We are delighted to announce the successful launch of the Sri Lanka One Health University Network (SLOHUN) on 28th May 2025 during the Faculty of Medicine Academic Sessions 2025. SLOHUN is the first national-level One Health university network in Sri Lanka, integrating human, animal, and environmental health through cross-disciplinary collaboration.

This pioneering initiative brings together the University of Ruhuna, University of Peradeniya, and University of Jaffna, setting the foundation for a united academic front to tackle complex global health challenges.

SLOHUN is chaired by Prof. Champica K. Bodinayake, Head of the Duke-Ruhuna Collaborative Research Centre, University of Ruhuna. The initiative is strengthened by the leadership of Prof. Ajith De S. Nagahawatte (Faculty of Medicine, Ruhuna), Snr. Prof. Mangala C.S. De Silva (Faculty of Science, Ruhuna), Prof. Indunil Pathirana (Faculty of Agriculture, Ruhuna), Prof. Rajendra Surenthirakumaran (Faculty of Medicine, Jaffna), Prof. Ruwani S. Kalupahana (Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Peradeniya), and Prof. Indika Gawarammana (Faculty of Medicine, Peradeniya). The network is expertly coordinate by Dr. Ruvini Kurukulasooriya, who has played a pivotal role in bringing together the institutions and teams that drive this mission forward.

International collaboration is a cornerstone of SLOHUN, and we are honored to receive continued support from Duke University, USA. Esteemed collaborators including Prof. Gayani Tillekeratne, Prof. Nishad Jayasundara, Prof. Truls Østbye, and Prof. Christopher Woods, whose

expertise enhances the network’s global relevance. We extend our sincere thanks to all academic leaders, collaborators, and institutions who helped make this vision a reality. Special appreciation goes to Mr. Pramitha Evin, Research Scientist,

for developing and preparing the launch presentation, and Ms. Binuri De Silva, Pre-intern Medical Student, for delivering the narration.

This is just the beginning of a transformative journey. Together, we look forward to leading impactful, collaborative research and education under the One Health vision.