Exploring the Metaverse: The Future of Virtual Reality

Colombo-South

• AIESEC Sri Lanka, Lifestyle, Youth

Exploring the Metaverse: The Future of Virtual Reality

Welcome to the exciting world of the Metaverse, a virtual realm where the boundaries between the digital and physical worlds blur. As technology continues to advance, virtual reality has emerged as a transformative medium, offering us immersive experiences and new ways of interacting with digital content. The Metaverse is a virtual universe, a vast interconnected space where users can interact with each other and digital environments in real time.

A person exploring the metaverse 

 

The metaverse has the power to transform social interactions by offering an unprecedented platform for connection and communication. With the metaverse, people can engage in virtual conferences and network with professionals globally, as well as enjoy virtual concerts with friends from different parts of the world. It breaks down geographical barriers, creating global communities and facilitating large-scale collaboration. The metaverse offers exciting opportunities for commerce and business. Virtual marketplaces provide immersive shopping experiences, enabling users to try on virtual clothing, test products, and make purchases from the comfort of their homes.

An symbolic image on e-commerce 

 

The metaverse revolutionizes entertainment and gaming, offering a new level of immersive experiences. Gamers can explore vast virtual worlds, interact with fellow players, and engage in exciting quests and events. Beyond gaming, the it enables users to visit virtual museums, attend live performances, and even experience historical sites in a lifelike manner. The possibilities for immersive entertainment are limitless.

 

The metaverse has the potential to transform education through immersive and interactive learning. Students can delve into history, witness scientific phenomena, and participate in simulations that deepen their understanding of complex concepts.

 

As technology continues to evolve, we must embrace the opportunities offered by the metaverse while addressing the associated challenges. By doing so, we can collectively shape a future where the boundaries between the physical and virtual worlds merge, creating a truly immersive and interconnected digital landscape.

 

by Nisansa Adikari,

Content Writer – Showcasing Team,

AIESEC in University of Moratuwa.

 

Read More →

• iGV, Leadership, Volunteer

Project Heartbeat 1.1: For a Healthier Society

Heartbeat 1.1, a meaningful Global Volunteer project organized by AIESEC in University of Moratuwa, brought together with the Exchange Participants Abdelrahman from Jordan and Kawther from Egypt for the impact of Sustainable Development Goal 3 to increase public consciousness regarding the prevention of non-communicable illnesses and the significance of mental well-being, ultimately to promote a healthier society.

A volunteer of Project Heartbeat helping a small child

Their arrival marked the beginning of their collaboration with The Opportunity Provider, “ADIC” Sri Lanka (Alcohol and Drug Information Centre). In this partnership, impactful awareness sessions and workshops on drug prevention were conducted at ADIC, aimed at promoting a healthier and drug-free society. The exchange participants also extended their efforts, hosting a valuable session called “Good Health Session” for undergraduates at the University of Moratuwa. This session emphasized the importance of good health and the prevention of drug abuse, coupled with a lively exercise session that left the participants both educated and interested.

As a final act of care, the Organizing Committee facilitated an Eye Check-Up event called “Visionquest” in collaboration with Vasan Eye Care Hospital, ensuring the well-being of the University community. Heartbeat 1.1 proved by act of meaningful impact on SDG 3, significantly improving awareness and preventative measures concerning non-communicable diseases and mental health.

 

A set of spectacles at the Eye checkup organized by Heartbeat Organizing Commitee

 

 

 

Why SDG 3 contribute for a healthier society?

SDG by United Nations is a global agenda consisting of 17 goals aimed at addressing pressing challenges and promoting sustainable development for a better and more equitable world while SDG 3 is dedicated to “Good Health and Well-being.” It seeks to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.

Despite moderate improvements in SDG 3, major challenges remain as highlighted by the Sustainable Development Report, necessitating further efforts to ensure that the goal’s targets are adequately met in the Sri Lanka.

In Sri Lanka, over 80% of fatalities are attributed to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and chronic lung disease. Additionally, more than 25% of the population is overweight, and one in four adults engage in tobacco consumption.

According to the Sustainable Development Council of Sri Lanka, the nation’s alcohol consumption stands at 3.56 Litres of pure alcohol per person per year for individuals aged 15 years and above, as of 2020. Concurrently, the coverage of treatment interventions, encompassing pharmacological, psychosocial, rehabilitation, and aftercare services, for substance use disorders remains at 2.4% in the country.

These statistics underscore the importance of addressing substance abuse and promoting effective treatment strategies to enhance the well-being and overall health of the population. Encouraging responsible alcohol consumption and expanding accessibility to comprehensive treatment interventions will be crucial steps towards achieving a healthier and more sustainable future for Sri Lanka.

As we aim to tackle these pressing health issues, our efforts align with the broader objectives of SDG 3.4 by “Good Health Session” and 3.5 by “Visionquest”. Heartbeat 1.1 illustrates the power of youth-led initiatives in fostering positive change and progress towards SDG 3. Through their collective efforts and engagement, the event successfully improved awareness on health and well-being, actively contributing to the global mission of creating a healthier and more sustainable future for all.

 

by Vasuli Perera,

Content Writer – Digital Experience Team,

AIESEC in University of Moratuwa.

 

Read More →

• Lifestyle, MentalHealth

A Roadmap to Mental Wellness in the Digital Age

  A Roadmap to Mental Wellness in the Digital Age

 

As we immerse ourselves in the digital age, it is crucial to examine its impact on our mental well-being and discover ways to cultivate resilience, balance, and self-care amidst the ongoing digital revolution.

One significant issue is the constant exposure to screens and notifications, which can overwhelm our minds. The effects of digital overload on mental health are severe. Hence practical tips for setting healthy boundaries, unplugging from technology, and embracing moments of digital detox should be encouraged to restore our mental equilibrium.

Social media has transformed the way we perceive ourselves and others, leading to comparison culture, validation-seeking behaviour, and the presentation of curated online personas that affect our self-esteem. 

While technology connects us globally, it can also contribute to feelings of loneliness and isolation. The importance of building authentic relationships, both online and offline, should be emphasized, especially among the younger generation, along with the exploration of meaningful online communities and the need to strike a balance between virtual and in-person connections.

The digital landscape can pose risks to mental health, especially for vulnerable populations. Fostering digital well-being in children, teenagers, and individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions is crucial. Topics such as cyberbullying, screen time management, and digital literacy should be addressed, giving a prominent focus, and providing insights and resources for individuals and communities to become guardians of cyber wellness.

In this era of rapid technological advancements, navigating the digital maze requires mindfulness, resilience, and self-care. Understanding the impact of the digital age on mental health and implementing strategies to foster balance and well-being will enable us to harness the power of technology while safeguarding our mental wellness. Let us embark on this transformative journey together, embracing the digital age with open minds and compassionate hearts.

 

by Hansani Kaumadi,

Content Writer – Showcasing Team,

AIESEC in University of Moratuwa.

 

Read More →

• Leadership, Lifestyle, Uncategorized

What does it take to reach greater heights?

What does it take to reach greater heights?

I’m a big believer in “If you have the mental strength, you can achieve anything” mindset. Regardless of what I believe there might be some who does not stand with me on that. Some might too. It’s not surprising though, the world being such a diverse place, it’s natural that people have contrasting opinions but if we look at people who HAVE reached greater heights, the effect of mental strength is evidently clear. Not only in finding gains in sports or financially, in a world where mental illnesses like anxiety and depression are skyrocketing, improving mental strength could go as far as saving someone’s life. So what’s all this fuss I’m going on about mental strength and what not? Let me try within my ability, through my experience to provide you with a sense of that.

 

People often say if you are talented you can do anything, but I digress. What if you are extremely talented, the best at something but you never have that confidence, that mental strength to go out and do something with that talent? What if you are not willing enough to go through all the pain and sacrifice needed to achieve your goals? As a matter of fact, even getting talented in something needs an extreme level of mental strength doesn’t it? If you speak with any athlete or sports person at the top of his/her/their game, they will agree with me. All the work out schedules, the diets, repeating the same technique over and over again. If for one moment they thought “I can’t do this. I give up”, they wouldn’t be where they are. I would like to make a point though. Yes, as humans we get disheartened sometimes, we lose hope, we feel too much pressure but if we are mentally resilient, we will come out of it even stronger. If we look at the life story of any sports person (or a successful individual), you’ll find that they too have had to go through hard times, failures and some horrific incidents in some cases. What sets them apart is the way they stood up from those and carried on with their goals even better. The “fastest man on Earth”, multiple Olympic gold medalist Usain Bolt said and I quote “Learning the mind is as important as understanding the body” and I leave it to you to ponder on that.

 

One of the things that have fascinated me recently is para-sports A.K.A the sports of the disabled community. Just imagine having lost their arm/s, leg/s, their eye-sight and so on, the para-athletes still compete at their best. Think about the mental strength, the dedication, the confidence they have. I don’t know about you but if I was in that condition, I can’t even imagine doing what they do. They’ve accepted their disability, not judging it as a weakness but a strength and gone ahead to compete at their best. There’s no better example for the value of mental strength than that. 

 

In each and every success story you’ve read or heard in the sporting world, the under-dogs emerging victorious with unimaginable odds, the player who collapsed on the first lap of a race rising up to end the race as the winner, the team that got soundly beaten by their opponents in the first round returning the favour in the next, this list goes on and on but in each and every one of those cases, mental strength is what stood out. Mental strength – resilience, determination, dedication – could do wonders.

I’m sure you’ve had situations where you wished you had the mental strength to do something. Having that extra little bit of confidence could go a long way. Having that boost of determination could pave a bright path for you. In a world that’s trying to constantly break your spirits, in a world that constantly finds itself at the brink of chaos, mental strength comes in as a prime factor for the better. That’s my opinion and you are welcome to disagree, but for me with my personal experience and all those facts and details about successful people, having mental strength is what it takes to reach greater heights. Not only on a personal level, but as human beings living on this planet. Hope you will take a moment and think about it.  

by Chamath Ranasinghe,

Local Committee Vice President – Digital Experience,

AIESEC in University of Moratuwa. 

Read More →

• Event, Leadership, Uncategorized

IDEALIZE 2023 – Empowering Visionary Innovations

The biggest tech competition is here in town! 

The most awaited Mobile App and Web Development competition – IDEALIZE 2023 powered by Wavenet is yet again ready to make history. As one of the most eminent events in the calendar of AIESEC in University of Moratuwa, IDEALIZE 2023 is ready to deliver an unforgettable experience that will revolutionize the boundaries of technological excellence and inspire the next generation to achieve brilliance beyond bounds!

 

Technology is an integrated core fragment in our life. Over time, with the evolution of technology – dependency towards it has increased as it has raised the quality of life and given a sense of ease and convenience in day-to-day activities. Over time, Web and mobile applications will advance the human experience. University of Moratuwa is known for its outstanding technology specializations pioneering in producing and delivering effective solutions to the audience. In the era where technology reigns supreme, nurturing young talented minds and encouraging innovation is crucial for the progress of society.

 

IDEALIZE 2023 powered by Wavenet is a Mobile App and Web development competition organized by AIESEC in University of Moratuwa to recognize emerging young tech enthusiasts. This speculative initiative is held for the third time this year and will feature trending topics like Artificial Intelligence. With over 600 participants joining from all corners of the country this year, we are thrilled to announce that IDEALIZE 2022 was an overwhelming success. IDEALIZE 2022 was filled with excitement and enthusiasm as attendees engaged in thought-provoking discussions, inspiring presentations and fruitful mentoring sessions.

 

 

We are thrilled to announce that over 1200 zealous tech enthusiasts are participating this year showing unwavering commitment and passion towards the future of technology. IDEALIZE 2023 powered by Wavenet successfully commenced on the 31st of May 2023 with the introduction to IDEALIZE 2023. During the event, two captivating workshops were conducted, immersing participants in the intricacies of Mobile App and Web development, equipping them with invaluable skills and knowledge to catalyze excellence in the world of technology.

 

The Day 01 workshop aimed to provide the participants with a series of informative sessions on Mobile App Development was conducted by Mr. Gayan Dissanayake and Mr. Jayantha Dasanayake from NCINGA, Ms. Dinuri Witharan and Ms. Kanchana Wijethunga from IDEAMART, and Mr. Lakmina Gamage and Mr. Sanka Bimsara from HybeCube Solutions. The Day 02 workshop focused on delivering the participants with educational session on Web App Development was conducted by Mr. Abdul Haady from Calcey Technologies, Mr. Archana Perera from SimCentric Technologies, and Mr. Ajith Samarathunga, Mr. Prasan Nimantha and Mr. Minosh Balasuriya from Fidenz Academy and Micro Rewards by Radical Ledger.

 

IDEALIZE 2023 would not be possible without the help of our partners whose generous support has played a pivotal role in ensuring the resounding success of this exceptional event. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed partners, Wavenet our Title Partner, Platinum Partner- NCINGA, Gold Partner – Creative Software, Technology Partner – Ideamart, DevOps Platform Partner – Ahasa powered by Wavenet. Digital Certificates Partner – Micro Rewards by Radical Ledger, Banner Partner – NGX, Knowledge Partners The AI Team and SimCentric Technologies, Official Imaging & Showcasing Partner – Metropolitan Technologies, our Digital Media Partners – SL WebCast, Colombo Beacon, HackSL, Ceylon 365 and Chokolaate Magazine, and our Gift Partners – Ministry of Memories, BakesbyHer, Sar-G, Feather Project and FairyDay.

 

The event surpassed all expectations, leaving a lasting impression on everyone involved. Building upon this triumph, we anticipate a more remarkable turnout this year. With an exceptional lineup of speakers, interactive workshops, and captivating sessions, we are confident that this upcoming event will attract an even larger audience, fostering an environment of knowledge-sharing and innovation. The stage is set to empower visionary innovators, and we are ready to create another memorable experience for all those who join us. Get ready to be part of something extraordinary!

 

By Aneesah Sabar,

OCVP Events & Public Relations (Idealize 2023)

AIESEC in University of Moratuwa.

Read More →
↑