International Conference on Health Sciences 2019
The 13th Annual Academic Sessions, conducted as the International Conference on Health Sciences (ICHS) 2019, marked a significant milestone in the Faculty’s commitment to advancing multidisciplinary health research and scholarly exchange. The conference featured a rich scientific programme that brought together academics, clinicians, researchers, and international experts to address contemporary challenges in health sciences.
The faculty oration was delivered by Prof. Bawantha Gamage, Professor in Surgery, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, on “Modified Enhanced Recovery after Surgery for colorectal surgery: an outcome of novel experience in Sri Lanka”. The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Pubudu Pathiraja, Consultant Gynaecological Oncological Surgeon from the Oxford University Hospital, UK, focusing on patient- and family-centred approaches to the management of gynaecological cancers.
The conference programme included a pre-congress workshop on “From research to publication: navigating barriers and pitfalls”, conducted by Dr. Anita Jain, Clinical Editor of the British Medical Journal (BMJ). This highly interactive session addressed essential aspects of research methodology, reporting standards, publication ethics, journal selection, and the peer-review process.
Three major scientific symposia were held during the conference. The first symposium explored facets of healthcare, with particular emphasis on rational drug use, healthcare costs, and research dissemination. The second symposium addressed holistic approaches to health and safety, including road safety, trauma imaging, and post-traumatic stress disorders. The final symposium focused on patient care in the next generation, covering advances in surgery, geriatric care, cardiothoracic surgery, and fertility management.
The conference showcased a strong research output, with 36 oral presentations and 96 poster presentations, reflecting the breadth and depth of ongoing research within the Faculty and its collaborating institutions. ICHS 2019 successfully reinforced the Faculty’s role as a national and international platform for high-quality research, interdisciplinary dialogue, and innovation in health sciences.
