Gampaha Wickramarachchi University of Indigenous Medicine

Gampaha Wickramarachchi University of Indigenous Medicine logo

Gampaha Wickramarachchi University of Indigenous Medicine (GWUIM) is a distinguished higher education institution in Sri Lanka that specializes in the study and research of Indigenous Medicine. It is located in the town of Yakkala, which is part of the Gampaha District. The university plays a pivotal role in preserving and advancing the knowledge of traditional Sinhalese medicine, which has been a part of Sri Lankan culture for thousands of years.

History

The origins of GWUIM trace back to 1929, when Ayurvedic practitioner Pandit G.P. Wickramarachchi founded the Gampaha Wickramarachchi Ayurveda Vidyalaya with the aim of formalizing the education of traditional medicine in Sri Lanka. Over the decades, this institution evolved, gaining governmental recognition and expanding its academic offerings. In 1982, it was incorporated into the University of Kelaniya as the Institute of Indigenous Medicine. Recognizing its significant contribution to the field and its potential for further growth, it was elevated to university status in 2021, becoming the Gampaha Wickramarachchi University of Indigenous Medicine.

Academics

GWUIM offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various disciplines of Indigenous Medicine. The curriculum is designed to blend traditional knowledge with modern scientific practices, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to practice medicine while preserving the cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. The university's academic programs include Bachelor of Ayurveda Medicine and Surgery (BAMS), Bachelor of Unani Medicine and Surgery (BUMS), and various postgraduate diplomas and degrees in specialized areas of indigenous medicine.

Facilities

The university boasts state-of-the-art facilities to support its academic programs. These include well-equipped laboratories, a library with a vast collection of traditional medicine literature, and herbal gardens that serve as living laboratories for the study of medicinal plants. Additionally, GWUIM operates a teaching hospital, providing students with hands-on clinical experience under the guidance of experienced practitioners.

Research

Research is a core component of GWUIM's mission. The university is actively involved in research projects aimed at exploring the scientific basis of traditional medicine practices, developing new treatments, and documenting the rich biodiversity of Sri Lanka's medicinal plants. This research not only contributes to the global body of medical knowledge but also helps in the conservation of traditional practices and the sustainable use of medicinal plants.

Community Engagement

GWUIM is deeply committed to serving the community. Through its teaching hospital and outreach programs, the university provides affordable healthcare services to the public, focusing on the holistic well-being of individuals. It also conducts workshops, seminars, and public lectures to raise awareness about the benefits of indigenous medicine and promote healthy living practices among the wider community.

Conclusion

The Gampaha Wickramarachchi University of Indigenous Medicine stands as a beacon of traditional knowledge and modern scientific inquiry. By nurturing skilled practitioners and researchers, GWUIM is ensuring the preservation and advancement of indigenous medicine for future generations. Its contributions to healthcare, education, and research exemplify the vital role of traditional medicine in contemporary society.