Report on the Second Knowledge Enhancement Session
Topic: “Identification of Poisonous Snakes in Sri Lanka”
Subject Relevance: Nanchiyalum Neethi Maruthuvamum (Toxicology and Forensic Medicine)
Date: 24th July 2026
Venue: Theraiyar Hall, Faculty of Siddha Medicine, University of Jaffna
The Department of Nanjiyal & Paramparai Maruthuvam, Faculty of Siddha Medicine, University of Jaffna, successfully conducted the second session of its
Knowledge Enhancement Series for Third Year BSMS students on 24th July 2026 at Theraiyar Hall, Faculty of Siddha Medicine, University of Jaffna. The session,organized as part of the Nanchiyalum Neethi Maruthuvamum (Toxicology and Forensic Medicine) curriculum, aimed to strengthen students’ theoretical and practical knowledge of poisonous snakes in Sri Lanka.
The programme commenced with the Presidential Address by Dr. (Ms.) V. Sanmugarajah, Head of the Department of Nanjiyal & Paramparai Maruthuvam,
who highlighted the importance of integrating scientific knowledge with Siddha toxicology and encouraged students to actively engage in the Knowledge
Enhancement Series.
The Resource Person, Dr. (Mrs.) A. Sivaruban, Senior Lecturer, Grade I, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of Jaffna, was introduced by Dr. (Ms.) M.N. Roshana, Senior Lecturer, Department of Nanjiyal & Paramparai Maruthuvam.
Dr. A. Sivaruban delivered an informative and interactive lecture on “Identification of Poisonous Snakes in Sri Lanka,” covering the identification of poisonous and non-poisonous snakes, distinguishing morphological features, medically important venomous species, and the clinical significance of snake identification in toxicology.
She also emphasized the importance of World Snake Day and highlighted the need for public awareness regarding snake conservation and snakebite prevention. The session was further enriched by a poster tour and practical demonstration conducted by an attendant and seven final-year students from the Department of Zoology. Participants observed educational posters, video presentations, and preserved snake specimens while receiving practical explanations on the identification of poisonous and non-poisonous snakes. An interactive question-and-answer session followed, during which students actively engaged with the Resource Person and clarified their doubts.
A total of 43 Third Year BSMS students participated in the programme and benefited from this interdisciplinary learning experience. The session concluded with words of appreciation from student representatives, followed by the Vote of Thanks delivered by Mr. V. Koshikan, Temporary Demonstrator.
An online feedback survey was completed by 31 students, with the results indicating a high level of satisfaction. Participants rated the session as highly informative, well organized, clearly presented, and effective in enhancing their knowledge and understanding of poisonous snakes in Sri Lanka.
The programme was successfully completed at approximately 5.00 p.m., reaffirming the Department’s commitment to providing quality academic enrichment through expert-led learning opportunities and interdisciplinary collaboration.
