First-year students enrolled in the Practical Module in Silviculture, Ecology, and Forest Mensuration recently honed their skills through intensive field training. Led by dedicated faculty, participants conducted hands-on exercises in forest inventory, ecological assessments, tree measurement techniques, and silvicultural applications across diverse Sri Lankan forest sites.
This dynamic program bridged theory and practice, equipping students with tools for precise mensuration, habitat evaluation, and sustainable forest management. The experience ignited a passion for forestry science and environmental guardianship.
First-year students in Principles and Practice of Silviculture gained invaluable hands-on experience during recent field classes, expertly led by Snr. Prof. Hemanthi Ranasinghe. The sessions immersed participants in forest management techniques, tree planting demonstrations, site assessments, and sustainable silvicultural practices across key Sri Lankan woodland sites. Through active fieldwork, students applied classroom concepts to real-world scenarios, learning about species selection, stand improvement, and ecosystem restoration. These outings sparked enthusiasm for forestry innovation and responsible land stewardship.
First-year students in Principles of Wildlife Ecology recently immersed themselves in real-world learning during field classes at Lunugamvehera National Park, Anawilundawa Sanctuary, and Bellanwila-Attidiya Wetland Reserve. Under the guidance of Dr. Sandali Dissanayake, participants collected scientific data, conducted birdwatching surveys, joined a community cleanup session, and explored core principles of wildlife ecology, conservation, and management practices. These dynamic outings bridged classroom theory with practical skills, fostering a deeper understanding of habitat dynamics, biodiversity monitoring, and sustainable stewardship in Sri Lanka’s vital ecosystems. Students returned inspired, equipped to tackle real conservation challenges.
The Youth Climate Ambassadors (YCA) Programme, organized by the British Council in collaboration with Earth Lanka, engaged students from the Department of Forestry and Environmental Science at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. This initiative provided participants with the opportunity to connect with the university’s Sustainability Center, gaining hands-on experience in climate action, environmental awareness, and community engagement.
As part of the programme, all students participated in the Climate Spark exhibition, showcasing their community-based climate action projects. Through the programme, students developed skills to address pressing environmental challenges and contributed to fostering sustainable practices, demonstrating the critical role of youth in building resilient and environmentally conscious communities.
Project Green Bridge
This project addresses climate change by integrating traditional paddy farming knowledge with modern technology in the Yaggapitiya Division of Kurunegala. The project aims to preserve this indigenous knowledge, develop more accurate and sustainable forecasting methods, reconnect youth with nature, bridge the technological gap for elders, and enhance farmers’ climate resilience.
Project Living Roots
Living Roots is a climate adaptation initiative implemented in the Ittapana area of Kalutara, addressing the impacts of seawater intrusion and rising soil salinity on coastal livelihoods. The project involved initial community assessments, including field visits and pre-evaluation surveys, followed by awareness sessions to enhance understanding of climate change and its local impacts. Building on locally available resources, the initiative introduced a nature-based, value-added approach using mangrove apple (Kirala) to demonstrate sustainable livelihood opportunities. By linking mangrove conservation with income generation, the project promotes both environmental sustainability and economic resilience within the community.
Project Resurge
RESURGE is a volunteer training initiative focused on community disaster response and psychosocial support. It empowers young people with practical skills, empathy, and a strong sense of purpose to support communities in times of crisis and recovery, while strengthening resilience, promoting mental well-being, and encouraging youth-led action for sustainable impact. By fostering leadership, collaboration, and preparedness, RESURGE is shaping a generation ready to respond, rebuild, and lead with compassion.
Project Waves of Change
The Waves of Change project is an integrated coastal assessment initiative at Calido Beach following the 2017 sandbar breach at the mouth of the Kalu Ganga. It aims to understand how natural coastal changes have affected the environment and the lives of local communities. Findings show that despite significant shoreline changes, the area still supports diverse plant and animal life. At the same time, coastal erosion, altered landforms, and economic challenges, especially for fishers, highlight the real-world impacts on livelihoods. The project emphasizes continuous monitoring and community participation to support sustainable coastal management in the Kalutara region.
