On May 15, 2026, the Faculty of Medicine Wellbeing Centre marked a significant milestone in environmental stewardship with the official inauguration of its “Tree Nursery Project”. This initiative reflects a dedicated effort to strengthen planetary health through local action, sustainability, and community collaboration.
Official Launch & Key Participants
The project was ceremonially inaugurated by Prof. R. Surenthirakumaran, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, together with Prof. B. Balagobi, Coordinator of the Wellbeing Centre.
Demonstrating strong student leadership and social responsibility, the event received active participation from:
· The Medical Students’ Union (MSU)
· Students of the 47th Batch
· Students of the 48th Batch
The “Adopt-a-Tree” Initiative
A key highlight of the program was the distribution of 2,500 saplings representing a variety of useful tree species. These saplings were officially handed over to medical students, who will act as their primary caretakers.
The Vision
Students will nurture the saplings within the nursery until they reach a sustainable height and strength. Once matured, the trees will be transplanted to:
· University faculties and educational institutions
· Schools and government establishments
· Roadsides and public spaces across the region
This stepwise approach is expected to improve plant survival rates while fostering a deeper personal connection between future healthcare professionals and environmental conservation.
A Collaborative Ecosystem
The project stands as a model of multi-sectoral collaboration involving academic, governmental, non-profit, and community stakeholders.
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Organization
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Role / Contribution
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Jaffna Health City Project
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Promoting health-oriented urban development
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IMPACT Organisation
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Supporting the “Green Jaffna” initiative
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Green Layer Organisation
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Providing environmental and technical expertise
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Nallur Pradeshiya Sabha
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Facilitating local government coordination
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Local Community
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Ensuring grassroots participation and sustainability
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The saplings for the project were generously sponsored by Mr. Hariharan from Colombo, whose contribution played a vital role in the successful launch of the initiative.
Impact on Planetary Health
By expanding the green canopy across the Jaffna peninsula, the project aims to reduce urban heat effects, improve air quality, and enhance biodiversity.
More importantly, the initiative highlights the close connection between environmental wellbeing and human health. Beginning within the Faculty of Medicine, the “Green Legacy” Tree Nursery Project serves as an inspiring example of how healthcare institutions can contribute meaningfully toward building a healthier and more sustainable future, moving one step closer toward a Greener Sri Lanka.
