Hotels (Commonwealth Union) _ Browns Hotels & Resorts has unveiled its inaugural Naturalist Training Programme at Hotel Sigiriya, marking World Wildlife Day with a commitment to fostering responsible environmental stewardship among local youth.
In collaboration with experts from the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation, the innovative 3-month program is designed to inspire participants towards a deeper understanding of wildlife and conservation practices. Led by seasoned experts in zoology and wildlife management from the Sigiriya Divisional Zone, the program combines classroom instruction with hands-on field experience.
Suhan Malinda, a Zoologist and Ranger from Sigiriya, inaugurated the program with an engaging lesson focused on the Asian Elephant. The session culminated in a Safari to Hurulu Eco Park, offering participants the rare opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Through immersive field training and firsthand encounters, students gained invaluable insights into elephant behavior and conservation efforts.
Shehan Gregory, General Manager of Hotel Sigiriya, underscored the program’s importance in advancing sustainability efforts and uplifting local communities. He emphasized the initiative’s role in fostering a deep reverence for wildlife and simultaneously opening avenues for promising careers within the tourism and hospitality sectors. Gregory’s remarks shed light on the program’s multifaceted impact, highlighting its ability to not only promote environmental stewardship but also to empower individuals by providing them with meaningful opportunities for growth and development in their communities.
Future sessions of the Naturalist Training Programme will explore Sri Lanka’s migrant bird species, delve into the world of endemic wildlife such as the Gray Slender Loris, and include adventurous night trekking expeditions. The program aims to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge, contributing to both conservation efforts and the development of eco-conscious tourism practices.
