Abstract:
This research paper aims at finding the challenges faced by the undergraduates of Faculty of Islamic
Studies and Arabic Language at South Eastern University of Sri Lanka in speaking English. This
research employed descriptive, qualitative method. The sample consisted of 50 undergraduates of
Faculty of Islamic Studies and Arabic Language at South Eastern University of Sri Lanka. The data
were collected by using questionnaire distribution to the selected undergraduates. The research
result indicated that there are some types of challenges and the causes for the challenges found in
speaking English among the third year undergraduates of Faculty of Islamic Studies and Arabic
Language at South Eastern University of Sri Lanka. The identified challenges are Fear of making
mistakes while speaking in English language, Inadequate vocabulary knowledge, shyness, poor
background knowledge in English language, Dominance of mother tongue and Lack of confidence.
Fear of making mistakes is the most influencing factor in the third FIA undergraduates' English
speaking. And then, lack of confidence and shyness influence in their speaking skill of English. These
are the major factors, effect on the English speaking of third year undergraduates of Faculty of
Islamic Studies and Arabic Language at South Eastern University of Sri Lanka.
