A Sustainable Support Model for Economically Challenged Students Through an Inclusive Entrepreneurial Innovative Nexus City (IEINC)

Abstract

University students in developing regions, particularly in Northern Sri Lanka, face pressing socioeconomic challenges that threaten their academic success and overall well-being. Many students at the University of Jaffna, particularly those from rural and low-income families, are compelled to take up part-time or full-time jobs that are unrelated to their field of study in order to meet basic living and educational expenses. This misalignment between work and academics often results in poor class attendance, elevated stress, academic delays, and an increased risk of dropout. These issues underscore a critical gap in institutional mechanisms designed to support students in achieving both financial security and academic continuity. To address this challenge, this study proposes a sustainable, student-centered solution through the establishment of a university affiliated, employment-oriented mall, Inclusive Entrepreneurial Innovative Nexus City (IEINC) adjacent to the Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce, University of Jaffna. This multi-functional facility is designed to offer skill-based, flexible part-time job opportunities that are aligned with students’ academic programs and career aspirations. The mall includes an HR-matching unit, student-led entrepreneurial incubators, departmental micro-enterprises, wellness zones, and retail outlets for local producers. Each floor of the city is functionally designed to serve specific purposes, ranging from student businesses and consulting centers to therapeutic services and inclusive infrastructure for vulnerable groups, such as children with autism. The study adopts a mixed approach to understand the need for this IEINC; field survey, focus group discussions, and interviews were conducted with 60 undergraduates, 25 entrepreneurs, and 20 experts, including educators, HR professionals, and social workers. This model for sustainable marketing for entrepreneurs’ brands from business sectors. Insights from this analysis help identify targeted interventions, including flexible class scheduling, mentoring, and financial counseling, to further support students in need. Supervised by HR professionals and faculty mentors, the mall aims to create a harmonious balance between academic responsibilities and financial independence. Additionally, it promotes entrepreneurship, supports women-headed families, encourages local economic development, and strengthens university-community collaboration. The proposed model is both scalable and replicable, offering a practical framework that can be implemented in other universities facing similar socioeconomic conditions. This inclusive model empowers students to “earn while they learn” while informing higher education policies and contributing to broader socioeconomic development goals.