The Department of Translation Studies, Faculty of Arts, University of Jaffna, has established a strong academic reputation since introducing its Special Degree in Translation Studies in 2011, addressing both national and global demands for skilled translators. In Sri Lanka, where there is a notable shortage of qualified translators, the department has made a meaningful contribution by developing undergraduates’ professional competencies in English, Tamil, and Sinhala translation, leading to promising employment opportunities in diverse sectors. In line with its commitment to academic excellence and professional growth, the department is conducting a national conference for the first time, marking a significant milestone in its academic development. This inaugural conference reflects the department’s growing stature and aims to provide a valuable platform for scholars, translators, researchers, and students to engage in scholarly dialogue on emerging trends, challenges, and innovations in Translation Studies. 

Conference Theme: “Divided through Languages and United in Translation”

Aim of the Conference

To bring together scholars and practitioners to discuss how translation mitigates the challenges posed by language barriers and enables inclusive communication across different linguistic groups.

Objectives

1. To promote academic research and professional dialogue in Translation Studies.
2. To bring together national-level experts and practitioners for knowledge sharing.
3. To provide opportunities for young researchers and students to present their work.
4. To strengthen the academic profile of the Department of Translation Studies.

Target Participants

• University Academics
• Research Scholars
• Professional Translators and Interpreters
• Postgraduate and undergraduate students
• Representatives from Translation-related Industries and Departments

Expected Outcomes

• Enhance research collaboration among institutions
• Publication of selected papers in a conference proceedings volume
• Improve visibility of the University of Jaffna in the field of Translation Studies
• Strengthen academic and professional networks.

Important Dates:

• Calling for Abstract- 23.12.2025
• Acceptance notification- 05.02.2026
• Full paper Submission- 15.02.2026
• Revised Full paper submission-20.02.2026

Registration Fee

• Paper Presenters- Rs. 3000
• Participants- Rs. 2000

Research Areas –

• Sri Lankan Translators and Technology 
• Lexicography and Translation
• Technical Translation
• Scientific Translation
• Language Variation and Translation
• Official Translation and Interpretation
• Linguistics and Translation

Abstracts and full papers should be submitted via email-tsncuoj@gmail.com.

Innovative research which can benefit translators and trainee translators will be considered for publication.

Guidelines for the submission of Abstract and Full Paper

Abstract Submission

• The abstract should clearly state the aim, research gap, methodology, main findings, and significance of the study.
• Abstract length should be 250–300 words.
• Provide 3–5 keywords at the end of the abstract.
• The abstract must be original and not previously published or presented elsewhere.
• The language of submission should be English (Times New Roman) / Tamil (Unicode) / Sinhala (Unicode).
• Include author name(s), institutional affiliation(s), and email address(es).
• Abstracts must be submitted on or before 31.01.2026.

Full Paper Submission

• Full papers must be prepared based on the accepted abstract.
• The length of the full paper should be 3,000–5,000 words, including references.
• The paper should contain an introduction, literature review, methodology, discussion/analysis, conclusion, and references.
• Manuscripts should follow the Harvard referencing style for in-text citations and reference lists.
• Use A4 size, 12-point font, and 5 line spacing.
• All tables and figures must be clearly numbered and properly cited in the text.
• Submissions must be original and plagiarism-free.
• Full papers should be submitted in MS Word format within the specified deadline.