New Premises of URDNP Inaugurated at the Faculty of Indigenous Medicine, University of Colombo

On August 27, 2024, the Faculty of Indigenous Medicine (FIM) at the University of Colombo marked a significant milestone with the inauguration of the new premises for the Unit for Research and Development of Natural Products (URDNP). The event was graced by the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Colombo, the Dean of the Faculty, and other esteemed staff members, highlighting the importance of this development in advancing indigenous medical research.

The Institute of Indigenous Medicine, established in 1929 (FIM at present) and located in the historic city of Sri Jayewardenepura at Rajagiriya, has a long-standing commitment to promoting indigenous systems of medicine, particularly Ayurveda. The URDNP is a testament to this commitment, serving as a hub for strategic alliances between academics, government authorities, and the pharmaceutical industry. The Unit aims to lead research and development efforts, focusing on the commercialization of natural products derived from local traditional knowledge, medicinal plants, minerals, and animal products.

The URDNP is set to play a pivotal role in the future of indigenous medicine, driving forward research that aligns with the mission and vision of the FIM to promote a healthy lifestyle through natural products, while preserving the natural environment