Category Archives: Field Trips

A field visit on Protected Area Management was conducted for fourth-year undergraduate students under the guidance of Dr. Sandali Dissanayake, offering valuable exposure to real-world conservation and governance practices. The programme focused on protected area management and wildlife observation, enabling students to understand ecological dynamics and field-based conservation approaches. A key highlight was the interactive engagement with diverse stakeholders, including park management authorities, police officers, farmers, local communities, and safari drivers. These discussions provided practical insights into challenges such as human–wildlife conflict, resource use, and collaborative management strategies. This field experience strengthened students’ understanding of multi-stakeholder involvement in effective protected area management and sustainable conservation.

A field visit on Wildlife Conservation and Management was conducted for third-year undergraduates by Dr. Sandali Dissanayake, providing valuable hands-on learning in real-world conservation settings. Students explored key areas including species and habitat management, sampling and monitoring techniques, and park management practices. The programme also highlighted the role of ecotourism and wildlife tourism in supporting conservation while promoting sustainable livelihoods. This field experience enhanced students’ practical skills and understanding of effective wildlife management.

2nd-year environmental science students joined with Dr. Chamila Pathirana for a field visit to a wastewater treatment facility. Key highlights included primary/secondary treatment processes, biological nutrient removal, and effluent monitoring. Dr. Pathirana demonstrated activated sludge systems, disinfection techniques, and sustainable reuse strategies, linking theory to Sri Lanka’s urban challenges. Students tested water quality parameters and explored innovations like constructed wetlands, gaining practical insights for conservation and land use planning.

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.