; Rathnayake, N; Rajapakse, V; Wijesinghe, N; Liyanaarachchi, T
    Malnutrition, a persistent illness, significantly reduces fat, muscle and bone levels, harming internal organs. The economic crisis in Sri Lanka has led to widespread malnutrition among children, including adolescents experiencing growth spurts. This study identifies factors influencing malnutrition in grade 10 pupils in the Nuwara-Eliya District, with the highest rates of malnutrition and also a multicultural area with many estate sector residents. Using a cross-sectional, quantitative approach, the data was collected from 379 respondents via a Likert scale questionnaire. Structural Equation Model (SEM) analysis was conducted using Smart PLS 4.0. Key findings indicate that environmental factors, such as access to clean water and sanitation, significantly influence adolescent malnutrition. A comprehensive strategy incorporating education, healthcare, and environmental improvements is essential for this. Ongoing observation, community engagement, and cooperative tactics are crucial for sustainable solutions. Addressing environmental issues and promoting a holistic approach to health education and infrastructure improvements are vital to combat adolescent malnutrition in vulnerable populations
  • Thumbnail Image
    PublicationOpen Access
    Identifying the causes of adolescent malnutrition in Nuwara-Eliya District, Sri Lanka
    (Nature Research, 2025-05-06) Nandajeewa, S; Aluthwatta, S; Weerarathna, R; Rathnayake, N; Rajapakse, V; Wijesinghe, N; Liyanaarachchi, T
    Malnutrition, a persistent illness, significantly reduces fat, muscle and bone levels, harming internal organs. The economic crisis in Sri Lanka has led to widespread malnutrition among children, including adolescents experiencing growth spurts. This study identifies factors influencing malnutrition in grade 10 pupils in the Nuwara-Eliya District, with the highest rates of malnutrition and also a multicultural area with many estate sector residents. Using a cross-sectional, quantitative approach, the data was collected from 379 respondents via a Likert scale questionnaire. Structural Equation Model (SEM) analysis was conducted using Smart PLS 4.0. Key findings indicate that environmental factors, such as access to clean water and sanitation, significantly influence adolescent malnutrition. A comprehensive strategy incorporating education, healthcare, and environmental improvements is essential for this. Ongoing observation, community engagement, and cooperative tactics are crucial for sustainable solutions. Addressing environmental issues and promoting a holistic approach to health education and infrastructure improvements are vital to combat adolescent malnutrition in vulnerable populations.
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    PublicationOpen Access
    A Study of Educati onal Pathways of Children with Visual Impairment and Blindness in Sri Lanka
    (Faculty of Humanities and Sciences, SLIIT, 2024-12-04) Karunanayake, V.J; Wijesinghe, N
    This study explores into the educati onal journey of visually impaired and blind children in Sri Lanka, aiming to uncover their challenges and assess available opportuniti es within the educati on system. Through three in-depth case studies, it provides a nuanced understanding of their experiences. Case 1 highlights the success of a 45-year-old blind individual, emphasizing the pivotal role of specialized schools. Case 2 underscores the importance of early detecti on and interventi on for a 22-year-old undergraduate who lost sight due to early birth complicati ons. The third case exemplifi es a 26-yearold visually impaired woman pursuing a master’s degree, showcasing the determinati on and potenti al of visually impaired individuals in higher educati on. While Sri Lanka off ers various educati onal avenues for visually impaired children, including specialized and integrated mainstream schools, persistent challenges such as resource scarcity, inadequate teacher training, defi cient infrastructure, and societal biases hinder their educati onal att ainment. The study advocates for inclusive educati on and equal opportuniti es, urging for policy reforms, resource allocati on, enhanced teacher training, and community involvement.