Faculty of Dental Sciences

University of Peradeniya

Faculty of Dental Sciences

University of Peradeniya

News

Professor Karthikeyan Ramalingam and Professor Monal Yuwanati from the Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology, Saveetha Dental College, Chennai, India visited the Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya and the Dental Teaching Hospital Peradeniya on 14.03.2024 and delivered a guest lecture on Quality of life outcomes among patients with oral cancer. They had also discussed future activities under the existing MoU between Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya and Saveetha Dental College, Chennai, India.

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Dr. Ajay Chhabra, Professor & Head of the Department of Dentistry & Associate Dean Research in the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Kalyani, West Bengal, India visited the Faculty of Dental Sciences.

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Under the VC Lecture Series, a distinguished academic from the university is invited to deliver the aforementioned lecture. Prof Dileep De Silva has been honored with the invitation to deliver the lecture for February 2024.

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Dr. Gayani Nawarathna has received the Best Oral Research Presentation award for the research titled " The effects of L-theanine- caffeine combination on selective attention in sleep-deprived young adults: A double blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study." at the Kandy Society of Medicine, 46th Annual Academic Sessions 2024.

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Prof. Upul Dissanayake, a distinguished scholar, renowned for his leadership as the former Dean of the Faculty of Dental Sciences and former Vice Chancellor of the University of Peradeniya, was conferred with ‘The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon’ by his excellency the Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka, Mizukoshi Hideaki on 9th November 2023.
Prof. Upul Dissanayakes’ efforts culminated in the facilitation of numerous joint research initiatives and partnership MOUs which has been instrumental in strengthening bilateral ties between Sri Lanka and Japan. This esteemed recognition pays tribute to Prof. Dissanayake’s exceptional contributions in fostering academic partnerships between the two countries.
The order of Rising sun is awarded to by His Majesty the Emperor of Japan to foreign nationals who have demonstrated remarkable dedication and commitment in strengthening friendships and cooperation between Japan and respective countries.

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We are delighted to announce that Dr. Jure Pupic–Bakrac has successfully completed an intensive two-month Hands-On Training Programme in Resection and Reconstructive Surgery of Oral Cancer. The program, conducted from October 1, 2023, to November 24, 2023, was aimed at enhancing practical skills and mastering advanced techniques in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
Organized by the Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dental Sciences at the University of Peradeniya, this comprehensive training has enabled Dr. Pupic–Bakrac to deepen his expertise in innovative surgical practices, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to excellence in medical education and patient care.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Jure Pupic–Bakrac on achieving this significant milestone. His dedication is a testament to his professional dedication and skill.

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The spectacular awarding ceremony of Dents Games; “DENTS NIGHT 2023” was held on 16th November 2023 at the CPC hall, Faculty of Dental Sciences. Students, Academic and nonacademic members of the faculty attended the event.
In a highly competitive category, Lahiru Weerasinghe (Men’s category) and Kavindi Abeyrathne (Women’s category) emerged as the Athletes of the Year, displaying unparalleled dedication and skill in sports. Their remarkable journey and commitment to excellence inspired everyone present. 2016/17 batch claimed the Champions title after a season marked by teamwork, strategic brilliance, and unforgettable victories. Their collective effort showcased the true spirit of sportsmanship.
This annual event celebrated outstanding achievements and showcased the pinnacle of athletic prowess of students and faculty members.

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The 25th commemoration of the establishment of the building complex of Faculty of Dental Sciences and Dental Hospital (Teaching) University of Peradeniya, under the Japan International Corporation Agency (JICA) grant aid project was held on 9th November 2023 at the Dental Faculty Premises. The event was graced by the chief guest, His Excellency Mizukoshi Hideaki the Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka, Vice Chancellor University of Peradeniya Prof M.D Lamawanasa and the Chief representative of Japan International Cooperation Agancy (JICA) Sri Lanka office Mr. Tetsuya Yamada. Past deans of the faculty, retired and present academic and non-academic members and students were also invited for this event. Prof Ruwan Jayasinghe, the chairmen of the organizing committee welcomed the gathering. While Prof Sajjiv Ariyasinghe, the secretary organizing committee delivered the vote of thanks.

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Dawn of new hope
The 7 th of October 2023, dawned with new hope for us at the Paedodontic clinic of the Faculty of Dental Sciences in the University of Peradeniya. The inhalation sedation unit was ceremoniously opened and handed over to the faculty on this day.
Hence a long awaited dream of the Head of the Division of Paedodontics, Prof Chandra Herath and a group of enthusiastic clinicians, was actualized into a facility that would enable more comfortable treatment for anxious patients. This day marked a milestone for paediatric dental care in Sri Lanka owing to the fact that here onwards the faculty holds a Unit for Inhalation Sedation at the Dental Hospital ( Teaching) Peradeniya. This was funded by the generous sponsorship from the Rotary Club of Kandy jointly with Rotary Club of Pudukottai. They were further supported by the Rotary Foundation in the USA. The equipment and the infrastructure were valued to be of 8.0 million Sri Lankan Rupees.
The project chairperson was none other than the former Senior lecturer of the faculty , Dr V Vijaykumaran. His endeavors were praised and applauded by both the academic and his fellow rotarians. Many officials from the Rotary club attended this occasion among which were the Chief guest of the ceremony,the District Governor( RI 3220 ) Rtn Jerome Rajendram and the District Rotary Foundation chair Past District Governor Ajith Weerasinghe. The Guest of honor Prof MD Lamawansa , the Vice Chancellor of the University of Peradeniya graced the occasion and motivated the academicians to further embark on their dreams. Number of distinguished invitees were present at the ceremony to celebrate this achievement . The Dean of the Faculty of Dental Sciences, Prof AM Attygalla,the President of the Association for Specialists in Restorative Dentistry , Dr Nilmini Abeygunawardane were among them.
This joyous occasion was followed with a hands on workshop for Registrars of Restorative Dentistry, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Anesthesiology. The workshop and lectures were conducted by Paedodontic specialists who were well versed with the practice of inhalation sedation ,specially for children. The resource personnel were Dr Srinivas Namineni, Dr Sunil Mohammed, and Dr Sreekanth Mallineni, from India. The day concluded a success for all the participants and trainees.
Thus there lies hope for the future of dental care for children in our country as the Division of Paedodontics leads the way as the sole provider of comprehensive care for children amidst numerous hardships and challenges,under the guidance of the only Paedodontic specialist of Sri Lanka.

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We are happy to announce a remarkable contribution to the Faculty of Dental Sciences by one of our alumni, Dr. Nasar Abdul Wadood, Founder of Biodent Pvt Ltd., Dehiwala 10350.
Dr. Wadood has generously donated a state-of-the-art 3D printer, resin curing unit, and a range of essential accessories to the Faculty of Dental Sciences for the development of digital dental unit. He further offered to provide technical support for the unit in the future. ... ...

The Faculty of Dental Sciences, UoP, aims to recognize excellence in research by awarding certificates to academic staff commending their contribution to research. This year 2 senior academics and 2 early career academics were selected by application.
Tier 1: Prof RD Jayasinghe, Prof RM Jayasinghe
Tier 2: Dr WBMCRD Weerasekara, Dr NS Piyaratne

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The Clinical Induction Ceremony for the talented 4th-semester batch of dental students (2019/2020) took place on Monday, September 18th, 2023, at the prestigious S B Dissanayake Hall of the Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya.
Dear Students, congratulations on this significant milestone! As you embark on your clinical training journey, we encourage you to uphold every word of the oath you've taken. May you excel and evolve into exemplary dental professionals who continually strive for excellence in your careers

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The 25th commemoration of the establishment of the building complex of Faculty of Dental Sciences and Dental Hospital (Teaching) University of Peradeniya, under the Japan International Corporation Agency (JICA) grant aid project was held on 9th November 2023 at the Dental Faculty Premises. The event was graced by the chief guest, His Excellency Mizukoshi Hideaki the Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka, Vice Chancellor University of Peradeniya Prof M.D Lamawanasa and the Chief representative of Japan International Cooperation Agancy (JICA) Sri Lanka office Mr. Tetsuya Yamada. Past deans of the faculty, retired and present academic and non-academic members and students were also invited for this event. Prof Ruwan Jayasinghe, the chairmen of the organizing committee welcomed the gathering. While Prof Sajjiv Ariyasinghe, the secretary organizing committee delivered the vote of thanks.

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The 2nd Peradeniya University Research Excellence Showcase was held on 29th August 2023 at the Joint Research and Demonstration Centre for Water Technology, University of Peradeniya. The main purpose of this event was to showcase novel and cutting-edge research and locally developed solutions for national needs. Additionally, the top-tier researchers of the university were recognized. The Prof. Lakshman Samaranayake Award recipients and the Tier 4* researchers, based on the transparent research performance scheme stipulated in UGC Circular 05/2018, were presented at the award ceremony. Prof BSMS Siriwardena, Professor in Oral Pathology from Faculty of Dental Sciences was one of the award recipients. Prof. Lakshman Samaranayake was present to give away the certificates and cash prizes. The Vice-Chancellor and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor awarded plaques and certificates to Tier 4* researchers.

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Workshop organized by the Dental E-Learning Unit (DELU), Faculty of Dental Sciences on "Enhancing Teaching & Learning through Technology" was successfully conducted at the E-Lab on 5th September 2023. DELU wishes to greatly appreciate the contributions made by Dr. Isuru Nawinne, Senior Lecturer, Department of Computer Engineering, University of Peradeniya as the resource person for the event.

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"Two Sri Lankan-born scientists at the University of Hong Kong have been ranked amongst China’s top microbiologists.”
As per the statistics gathered by “Research.com”, Prof. Lakshman Samaranayake has been ranked 11th, out of 43,737 scientists analyzed by the national scientometric analytic firm.
Prof. Lakshman Samaranayake is a world renowned scientist for his clinical microbiological work. He is a proud product of the Faculty and currently holds a honorary professorship at the Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya.
more details: https://www.adaderana.lk/.../two-sri-lankan-born...

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Thirty academics majority from the Faculty of Dental Sciences and rest from Faculty of Medicine and Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Peradeniya successfully completed the Research Methodology Workshop held on 11th, 13th, 18th and 20th of July 2023. Participants also had the unique opportunity of initiating project proposals and systematic reviews under the guidance of Prof. Dasanayake, which will continue via online till the work is completed.

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Dental Students Research Symposium, STURESY 2023 on the theme “Pioneering Innovations by Young Minds Shaping a Brighter Present, Future, and Beyond” was held on 12 th  August 2023 at Prof. K. Bambaradeniya Auditorium. Prof M.D Lamawansa, the Vice Chancellor, University of Peradeniya graced the event as the chief guest. Two keynote speeches on “Planning Research for Better Results” by Prof. W.M.T Madhujith, Deputy Vice Chancellor of University of Peradeniya and “Commercialization of University based Research and Innovations” by Dr. B.R Fernando of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, brought color to the event. The technical sessions consisted of 13 oral presentations and 14 poster presentations. The highlight of the event was the awards ceremony where the ten best research presentations were awarded gold, silver and bronze medals and commendable certificates.

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The official website of the Smile Train Cleft Centre, Faculty of Dental sciences was launched by the Prof. M.D. Lamawansa Vice Chancellor, University of Peradeniya on 26 th June 2023. Prof. A.M.A.Attygalla/ Dean, Prof. W.M.P.S.K. Wijekoon/ Director, Smile Train Cleft Centre, and Mrs.W.N.A.A.N.N. Padeniya/SAR, Faculty of Dental sciences participated to the occasion.

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The annual Pirith chanting ceremony and the alms giving of the Faculty of Dental Sciences and Dental teaching hospital UoP was held on the 13th and 14th of May 2023 at the premises of Faculty of Dental Sciences, Peradeniya. The event was organized by the Buddhist brotherhood of the Faculty of Dental Sciences and well supported by the academic, nonacademic and the Ministry of Health staff. Overnight pirith chanting on the 13th was followed by alms giving on the 14th. Students of the faculty of Dental Sciences and other faculties, University staff and the Ministry of Health staff participated in the event.

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The welcome ceremony of the new entrants of Faculty of Dental Sciences, UoP was held on 4th May 2023 at the Bambaradeniya Auditorium of the Faculty of Dental Sciences. Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. T. Madhujith was the chief guest. New entrants of the 2021/22 batch and their parents, University officials, Academic and nonacademic staff participated in this event. New entrants were registered and the Faculty mentor programme was also introduced at this occasion.

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Stationery Donation Ceremony of the Smile Train Cleft Centre, Faculty of Dental Sciences was held on 29th April 2023 at the CPC hall. As an event under the 20th Commemoration of Smile Train Cleft Centre, stationary and other necessary school items were distributed among the children with cleft lip and palate who are from needy families.

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An in-service training workshop for dental surgeons was successfully conducted at the Bambaradeniya Memorial Auditorium on the 20th March 2023 organized by the Center for Research in Oral Cancer, Faculty of Dental Sciences. The resource persons for the workshop were Prof Ruwan D Jayasinghe, Prof. Dileep De Silva, Prof. Mudiyanse Rasnayake and Dr. Kalani Hettiarachchi. Important and timely topics such as the use of technology in the early detection of oral cancer and oral potentially malignant disorders, coping with challenges, and how to obtain research allowance for ministry of health employees were covered in this workshop.

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University of Peradeniya signed a memorandum of understanding with GSL institutions, India at the International symposium on Head and neck oncology held on 18th March 2023 in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
A team of staff and students from the GSL institutions, India visited Faculty of Dental sciences, University of Peradeniya on 19th March 2023 to discuss future collaborations in research, development and technical exchange.

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Dr. Nadisha Piyarathne, Department of Basic Sciences, has been appointed as an Honorary Research Fellow in the School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition of the University of Aberdeen, UK from 15th March 2023-14th March 2026.

Prof. RD Jayasinghe has been awarded the prestigious Bibile Memorial Oration 2023 at the Annual Academic Session of the Kandy Society of Medicine held on 10th February 2023.

Prof. W. M Tilakaratna, a former senior academic staff member of the Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya, has been listed among the top 2% of the world scientists – in 2022 by Stanford University.

Mrs. M.R.D.M. Senanayake, Senior Staff Technical Officer, Department of Oral Medicine and Periodontology, was appointed to the Post of Chief Technical Officer with effect from 29.01.2021. Mrs. Senanayake is the first member to be appointed to this post at the Faculty of Dental Sciences.

Prof. RD Jayasinghe has been appointed as the Proctor of the University of Peradeniya for the year 2023.

The welcome ceremony of the new entrants to the Faculty of Dental Sciences was held at the K. Bamberadeniya Auditorium on 03rd January 2023. The event was graced by the Vice Chancellor, Deputy Vice chancellor, and the Deans of the Faculties of University of Peradeniya. Prof.AM Attygalla, Dean Faculty of Dental Sciences welcomed the gathering. Professor MD Lamawansa, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. BMHSK Banneheka, Chairman of the Student Welfare Advisory Committee (SWAC) and Mr. Sachithra Wijeratne President, Dental Faculty Student Union also addressed the gathering. All 2020/21 entrants attended this event with their parents on the occasion.

The motivational speech was done by Dr.Chaminda Weerasiriwardena, Professional counselor and Psychotherapist. Dr. MP Paranagama, representing the Counselling and Career Guidance Committee, did the introduction to the Mentor Programme.

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Hemophilia comprises a group of hereditary disorders caused by the deficiency of one or more clotting factors leading to prolonged clotting time and excessive bleeding which may be fatal.
Hemophilia challenges the skills of dental specialists by inducing bleeding during treatment, which can even be life threatening in certain cases. The dental problems in these individuals poses, difficulty in their dental management, and emotional as well as psychological issues .

But with proper care and precautions,it is possible to treat these patients successfully .
A comprehensive dental treatment session for haemophilia patients registered in the haemorphilia management centre , Teaching Hospital Peradeniya was carried out at the Dental Hospital (teaching) Peradeniya , under the supervision of Consultant Haematologist Prof Dhammika Dissanayake, Consultant Oral and Maxillofacial surgeon Prof Parakrama Wijekoon and Prof KM Wijerathna, consultant in restorative dentistry of comprehensive oral care unit at the faculty of dental sciences on 21st December 2022.

Factor V111 necessary for the treatment was donated by world haemorphilia association while Ten dental surgeons ,a senior registrar in haematology and nursing officers treated about 40 haemophilia patients.

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Prof. Vajira Weerasinghe from the Faculty of Medicine conducted a workshop on Construction and Quality Assessment of MCQs in Examinations on 19.12.2022 organized by the IQAC.

A team of the Heads of Moscow Clinics, Russia (Moscow Metropolitan Governance Yury Luzhkow University) visited the Faculty of Dental Sciences, on 02.12.2022 in a mission to educate themselves on the Health Care system in Sri Lanka. The team visited different clinics in the Dental Hospital and the Deans Office of the Faculty of Dental Sciences. The visit would strengthen the health-related co-operation between Sri Lanka and Russian universities.

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Perusall is an online social learning platform, designed to ensure every student is engaged with course material by creating social interactions between students that are embedded directly inside of course content. A workshop organized by the Dental E-Learning Unit (DELU) on "Maximizing flipped learning using PERUSALL" was held on 22nd November 2022 for the academic members. The resource person for the workshop was Prof. R.G. Ragel, Professor in Computer Engineering, Head/Department of Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Peradeniya. DELU wishes to appreciate the contributions made by Prof Ragel in introducing this useful tool that could be used effectively as a pedagogical approach.

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