Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science was officially opened on 27 th of March 1980. Professor S.T.Fernando was the first Dean of this faculty. At present Dr.Madura S. Munasinghe works as the Dean of the faculty. VMAS consists of five departments; Department of Basic Veterinary Science, Veterinary Pathobiology, Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Veterinary Public Health and Pharmacology, Farm Animal and Production Health. The only Higher Education Institution which trains Veterinary Surgeons is the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science. The degree of Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc) is offered by the faculty and it is recognized by the Veterinary Council of Sri Lanka. Approximately hundred undergraduates are enrolled for the degree programme each year. Faculty’s mission and vision are as follows.

The Vision 

The vision of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science is to be a national centre of learning and research in veterinary medicine and animal production and to produce graduates of high standard who could confidently manage the health-care and production of farm, companion, captive, wild, aquatic and other animal species which are useful to mankind and to bring solace, happiness and profitable income to their owners.

Mission 

The mission of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science is to impart a sound knowledge of veterinary medicine and animal production techniques to students in order to produce competent veterinarians and scientists of high calibre, who would always strive to increase the productivity of livestock and improve the quality of life and welfare of farm, companion, aquatic, captive, wild and other animals by providing relief from suffering through healing and prevention of diseases. The mission also includes provision of i) training required to protect the community from zoonotic diseases, ii) facilities for continuous improvement of professional skills and knowledge, iii) research studies leading to higher degrees and iv) participation in policy formulation and implementation of activities on animal production, health and welfare at regional and national levels in order to secure a high standard of living for the community.

Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science provides many services including Veterinary Teaching Hospital services, Veterinary Teaching Farm, Mobile Veterinary Service, Centre for Aquatic Animal Disease Diagnosis and Research, Rabies. Diagnosis Unit, Food Safety and Quality Assurance Laboratory and Veterinary Business Centre.