Mangroves are nature’s protectors—they shield coastlines from erosion, provide breeding
grounds for marine life, filter water, and store carbon to combat climate change. Recognizing
their importance, UNESCO has designated July 26th as the International Day for the
Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem, observed annually to raise awareness and support
global efforts to protect mangrove habitats.

In connection with this significant event, the Biodiversity Secretariat of the Ministry of
Environment, in collaboration with the Managing Together Project, organized an awareness
workshop and field session at the University of Jaffna on 18th July 2025. The event was
coordinated by the Jaffna Entomological Society (JES).

The aim of the program was to raise awareness among university students about the value of
mangrove ecosystems and the ways to protect and manage them sustainably.
The workshop was conducted in two sessions:

I. Lecture Session
Topic: “The Ecology, Significance, and Current Status of the Mangrove Ecosystem”
Date & Time: 18th July 2025, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Venue: Department of Zoology, University of Jaffna
Resource persons: Prof.Mrs.RGnaneswaran ( JES) and Dr Manoj ( MOE)

II. Field Demonstration
Topic: Mangrove Species Identification and Ecosystem Ecology
Date & Time: 18th July 2025, from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Location: Mandaithevu Mangrove Ecosystem
Resource persons: Prof.Mrs.RGnaneswaran, Dr . S. Arthiyan, Ms. M. Mathula, Ms.
Thilakshika and Ms. Lackshitha ( JES)
and Dr Manoj ( MOE)

The program was officially inaugurated by Professor R. Gnaneswaran, President of JES, and
was followed by a talk by Dr. Manoj from the Ministry of Environment.