Tree Planting Ceremony to Commemorate Asia Laboratory Animal Day 2024

The University of Colombo, in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Association for Laboratory Animal Science (SLALAS) and the Base for Enthusiasts of Environmental Science and Zoology (BEEZ), successfully commemorated Asia Laboratory Animal Day announced by the Asian Federation of Laboratory Animal Science Associations (AFLAS) on November 29, 2024, with a symbolic tree planting ceremony held at the Faculty of Science. This event, which took place near the Mini Urban Forest Area, was organized to honour the invaluable contributions of laboratory animals in advancing scientific research and improving human health.

Senior Professor (Chair) H D Karunaratne, Vice-Chancellor of the University, planted a Bauhinia racemosa (Maila) tree, a species recognized for its significant value in the fields of ethnopharmacology and phytomedicine. The ceremony was attended by the Executive Committee members of SLALAS, including the current President Dr. Sachini Amarasekara, and the founding President Prof. Mangala Gunatilake, academic and non-academic staff members of the Department of Zoology & Environment Sciences, and students from BEEZ.

The tree planting ceremony was a powerful reminder of not only the University of Colombo’s contributions to the field of laboratory animal science but also its commitment to advancing sustainability, ethical research, and environmental stewardship. Through this symbolic event, the university took a tangible step to support Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production reinforcing the importance of responsible research practices in laboratory animal science, particularly through the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement), and highlighted the need for environmental sustainability alongside scientific progress.

Media Courtesy: FOS Media