Inauguration of the International Training Program (ITP-2018) on Terrestrial & Aquatic Wildlife and Primate Conservation organized for the second time by the Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Sri Jayawardenepura, Sri Lanka in collaboration with the Primate Research Institute (PRI), Kyoto University, Japan was held on 19th November 2018. Prof. Sampath Amaratunge, Vice Chancellor of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Prof. Hemanthi Ranasinghe, Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies, Prof. Takakazu Yumoto, Director, Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Mr. Upali Rathnkaye, Director General, Tourism Development Authority, Prof. Sarath Kotagama, Prof. Michel Huffman, Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Prof. Tanaka Hiroyoku, Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Japan were among the distinguished guests. ITP 2018 was coordinated by Prof. Charmalie Nahallage, Prof. Prasad M. Jayaweera, and Dr. Kamal Ranatunga.
Participants of ITP 2018, representing Kyoto University Japan, were given the opportunity to get an incomparable exposure to unique biodiversity hotspots also with the coverage of UNESCO protected heritage sites and forest reserves in Sri Lanka from 20th to 28th November 2018.