About the Department
Three decades of excellence in fisheries education, research, and community service.
OUR HISTORY
A Legacy of Fisheries Excellence
The Department of Fisheries began in 1998 as the Centre for Development of Fisheries, founded through the efforts of Prof. K. Chitravadivelu. It was formally established as a department in 2009 under Prof. Sivashanthini Kuganathan.
Since then, the Department has offered General and Honours Degrees in Fisheries Science, supported by postgraduate research and multidisciplinary studies. It has produced hundreds of graduates and contributed significantly to fisheries research, environmental conservation, and sustainable aquatic resource management.
The Department continues to expand its education, research, and community outreach, with plans to strengthen infrastructure and introduce new programmes in sustainable fisheries, ocean management, and marine conservation.
Our Vision
To be a center of excellence in fisheries and marine sciences education, research, and outreach, contributing to the sustainable development of fisheries resources and the well-being of coastal communities in Sri Lanka and the wider Indian Ocean region.
Our Mission
- Provide high-quality education and training in fisheries, aquaculture, and marine sciences.
- Conduct impactful research that addresses national and regional fisheries challenges.
- Engage with fishing communities through extension, technology transfer, and policy advocacy.
- Foster partnerships with national and international institutions for collaborative advancement.
INFRASTRUCTURE
Our Facilities
Modern laboratories, research stations, and field equipment supporting hands-on learning and cutting-edge research.
Aquaculture Research Station
Outdoor hatchery and grow-out ponds for breeding and rearing commercially important fish species.
Fisheries Biology Laboratory
Equipped for fish taxonomy, anatomy, age determination, and reproductive biology studies.
Water Quality Laboratory
Analytical instruments for measuring physical, chemical, and biological parameters of aquatic systems.
Marine Ecology Laboratory
Facilities for benthic surveys, plankton analysis, and coral reef monitoring studies.
Fish Health & Pathology Lab
Molecular diagnostics, histopathology, and microbiological analysis for fish disease research.
Field Research Vessel
A dedicated boat for coastal surveys, sampling, and student field training in Palk Bay waters.
Computer & GIS Lab
Workstations with GIS and statistical software for spatial analysis and fisheries modeling.
Reference Museum Collection
A curated collection of preserved fish specimens for teaching and taxonomic reference.
Visit Our Department
Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Science, University of Jaffna,
Thirunelvely, Jaffna, Sri Lanka