The Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS) of the University of Kelaniya proudly launched three pioneering Master’s degree programs related to Health-Master of Medical Statistics, Master of Health Service Management, and Master of Health Economics-under the Board of Study in Multidisciplinary Studies.

This landmark initiative marks a significant milestone in advancing multidisciplinary education in Sri Lanka, particularly within the healthcare sector. The inauguration ceremony was held in grand style on 23rd October 2025 at Waters Edge Hotel, bringing together distinguished academics, policymakers, and professionals. The event commenced with a welcome address by Snr. Prof. Priyani Paranagama, Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies, highlighted the faculty’s dedication to promoting academic excellence and fostering innovative programs that address both national and global needs.
Snr. Prof. Nilanthi de Silva, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya, addressed the gathering as the Special Guest, emphasizing the transformative potential of these programs in equipping professionals with the knowledge and leadership skills needed to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of Sri Lanka’s healthcare sector. The Guest of Honour, Snr. Prof. Kapila Seneviratne, former Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies and current Chairman of the University Grants Commission of Sri Lanka, commended the launch of these programs. He expressed his continued support and appreciation for the University’s efforts, noting his long-standing involvement in the approval and realization of these initiatives that have strengthened postgraduate education in the health sector.

The Chief Guest, Emeritus Prof. Chrishantha Abeysena, Honourable Minister of Science and Technology, was recognized for his foundational role as the Founder Chairman of the Board of Study in Multidisciplinary Studies during his tenure at the University. He expressed his delight at seeing the fruition of these programs, which bridge the disciplines of health sciences, statistics, management, and economics to address contemporary healthcare challenges. Dr. Anil Jasinghe, Secretary to the Ministry of Health and Mass Media, delivered the keynote address, underscoring the strategic importance of integrating data-driven decision-making, effective management practices, and health economics insights into national healthcare development.

The event was attended by learning partners from the healthcare sector, including medical professionals, academics, and administrators, along with the distinguished staff of the University, adding further prestige to the occasion. The newly introduced Master’s programs are designed to equip professionals with cutting-edge knowledge and applied skills in medical statistics, health service management, and health economics—ultimately empowering them to enhance the quality, efficiency, and sustainability of healthcare delivery in Sri Lanka.

Concluding the ceremony, Prof. Anura Karunarathna, Chairman of the Board of Study in Multidisciplinary Studies, delivered the Vote of Thanks. He extended his sincere gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor, the Faculty of Graduate Studies, distinguished guests, and all contributors who made the launch of these landmark programs a success. He further appreciated the dedication of the academic and administrative teams who worked tirelessly to develop the curricula and obtain necessary approvals, emphasizing that their collective effort reflects the University’s commitment to academic innovation and national
development.

With this initiative, the University of Kelaniya reaffirms its position as a pioneer in postgraduate education, setting a benchmark for multidisciplinary studies and demonstrating its unwavering commitment to strengthening Sri Lanka’s healthcare and management education landscape.