A century of scientific exploration. That’s what these walls whisper. Welcome to the Department of Zoology at the University of Peradeniya.
Established in July 1961 this department wasn’t the first. The University of Colombo boasted a Zoology department first. But Peradeniya’s quickly carved its own niche. It became a center for learning. It grew into a hub for research in Sri Lanka.
Initially just five departments existed within the new Faculty of Science. Zoology was among them. In its early years it was administered by its Colombo counterpart. But by 1963 it stood on its own. Three professors formed its initial staff headed by Professor Hilary Crusz.
The first Special Degree programs in Zoology began in 1965. Only six students joined that pioneering cohort. A remarkable start considering its expansion. This number grew significantly. Today over 120 students study various courses.
The department boasts a comprehensive curriculum. It covers animal diversity ecology behavior physiology genetics embryology and histology. Applied aspects are stressed. Courses include zoological techniques fisheries entomology parasitology wildlife management and environmental science.
The Department’s museum houses animal specimens and skeletal material. The Invertebrate Systematics and Diversity Facility ISDF is a recent addition. It proudly houses the Smithsonian insect collections from Sri Lanka. This collection is currently being digitized. It will make data more accessible worldwide.
Postgraduate research flourishes too. The Board of Study in Zoological Sciences oversees MPhil and PhD programs. MSc courses in wildlife management and applied epidemiology are available. Workshops short courses and seminars are regularly conducted. The Department remains a vibrant institution. It continues to cater to the educational needs of many students. It plays a crucial role in shaping future generations of zoologists. It further advances the understanding of Sri Lanka’s unique biodiversity. Explore the corridors of discovery that lie ahead.