COLOMBO : The 11th Annual Scientific Sessions and International Conference of the Sri Lanka Association for Laboratory Animal Science (SLALAS) centered around ‘Openness, Transparency, and Accountability in Laboratory Animal Science – The Unmet Need,’ took place on January 20th and 21st, 2024, at the Hilton Colombo. The event welcomed a distinguished panel of guests, including Chief Guest Emeritus Prof. Patricia V Turner from Canada and Guests of Honor Prof. Cynthia Pekow (US) and Emeritus Prof. Vera Baumans (Netherlands). Guest speakers included Prof. Arvind Ingle (India), Dr. Suresh Poosala (India), Dr. Patrick Sharp (USA), Prof. Cholawat Pacharinsak (USA) and Dr. Mayuri Thammitiyagodage (SL). The conference aimed to foster discussions on effecting change and progress in laboratory animal care and accountability. This event was also the first time the SLALAS Mace (donated by Dr. D S Kodikara) was carried in the inaugural ceremony procession.
SLALAS was founded by Prof. Mangala Gunatilake in 2012, and she concluded her second tenure from 2023-24 with this conference. Her Presidential Address delved into her academic journey, the diverse species of laboratory animals during the global pandemic, and the significance of animal research in Nobel Prizes. The inaugural ceremony featured the first Laboratory Animal Science Exhibition, showcasing displays of various species. The second session included keynote addresses on topics from Artificial Intelligence to Lab animal alternatives, with young investigators presenting their research on the first day. Distinguished guests at the event, Prof. Turner, Prof. Cynthia and Dr. Poosala received honorary SLALAS memberships for their support. Day 1 concluded with e-poster presentations, while the second day featured continued free paper sessions, a symposium on anesthesia, and a groundbreaking round table discussion with Animal Facility Technical Officers.
The conference wrapped up with an awards ceremony, recognizing winners from the Art, Photography, and Poster Competitions held throughout the year, as well as Best Oral Presentations. The Dr. Shamini Jayasekara Award for Best Oral Presentation went to Ms. K.K.K. Perera. The Oncoseek bio awards for Posters went to Ms. K.H.E. Fernando, Ms. P.T.A. Thilakarathna and Ms. J.M.N.J. Jayathilake in first, second and third place respectively. The oral presentation awards went to M.E.N. Saumya and K.K.K. Perera placed first and second respectively. Dr. Hasanthi Ratnadiwakara received the Vera Baumans Award for “Best Journal Article”. The conference concluded with the AGM, where President-Elect Dr. Sachini Amarasekara assumed office for the upcoming year.
