President Ranil Wickremesinghe highlighted the allocation of the South Asian Institute of Technology and Medicine (SAITM) to Moratuwa University, aiming to create more medical education institutions.
He expressed hope that the government would support the establishment of additional medical colleges and universities, ensuring that Sri Lanka could produce more doctors.
He reiterated the need for Sri Lanka to excel in healthcare to attract medical tourists and bolster the nation’s healthcare sector. He emphasised the necessity of restructuring healthcare policies and increasing the number of medical colleges to address the shortage of doctors.
The president further acknowledged the challenges posed by the shortage of doctors and stressed the importance of developing an effective solution.
He announced plans to establish the first nongovernment medical faculty in Sri Lanka, a significant step towards expanding medical education opportunities.
President Wickremesinghe was speaking at the commemoration of Joseph Fraser Ninewells Hospital’s centennial anniversary at the hospital premises, underscoring the crucial importance of maintaining Sri Lankan healthcare facilities at international standards and positioning the nation as a premier hub for medical tourism.
The President emphasised the critical need to address the shortage of medical professionals in Sri Lanka.
He shared insights into the government’s plans to bolster medical education in the country, ensuring a sustainable supply of doctors.
President Wickremesinghe paid tribute to the legacy of Joseph Fraser, a Scottish planter who played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s tea industry during its formative years. Notably, Fraser and his wife chose to leave behind a lasting memorial to Sri Lanka, the Joseph Fraser Ninewells.
Hospital, showcasing their commitment to the country’s development.
