NIFS Popham Arboretum opening Ceremony
The NIFS Popham Arboretum at Dambulla was generously gifted to NIFS (then known as IFS) in 1989 by Mr. F.H.(Sam) Popham, a British naval officer. In tribute to the remarkable work of Mr. F.H. Popham, a museum was established at the arboretum as a befitting homage. The Ministry of Environment provided funding for that and several other infrastructure improvement projects at the arboretum, enhancing its facilities and amenities. A simple ceremony was held on July 20th at 3:00 pm at the NIFS Popham Arboretum, Dambulla. The event was attended by several esteemed dignitaries, including Dr. Anil Jasinghe, Secretary environment, Mr. Nihal Ranasinghe, Secretary Education, Prof. Athula Sumathipala, Chairman, NIFS, and Prof. Saluka Kodituwakku, Director, NIFS. A member of the Popham family, Mr. Peter Popham joined in the event from London virtually.
The Board of Governors of NIFS held its 100th meeting at the Popham Arboretum in Dambulla on the same day at 10:30 am.