AQUA 2025: Aquatic & Environmental Exhibition, a landmark environmental education and conservation event, organized by the Aquatic Club of the Department of Zoology and Environmental Management at the University of Kelaniya was successfully held on the 8^th and 9^th of January 2025 at the Faculty of Science premises (A7), University of Kelaniya.

Under the theme "Water, Life & Legacy: Nurturing Blue Planet," AQUA 2025 served as a dynamic platform to highlight the significance of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.  The inauguration ceremony of the exhibition was held on the 8^th of January 2025 at the A 8 Auditorium.

The event was graced by Senior Professor Nilanthi de Silva, Vice-chancellor of the University of Kelaniya, as the chief guest. Emeritus Professor M. J. S. Wijerathne, Former Vice-chancellor of the University of Kelaniya, attended as the guest of honour and keynote speaker. His insightful address focused on the Department of Zoology and Environmental Management's substantial contributions to advancing Sri Lankan aquatic sciences, leaving an indelible impression on attendees. Other invited guests of the inauguration ceremony included Senior Prof. Sudath R. D. Kalingamudali, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Acting Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies;  Senior Prof. L. D. Amarasinghe, Head of the Department of Zoology and Environmental Management; Prof. R. M. C. S. Ratnayake, Head of the Department of Plant and Molecular Biology; Emeritus Prof. Mangalika Hettiarachchi, Department of Zoology and Environmental Management; Senior Lecturer Dr. M. G. I. S. Parakrama, Senior Advisor of Aquatic Club; Senior Lecturer K. M. Sudesh Ruvinda, Senior Treasurer of Aquatic Club; Ms. Chandani Wilson, Director of Bio-Diversity Secretariat, Ministry of Environment; Mr. Thushan Kapurusinghe, President of the Sri Lankan Turtle Conservation Project; and Mr. Kavishka Gamage, President of the Aquatic Club and Chairperson of AQUA 25.

AQUA 2025 sought to foster discourse on the sustainable utilization of aquatic ecosystems and achieve broader conservation goals. Anchored to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 13 (Climate Action), 14 (Life Below Water), and 15 (Life on Land), the exhibition underscored the vital role of aquatic ecosystems in sustaining biodiversity and supporting life on Earth.

The success of the exhibition was made possible through the contributions of various government and private sector organizations. It attracted a wide range of participants, including academics, researchers, policymakers, undergraduates, school students, and the general public. By providing an inclusive platform, AQUA 2025 encouraged stakeholders from diverse sectors to engage in meaningful discussions and build collaborative partnerships. Sponsors, media partners, and industrial professionals played a crucial role in amplifying the reach and impact of the event, ensuring that its messages resonated far beyond the university.

As part of AQUA 2025, the University of Kelaniya hosted an illuminating panel discussion named AQUA FORUM 2025 on the 9^th of January 2025, titled "Aquatic Environmental Sustainability and Conservation." Organized by the Aquatic Club, Department of Zoology and Environmental Management, the discussion took place at the A8 Auditorium and addressed pressing global environmental challenges while exploring sustainable solutions.

The panel comprised esteemed experts, including Dr. Shamen Vidanage, Country Representative of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN); Prof. Dewaka Weerakoon from the Department of Zoology and Environmental Science, University of Colombo; and Prof. Erandathie Lokupitiya from the Department of Zoology and Environmental Science, University of Colombo. The discussion revolved around the theme, “Safeguarding Aquatic Biodiversity: Navigating Climate Challenges and Anthropogenic Pressures for a Sustainable Future.” Panelists delved into the indispensable role of aquatic ecosystems in global biodiversity, food security, and ecological balance. The session emphasized innovative conservation practices and policy reforms needed to counteract the impacts of climate change and human-induced pressures. The session highlighted the urgency of collaborative actions aligned with SDGs 13, 14, and 15. It inspired attendees to adopt sustainable practices that balance ecological integrity with development goals.

The panel discussion attracted a diverse audience, including academics, policymakers, students, and environmental advocates. It catalyzed generating actionable solutions and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. By addressing critical issues and presenting innovative strategies, the event further solidified AQUA 2025’s position as a transformative platform for environmental education and conservation.