Department of Parasitology of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya conducted a training programme to the Development Officers, who are newly recruited by the Ministry of Education for Environmental Conservation and Dengue Prevention tasks at School communities in Kelaniya and Gampaha Educational Zones.

The training program was coordinated by Dr. Nayana Gunanthilaka, Senior Lecturer of the Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya on a request made by the Educational Directors of Kelaniya and Gampaha educational zones.

This event was held on 16^th October, 2017 at the Pre-clinical Auditorium, Faculty of Medicine University of Kelaniya and Practical Sessions at the Parasitology Laboratory of the Department of Parasitology from 9.00 am – 2.00 pm. A total of 48 participants from Kelaniya (23) and Gampaha (25) Educational Zones were participated for the training workshop.

Dr. Nayana Gunathilaka, welcomed the participants and delivered overview of the training programme, followed by a lecture on Dengue situation, identification of dengue vectors and breeding habitats. Ms. Lakmini Radika, Senior Environmental Officer, Central Environmental Authority (CEA) delivered a Lecture on Solid Waste Management and 3 R concept. Dr. Annuradhini Kasthurirathna, Head and Senior Lecturer of the Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya conducted a lecture on Community empowerment and active participation for dengue prevention activities at school level.

A practical session on the identification of adult and larval stages of dengue vectors was conducted at the Parasitology laboratory at the Department of Parasitology. A filed visit was conducted to observe current activities implemented at the Faculty of Medicine on environmental conservation. Participants visited the Compost production site, biogas unit, waste segregation area and observed.

Mr. W.G.R.I. Kumara, Landscaping Supervisor, Mr. Alwis, Public Health Inspector (PHI) and Mr. Lalith, Maintenance administrator of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya facilitated for this event. Further, entomological monitoring for dengue vector breeding habitats was conducted at the Faculty Premises. All participants were actively involved in laboratory and field sessions.

Lectures

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Practical session

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Field session

Entomological surveys to identify breeding places of dengue mosquitoes

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Green practices at the Faculty premises

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