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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.

Aquaculture fish farm
Laboratory specimen research
Ocean with fishing boats
Fisherman casting a net

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

Laboratories supporting practical learning, scientific investigations, advanced research projects, and hands-on training in fisheries and aquatic sciences.

General Laboratory

A well-equipped laboratory with essential instruments and facilities for practical training, routine experiments, and hands-on learning in fisheries and aquatic sciences.

Advanced Research Laboratory

A specialized laboratory equipped with advanced scientific instruments to support research projects, experimental investigations, and analytical studies in fisheries and aquatic sciences.

Wet Laboratory & Aquarium Facility

A dedicated wet laboratory with aquarium facilities for maintaining aquatic organisms, conducting controlled experiments, and supporting research on fish biology, physiology, and aquatic ecosystems.

Visit Our Department

Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Science, University of Jaffna,
Thirunelvely, Jaffna, Sri Lanka

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