LUNCH TIME TALK - “FROM HEALING ROOTS TO GLOBAL IMPACT: MY JOURNEY TO INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT”

The Career Guidance Unit (CGU) of the Faculty of Indigenous Medicine, University of Colombo, successfully organized a Lunch Time Talk under the theme of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production, titled “From Healing Roots to Global Impact: My Journey to International Development.” The session was held on the 29th of April 2025 from 12.00 noon to 1.00 p.m. at the Mini Auditorium of the Faculty. The resource person was Dr. Zihan Zarouk, Project Specialist at the United Nations Development Programme. The workshop was conducted as an interactive dialogue to inspire and educate BAMS and BUMS undergraduates on the importance of sustainability within their fields. It aimed to explore how traditional healing systems like Ayurveda and Unani can contribute to global sustainability efforts. The event also highlighted how local healing knowledge can make a global impact through international development. The workshop was organized under the patronage of Prof. Pathirage Kamal Perera, Dean of the Faculty. It was coordinated by Dr. R.H.S.K. De Silva – Coordinator – CGU, Dr. S. Weerasekara – Secretary – CGU, Dr. A.L.M. Ihsan – Senior Member – CGU, Dr. R.L.Y.U. Rathnayake – Senior Member – CGU and Dr. M.J.H.P. Sabra – Lecturer (Probationary). The discussion encouraged students to see themselves as future change-makers in the sphere of sustainable development. It emphasized the connection between traditional medical practices and responsible production and consumption. The interactive nature of the session enabled active engagement and critical reflection. Dr. Zihan Zarouk shared valuable insights from his journey, motivating students to blend ancient wisdom with modern development goals. The talk enhanced understanding of how indigenous medicine contributes to achieving SDG 12. Participants appreciated the opportunity to learn practical strategies for sustainability. The workshop achieved its intended outcomes by promoting environmental and professional responsibility.