AVIFAUNA NEXUS ’26, organised by the Trinity College Ornithology Club, was held on 17th and 18th August 2026, bringing together students for two days of birdwatching, outdoor activities, teamwork and exploration at Wasgamuwa.
The programme began with a welcome by the President of the Ornithology Club, followed by an introduction to the resource persons, Mr Akila Peiris and Mr Dilshan Maduranga, Ornithologists and Research Assistants from the Faculty of Science, University of Colombo. They conducted a practical Ornithology Workshop, introducing participants to bird identification, biodiversity documentation, citizen science and the use of platforms such as eBird and iNaturalist.
The workshop was followed by team-building activities, where students from different grades took part in challenges that encouraged communication, cooperation, leadership and problem-solving. A guided nature walk then gave participants an opportunity to apply their field skills while observing their surroundings.
After dinner, the Trinity College Scouts Troop organised a campfire with songs, performances and activities, bringing the participants together for an informal evening.
The second day began with an early-morning birdwatching safari at Wasgamuwa National Park. Participants explored the park and its diverse habitats, observing and identifying more than 20 bird species. The safari allowed them to put their bird identification skills into practice while observing Sri Lanka’s avian diversity in its natural environment.
The afternoon featured outdoor activities conducted by the Trinity College Scouts Troop, including rope climbing, Kim’s Game, first aid and map reading. These activities gave students opportunities to develop practical skills while working together.
The expedition concluded with a closing ceremony, where participation certificates were presented to the participants. Tokens of appreciation were also presented to the resource persons for their contribution to the programme. The ceremony ended with a vote of thanks delivered by the Vice President, Master Biman Mederigama.
A Conservation Initiative for the Future
As part of AVIFAUNA NEXUS ’26, the Ornithology Club also began a long-term conservation initiative in front of the T150 Sesquicentennial Anniversary Building at Trinity College, Kandy. The first step of the project was carried out on 14th September 2026.
The initiative is intended to be continued by future members of the TCK Ornithology Club, allowing successive generations of students to maintain and develop the project over time. It reflects the Club’s aim of not only learning about birds and nature, but also contributing to their conservation within the College premises.
The Ornithology Club extends its appreciation to the Former Principal, Very Rev. Fr. Araliya Jayasundara OSB, the Vice Principals, Director of TCCEI, Mr Wasana Dissanayake, and the College Transportation Department for their encouragement, guidance and support. The Club also thanks the Teacher-in-Charge, accompanying teachers, Health Centre representative, resource persons, Trinity College Scouts Troop, participants and their parents for their contribution to the programme.
AVIFAUNA NEXUS ’26 gave students an opportunity to develop their knowledge of birds, gain practical experience and take part in outdoor activities at Wasgamuwa. With the conservation initiative now established within the College premises, the Club hopes that the work begun through the programme will continue with future generations of students.
Reviewed by Sawin Danthasinghe, President, Ornithology Club of Trinity College, Kandy
