Magnusson Award winner, presenting research on a global platform and entry into a unique employment scheme: Triple success for MSc Environmental Management student

An MSc Environmental Management student is celebrating triple success after being presented with a university funding award, presenting her research at a conference and being accepted onto a prestigious industry programme.

Charunika Sandamini Arambegedara who studies at the GCU London campus, has recently been presented with the GCU Magnusson Award which grants awardees up to £5000 to support an initiative or personal ambition.

In the same year, Charunika received the news that she would be presenting her research to audiences at the EGU General Assembly, forum where scientists, especially early career researchers, can present their work and discuss their ideas with experts in all fields of geoscience. Charunika has been completing research work alongside the Aerospace Information Research Institute in China, which involves a health study focusing on Sri Lanka.

Charunika has also been accepted onto the ESRI UK Geospatial Accelerator Program; a scheme provided by Esri UK to widen the scope of support for students from Black and mixed Black backgrounds.

Having an exciting few months ahead, Charunika wanted to reflect on her recent achievements:

Magnusson Award

Applying for the Magnusson Award

“I heard about the Magnusson Award from Dr Fatima Ajia at the GCU London campus. She informed us about this opportunity, and I wrote a proposal outlining my project idea to provide after-school educational workshops for underprivileged students in Sri Lanka. With guidance from Dr Ajia and Dr Luka Vucinic, I refined my proposal and submitted my application, which was ultimately selected for the Nicol Family Magnusson Award 2024.”

Being presented with the award

“I felt immensely honoured and grateful to receive the news that my project was chosen for the Nicol Family Magnusson Award. This award means a great deal to me personally, as it aligns with my long-standing dream of improving access to education, especially for those facing socioeconomic challenges.

With this award, I aim to conduct a 3-month after-school workshop providing English, mathematics, and environmental education and education materials to pupils in Sri Lanka who have faced difficulties attending school due to the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and the current economic crisis. Education is a fundamental right, and this project will help break down barriers and provide equal learning opportunities for these children.”

EGU General Assembly

How the opportunity came about

“The opportunity to present my research at the EGU General Assembly arose through my role as a research associate at the ‘Aerospace Information Research Institute’ in China. I have been collaborating with this institute and the Ministry of Health in Sri Lanka on a study investigating the spatial and temporal variation of chronic kidney disease unknown etiology (CKDu) in relation to river basins in Sri Lanka.

I learned more about ArcGIS Pro 3.2.1 software from the GIS and Environmental Management module at GCU London while writing the final full paper of this research, which helped conduct the final analysis related to the water quality aspect of this study. The full paper will be published this coming month.”

Sharing her research on an international platform

“Being given the platform to share my research findings at such a prestigious international conference was an incredibly rewarding experience. This was my first opportunity to present at a large-scale event like the EGU General Assembly, and it filled me with a sense of pride and accomplishment.

This opportunity will undoubtedly benefit my future career goals in several ways. Firstly, it has provided me with valuable experience in effectively communicating complex research to a diverse audience. Secondly, it has allowed me to establish connections and network with other researchers in my field, potentially leading to future collaborations. Moreover, having my work published and presented at a reputable conference like the EGU will strengthen my academic credentials and enhance my prospects for further research opportunities and career advancement.”

ESRI UK Geospatial Accelerator Program

An opportunity to enhance her industry knowledge

“Now that I have been accepted onto the ESRI UK Geospatial Accelerator program for 2024, I am hoping to gain in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience with the latest ESRI software and tools for GIS and remote sensing, which will be invaluable for my future work in environmental management and spatial analysis. Dr Luka Vucinic, our tutor at GCU London, shared this opportunity with our class.

I was thrilled and deeply grateful when I received the news of my acceptance into this prestigious program. It is a testament to my hard work and dedication in the field of GIS, and I am eager to make the most of this opportunity to enhance my expertise.”

How these experiences will benefit Charunika personally and academically

“Collectively, these experiences will benefit me tremendously, both personally and academically. On a personal level, they have boosted my confidence, reinforced my passion for education and research, and motivated me to continue making a positive impact in my community and beyond.

Academically, these achievements will strengthen my qualifications, expand my knowledge and skills, and open doors to further research opportunities and potential collaborations with esteemed institutions and professionals in my field.”

By Rachael McAlonan

Got a SCEBE or GSBS story? Email me at Rachael.McAlonan@gcu.ac.uk or connect with me on social media