HE the ambassador of Japan Mr. ISOMATA Akio visited the faculty of dental sciences on the 27th of August 2025 along with other embassy staff. A reception was held at the boardroom of the faculty. It was conducted by the Dean of the faculty and attended by Heads of departments, academic and non-academic staff members. A group of dental students too attended the function.
The Dean professor B M H S K Banneheka welcomed the guests and briefly touched on the history of the JICA funded dental faculty and hospital which was opened in 1998 and its benefits to dental education and training. The Ambassador spoke about the close relationship between the embassy of Japan and the faculty and also the importance of education for the development of a country. A discussion ensured where many staff expressed their gratitude for the faculty and postgraduate training received at Japanese universities. A dental student Ms Naduni Jayakodi spoke in Japanese language expressing the sentiments of gratitude for the faculty and the JICA sponsored clinical attire and asked the ambassador to express their sentiments to the Japanese public. The vote of thanks was delivered by Prof Sajjiv Ariyasinghe. The ambassador undertook an inspection of the faculty and dental hospital.

Senior professor Sajjiv Ariyasinghe of the Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya received the Japanese ambassador's commendation at the inaugural ceremony of the International week of the University of Peradeniya on the 27th of August 2025 from the ambassador of Japan in Sri Lanka HE ISOMATA Akio. It was conferred for his long standing efforts to improve Japan-Sri Lanka ties specially the Niigata-Peradeniya Sister Link Program and the JICA-FDS collaboration.

The third-year (5th semester) dental students of the Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya, conducted the first session of a community-based screening initiative under the supervision of Prof. Dileep De Silva (Chair Prof.), Dr. Dilini Ratnayake (Lecturer) and Dr. Thilini Hegoda (Registrar/MD Community Dentistry) from the Department of Community Dental Health, as part of the course Population Oral Health.
This initiative focuses on the early detection of oral cancer and oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) among the estate population in Pussellawa, in collaboration with Sogama Plantations. The programme consists of eight screening sessions, strategically planned across the upper, middle, and lower divisions of the plantation to cover both estate workers and their adult family members. The ultimate goal of this teaching–learning–service programme is to screen 400 adults from the community focusing mainly on estate workers. The referred individuals will be followed up at the dental clinic of the Divisional Hospital/ Pussellawa and at the University Dental Hospital, Peradeniya.
Beyond the clinical component, students are also engaged in oral health education activities targeting the wider community, including preschool children and their parents, to promote preventive oral health practices. This initiative will be extended to enhance oral health of high-risk children in the estate community.
This first session marks the beginning of a series of impactful community-based activities that not only enhance students’ learning but also contribute to improving the oral health and wellbeing of the plantation community.

80 students representing 16 schools in the Kandy District participated for the Inaugural Ceremony, the First Round and the Workshop of the Kandy District Inter-School Anatomy Quiz Competition - 2025, which was held on the 19th of August in 2025, at the Faculty of Dental Sciences of University of Peradeniya.
Professor B.M.H.S.K. Banneheka (the Dean of Faculty of Dental Sciences of University of Peradeniya), Professor Dileep De Silva (the Director of the Carrier Guidance Unit of University of Peradeniya) and Dr. Jayampathi Dissanayaka (the President of Anatomy Society, Sri Lanka) addressed the gathering.
First round was conducted as an mcq paper which each team member had to face individually and the total mark was considered for the eligibility for the semi-final round.

A career guidance session was conducted by Professor Dileep De Silva, the Director of the CGU of UOP and motivated them on future career opportunities.
Dr. N.S. Piyarathna on behalf of CROC conducted a programme on oral cancer.
Afternoon was the Workshop. Where the students got the opportunity to visit the anatomy dissection lab, the histology lab, the histology slide preparation demonstration and a visit to the anatomy museum which was an invaluable opportunity for them.
Anatomy Society members, and Academic and Non-academic staff of Department of Basic Sciences of Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya gave an immense support.

Four member group of fourth year undergraduate dental students from Newcastle University, UK successfully completed their elective program in the Departments of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Restorative Dentistry and the Division of Pediatric Dentistry at the Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya from 11.08.2025 to 15.08.2025.
Certificate awarding ceremony for these elective dental students was held on 15.08.2025 with the participation of the trainees, Dean and the Heads of Departments and the Academic staff of the Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya.

The Centre for Research in Oral Cancer (CROC), Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya, conducted a School Awareness Program on Oral Cancer Risk Factors at Sri Dheerananda Maha Vidyalaya, Pilimathalawa on 05th August 2025.

Target Group: Grade 10 male students (100–150 participants)

Resource Persons:

Prof. N. S. Sosysa (Director, CROC)
Dr. Sumudu Medawala (Lecturer, OMF Surgeon – Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya)

Program Highlights:

Introduction to health and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Informative lecture on oral cancer, its risk factors, the importance of early detection, self-mouth examination, and oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs)

An interactive demonstration on performing self-mouth examinations and screening students with oral health concerns.

Other Contributors:

Dr. Dilini Rathnayake – Department of Community Dental Health
Demonstrators from the Oral Medicine Division
Research Assistants from CROC
This initiative aimed to raise awareness among schoolchildren on the importance of preventing oral cancer through healthy habits, early detection, and regular self-checks .
Together, let’s take a step towards a future free of oral cancer

On 05th August 2025, the Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya, was honored to host a highly impactful research seminar by none other than Prof. Ananda Dassanayake from the Department of Epidemiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, USA. The session, titled "How to Conduct Research", was specially curated for our 3rd-year dental undergraduates, igniting both inspiration and insight among the future researchers of our profession.
Organized under the guidance of Dr. Aruna Wimalarathna and Dr. Nadisha Piyarathne, the coordinators of the Undergraduate Research Program, this seminar brought together students, early career academics, and the Dean of the Faculty of Dental Sciences, creating a vibrant academic atmosphere.
Prof. Dassanayake delivered a comprehensive and interactive session covering:

How to choose an impactful and feasible research topic

Principles of sound research design and project implementation

The ethical integration of AI tools in research workflows

Personalized Q&A and feedback on students' proposed research projects

His practical insights, global perspective, and approachable teaching style resonated deeply with all attendees, leaving students empowered and more confident in their research journeys. A heartfelt thank you to Prof. Dassanayake for his invaluable contribution and to all who made this session a remarkable success. Here's to fostering a strong culture of research in dental education!

Emeritus Professor N. A. de S. Amaratunga, BDS,FDSRCS, PhD, DSc, was awarded the prestigious Doctor of Letters (D.Litt.) degree at the 86th General Convocation of the University of Peradeniya held on 24.07.2025.

Prof. Amaratunga, an eminent Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon and former Dean of the Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya has made pioneering contributions in cleft lip and palate surgery and research, earning him a PhD and a DSc previously.
Beyond science, he is also a prolific writer and a public intellectual who has published 3 novels, 2 short story collections and over 200 newspaper articles addressing a wide spectrum of topics including society, culture, politics, religion, and education. His scholarly contributions to Buddhist philosophy include five widely acclaimed publications which are recognized as significant contributions to modern Buddhist literature and comparative philosophy.
This rare and distinguished honor is especially remarkable as he has already been conferred the Doctor of Science (D.Sc.), making him one of the very few to be recognized with the highest academic distinctions in both the sciences and the arts.
The Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya, warmly congratulates Emeritus Professor Amaratunga on this remarkable and rare achievement.

On 28/07/2025, the Department of Prosthetic Dentistry, had the opportunity of hosting a group of undergraduate students from the Department of Biosystems Technology, Faculty of Technological Studies, Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka, for an academic field visit centered on Dental Biomaterials.
The visit aimed to provide the students with a comprehensive understanding of the properties, applications, and recent advancements in dental biomaterials. The programme included guided tours of dental clinics and laboratories, lectures, and informative sessions conducted by faculty members.
The academic interaction facilitated valuable knowledge exchange, offering the visiting students practical insights into the integration of biomaterials in clinical dentistry and dental research. Discussions during the visit reflected a strong interest in interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation.

The Faculty of Dental Sciences proudly celebrated a memorable milestone with the launch of the Dental Faculty Staff Sports Club (DFSSC) a new chapter in promoting health, well-being, and unity among staff members. The event also recognized the spirit of sportsmanship through the Certificate Awarding Ceremony of the Dents Games 2025.
We were deeply honoured by the presence of our Chief Guest, Prof. Shyama Bannahaka, whose unwavering support, guidance, and leadership as the head of the institution played a vital role behind the scenes. His energy has been a driving force in fostering similar initiatives within the faculty.
We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Udari Abeysinghe, the University’s Faculty Sports Representative, for her motivation and support.
The event featured the official unveiling of the DFSSC logo, a vibrant video presentation of our sports journey, and the awarding of certificates to the proud winners and participants of Dents Games 2025.
It was a pleasure to have our Dean, academic and non-academic staff, and all our colleagues join us for this celebration. Special thanks go to the donors of sports goods, the resource persons of the sports injury session, and most importantly, our enthusiastic staff athletes whose dedication brought life to this event.
🙌 Thank you to everyone who made this day a success! Here’s to more teamwork, wellness, and sporting spirit in the years to come!

At the General Convocation 2024 of the University of Peradeniya, Ms. Sithma Wickramasinghe was awarded the Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree, achieving the distinction of being the batch top and the only First Class graduate, with a final semester GPA of 4.00. In recognition of her outstanding achievements, she received nine prestigious gold medals and prizes, including:
• The Peradeniya University Gold Medal (Faculty of Dental Sciences) for Scholastic and Extra Mural Excellence (Awarded for the best all-round student of the faculty)
• Prof. M.A.B. Brito Muthunayagam Gold Medal
• Priya Samaranayake Gold Medal for Excellence in Orthodontics
• Muthukumara Illangovan Gold Medal for Excellence in Orthodontics
• Dr. J.B. Abeykoon Prize for Excellence in Oral Pathology
• Prof. Lakshman Samaranayake Award for Excellence in Oral Medicine and Oral Pathology
• Dr. Ranjan Abeysinghe Prize for Dental Surgery
• Prof. N.A.de.S. Amarathunga Prize for Excellence in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
• University Prize for Academic Excellence

A proud alumna of école Internationale and Gateway College Kandy, Sithma initially pursued the Edexcel International Advanced Levels. With the goal of gaining admission to a state university, she courageously undertook the Sri Lankan Advanced Level Examination in 2017, successfully securing entry to the Faculty of Dental Sciences.
Throughout her academic journey, Sithma demonstrated exceptional talent and commitment both inside and outside the classroom. A former national-level athlete, she excelled in athletics, netball, and badminton during her school years. At university, she continued to display her versatility—not only through academic excellence and research, but also in sports and as a compere at faculty events, exemplifying a rare blend of scholastic brilliance, leadership, and creative expression.
Her remarkable journey is a testament to her dedication, resilience, and all-round excellence, setting a powerful example for future dental professionals. The faculty wishes her all the best in her future endeavors.

The Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dental Sciences, in collaboration with the Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, successfully conducted a high-impact Advanced Life Support (ALS) training session.
Organized as part of our in-service training and ongoing quality improvement efforts, this session was designed to equip our healthcare professionals with the critical skills required to respond effectively to life-threatening emergencies. The workshop witnessed excellent participation from consultants, postgraduate trainees, medical officers, nursing staff, support personnel and dental students —not only from the OMF department but also from several other departments within the faculty.
We express our sincere gratitude to Dr. Ashani Rathnayake, Dr. Senani Samarasighe, and their dedicated team from the Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care for their outstanding contribution in facilitating this comprehensive and interactive training session.
The program was a tremendous success, fostering interdepartmental collaboration while enhancing the preparedness and confidence of our clinical teams in managing advanced medical emergencies.
We look forward to continuing such impactful initiatives in the future.

The Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) of Faculty of Dental Sciences successfully hosted a workshop on procurement procedures on July 22, 2025, at the Faculty of Dental Sciences with the participation of over 40 academic and non-academic staff members. Ms. U.D.P.M. Yasanayake, Accountant – Teaching Hospital Peradeniya and Mr. B.M.I.A.K. Basnayaka, Senior Assistant Bursar – Faculty of Engineering delivered an engaging and informative session, sharing their valuable insights and expertise.

The workshop covered key topics such as,
1. Basic knowledge on budget preparation and relevant approvals
2. TEC report writing in detail
3. Preparation of specification
4. How to use Standard Bidding Documents
5. Approval limits
6. Shopping and direct purchase method with authority limits
7. Correspondence with Foreign supplier

We are proud to share that Emeritus Professor Lakshman Samaranayake has been conferred the prestigious Doctor of Philosophy, Honoris Causa by the Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University for the Academic Year 2024.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Professor Samaranayake on this remarkable achievement and wish him continued success in all his future endeavours.

We are proud to announce the arrival of a state-of-the-art surgical microscope to the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery — a significant milestone that will greatly enhance patient care and surgical precision. This vital donation marks a turning point in our journey to provide cutting-edge treatment in cancer and microvascular surgery, a field in which our department is internationally recognized for excellence. This incredible gift was made possible by:

Ms. Erica ans Mr. Rohan Weerakoon, longstanding supporters of our department through the Rotary Club and Cancer Care services

Prof. Manjula Attygalla, for facilitating this donation with unwavering commitment

Mr. Mark Thorndyke and the Carl Zeiss New Zealand team, for ensuring the microscope arrived in perfect condition and fully operational

Prof. Parakrama Wijekoon and the Smile Train team, for their critical support in clearing customs

We also extend our deepest gratitude to the leadership of the University of Peradeniya — the Vice Chancellor, Deputy Vice Chancellor, and Dean of the Faculty of Dental Sciences — and to our technical staff, whose dedication behind the scenes brought this initiative to life.
This microscope replaces an outdated system that had long challenged our surgical team. Despite these limitations, our surgeons — led by pioneers — delivered exceptional care under trying conditions. Their resilience and innovation continue to inspire the next generation.
Every time this microscope is used, it will serve as a living tribute to the generosity of those who made this possible, touching lives, healing patients, and pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve.

Dr. N.S. Piyarathna has been appointed as the member of the Technical Advisory Committee on Prevention and Control of Oral Cancer(TACOC) which is organized by the National cancer control programme.

The Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya, was pleased to host a visit from the Department of Disability Studies, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya. The delegation was led by Dr. Dinushee Atapattu-Bakmeewewa, Head of the Department and specialist in Audiology and Speech and Language Pathology.
The collaborative discussions provided valuable insights into enhancing the role of speech and language therapists in the multidisciplinary care of patients with oral cancer, cleft lip and palate, and other oral and maxillofacial conditions.
The visit also fostered broader interdepartmental dialogue, involving specialties such as Restorative Dentistry, Prosthetic Dentistry, Oral Medicine, Community Dentistry, and Periodontology, with a shared vision for advancing patient care and research through collaborative initiatives.

The Clinical Induction Ceremony for the 2021/2022 batch (4th semester) of the Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya, was successfully held on Friday, 20th June 2025, from 9.00 a.m. onwards at the S. B. Dissanayake Hall (CPC Hall).
The event marked a significant academic milestone for students as they transition into the clinical phase of their dental education.
The ceremony commenced with the arrival of invitees, followed by the lighting of the traditional oil lamp and the university anthem. The Dean of the Faculty, Prof. B.M.H.S.K. Banneheka, delivered the welcome address. The keynote speech was delivered by Prof. M. D. Lamawansa, Professor in Surgery and Former Vice Chancellor of the University of Peradeniya, inspiring the students with words of encouragement and professional insight. A symbolic highlight of the programme was the reading of the oath by a batch representative, signifying the students’ commitment to ethical clinical practice.
The event also featured a summary of the ongoing collaboration between JICA and FDS, presented by Prof. Sajjiv Ariyasinghe, followed by a speech by the Chief Representative of JICA Sri Lanka, Mr. Kuronuma Kenji. His address underscored the strong academic partnership and support extended by JICA towards dental education and training.
Further remarks were delivered by the Prof. Terrance Madhujith, Vice Chancellor of the University of Peradeniya, highlighting the university’s commitment to academic excellence and international collaboration.
Special acknowledgements by An appreciation speech in Japanese by Ms. Naduni Jayakody, representing the student body and the Vote of Thanks delivered by Prof. A.K.S. Arambawatta, Coordinator of the Undergraduate Unit.
We were also honored by the presence of Ms. Ide Yuri, Senior Representative, Education Section – JICA Sri Lanka and Ms. Christeen, representing JICA. This thoughtful gesture underscores JICA’s continued dedication to supporting the academic and professional journey of future dental surgeons, while further strengthening the longstanding collaboration between JICA and the Faculty of Dental Sciences.
This memorable event reflected the Faculty's ongoing dedication to fostering global partnerships and shaping the next generation of competent and compassionate dental professionals.

The Faculty of Dental Sciences actively participated in the COMHealth Fest 2025 – National Community Health Festival, held on 7th June at Viharamahadevi Park, Colombo 07. Themed "Live Healthy Happy Life", the event was organized by the College of Community Physicians of Sri Lanka and featured a health walk and a public exhibition.

Third- and fourth-year dental students took part in both the health walk and the exhibition, collaborating with the College of Community Dentistry of Sri Lanka. The students engaged the public in raising awareness on basic oral hygiene practices and common treatment methods. A key highlight was a street drama performed by the students to creatively educate the public on the importance of oral health and themed ''හොඳට නරකට දෙකට කටමය". Dr. Uthpala Gunasekara , a registrar in Community Dentistry also supported the students' performance by taking part in a supportive role.
The Faculty's participation was coordinated by Prof. Dileep De Silva, Dr. Dilini Ratnayake, and Dr. Thilini Hegoda, reflecting the Faculty's commitment to community engagement and health promotion.

In celebration of World Environment Day 2025, the Faculty of Dental Sciences at the University of Peradeniya united under the meaningful theme, “Green Gift for a Greener Tomorrow.”
We were deeply honored to receive a generous donation from one of our distinguished alumni, Dr. Joseph Moin of the 1976 batch, who gifted waste bins valued at over one million rupees to the Faculty. This thoughtful contribution was made as an expression of gratitude to his alma mater and to the people of Sri Lanka, in appreciation of the free education he received.
Proper waste segregation is a cornerstone of effective waste management. These newly donated bins will play a crucial role in promoting responsible waste separation and disposal, contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable environment within the Faculty.
We also extend our heartfelt thanks to the Bank of Ceylon, Peradeniya Branch, for generously sponsoring the printing of bin stickers—an essential component in ensuring the success of this initiative.
The event was graced by the presence of Professor Ranjith Pallegama, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Peradeniya; Professor Shyama Banneheka, Dean of the Faculty of Dental Sciences; and Mr. Ranjith Jayatilaka, Senior Manager of BOC Peradeniya Branch.
This impactful initiative was organized by the Green Team of the Faculty of Dental Sciences, with the enthusiastic support and participation of both staff and students.
Together, let’s work towards a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future!

A three-member delegation from the Faculty of Dentistry and the Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata University, Japan, visited the Faculty of Dental Sciences (FDS), University of Peradeniya, on the 22nd and 23rd of May 2025. The delegation comprised:

Prof. Kenji Izumi – Professor, Division of Biomimetics
Dr. Keichiro Okamoto – Associate Professor, Division of Physiology
Dr. Masaru Kaku – Associate Professor, Division of Bio Prosthodontics

On the 23rd of May, the delegation met with the Vice Chancellor of the University of Peradeniya to explore opportunities for further strengthening the sister link between the two institutions, with a particular focus on enhancing collaboration between the respective dental faculties. A similar discussion was held between the visiting team and the academic staff of the Faculty of Dental Sciences.

In addition to these meetings, the three visiting academics conducted a series of mini-lectures for dental students, contributing to academic enrichment and promoting international academic exchange.

The Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya, had the privilege of welcoming the 1975 batch of Dental Surgeons on 20th May 2025, as they celebrated the remarkable milestone of 50 years since entering the university.
A total of 27 members from the batch, currently residing both in Sri Lanka and overseas, participated in the event. To mark this special occasion, the group generously donated several items including a laptop computer and a multimedia projector, aimed at enhancing the learning experience of current dental students.
The event was graced by the Dean, Heads of Departments, and several senior academics. The visiting alumni toured the Faculty and the University Dental Hospital, expressing their joy at being back on familiar grounds and their appreciation of the growth and progress their alma mater has achieved over the years.
We are deeply grateful to the 1975 batch for their continued support and contribution towards the advancement of dental education at Peradeniya. Their visit was a celebration of shared memories, professional camaraderie, and enduring commitment to the future of dentistry.

The Dental Faculty Students' Union, in collaboration with RDHS Mannar, organized an oral health camp in Murunkan on the 26th of April 2025. This initiative was held in memory of our late student, Thivin Saahithiyan, with the heartfelt purpose of serving the Murunkan community.
The camp offered oral hygiene education, free dental screenings, basic restorations and simple extractions. We’re grateful for the warm response from the community and proud to have made a small difference in promoting better oral health.
We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of this meaningful event.

The College of Dentistry and Stomatology in Sri Lanka (CDSSL) held its 38th Annual Scientific Sessions on the 5th and 6th of April 2025 at Waters Edge, Colombo, under the capable leadership of its President, Dr. Gishan Edirisinghe.
The inauguration ceremony, held on the 5th of April, was graced by Prof. Vajira Dissanayake, President of the Sri Lanka Medical Council and Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, as the Chief Guest. The Guest of Honour was Prof. D.Y.D. Samarawickrama, Professor Emeritus at Queen Mary University of London. Dr. Dhanushka Leuke Bandara served as the Chairperson of the Scientific Sessions.
During the inauguration, Prof. B.M.H.S.K. Banneheka was conferred the prestigious title of Fellow of the College of Dentistry and Stomatology in Sri Lanka (FCDSSL) in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the profession and commitment to maintaining high standards in dental practice and education.
A highlight of the event was the delivery of the 6th Sunil Fernando Memorial Oration by Prof. H.R.D. Peiris from the Department of Basic Sciences. His oration, titled “Dental Anthropology – A Vital Tool in Human Evolution, Forensic Sciences, and Clinical Dentistry,” offered insightful perspectives into the interdisciplinary value of dental science.
Dr. Dilini Ratnayake of the Department of Community Dental Health was awarded the certificate and cash prize for the Best Oral Presentation during the free paper sessions.
The Annual General Meeting, held on the 6th of April, concluded with the election of Dr. Dhanushka Leuke Bandara as the President of the CDSSL for the term 2025/2026.

A Guest lecture organized by the Students Welfare and Advisory Committee on "University Examination Rules and Regulations" was held on 8th April 2025, at the Bambaradeniya Auditorium with in-person and virtual participation from both the dental undergraduates and academic staff! The session was delivered by Prof C Beneragama in a highly interactive and engaging manner, ensuring everyone gained a clear understanding of the important guidelines. A big thank you to the Prof Beneragama for making this informative discussion!

For the second consecutive year, on April 7, 2025, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) donated clinical attire to students beginning their clinical training at the Faculty of Dental Sciences (FDS), University of Peradeniya.
This thoughtful gesture underscores JICA’s continued dedication to supporting the academic and professional journey of future dental surgeons, while further strengthening the longstanding collaboration between JICA and the Faculty of Dental Sciences.
Since 1996, the partnership between the Faculty and JICA has remained steadfast and impactful. Over the years, JICA has extended invaluable support across numerous domains, playing a key role in the academic, clinical, and infrastructural advancement of both the Faculty and the Dental Teaching Hospital. Through initiatives such as capacity building, equipment donations, training programs, and technical assistance, JICA has significantly contributed to elevating the quality of dental education, research, and patient care.
The staff and students of the Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya, extend their heartfelt gratitude to JICA Sri Lanka and the people of Japan for their unwavering support over the past 29 years.

On March 26, 2025, a special event was held to celebrate World Oral Health Day, emphasizing the vital connections between oral health and overall well-being. This year’s theme, "A Happy Mouth is a Happy Mind," highlighted the impact of oral health on both physical and mental well-being.
The event was conducted under the subtheme "Strong Minds, Healthy Lives: Say NO to Tobacco and Alcohol," targeting a group of first-year undergraduates from the University of Peradeniya and students from the Sri Lanka Institute of Advanced Technology Education, Kandy. The session featured insightful guest lectures by Prof. Ruwan Jayasinghe (Department of Oral Medicine and Periodontology), Dr. Sumudu Medawela (Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery), and Dr. Asanka Bulathwaththa (Department of Psychology). Additionally, third-year dental undergraduates performed an engaging educational drama, followed by an interactive Q&A session led by fourth-year dental students.
Organized by the Division of Community Dentistry on behalf of the Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya, the event was made possible with financial support from the Sri Lanka Dental Association, to whom we extend our sincere gratitude. We also would like to extend our sincere thanks to the Heads of Department of Nursing, Department of Sociology, Director, and the staff of the Sri Lanka Institute of Advanced Technology Education, Kandy.

On the invitation of the Faculty of Dental Sciences, the Career Guidance Unit successfully conducted a Self-Assessment Session for first-year dental undergraduates on 19th March 2025 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The session was conducted by Mr. S. A. Suchinthana Dasun, Career Counsellor at CGU, and focused on helping students gain insights into their personalities, strengths, and future career directions.
We extend our sincere thanks to the Faculty for the collaboration and look forward to continuing our support in shaping confident, self-aware professionals.

The 23/24 batch of the Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya, presented "Crescenda 2025", an evening filled with vibrant performances, creativity, and cultural brilliance, on March 18, 2025, at the Bambaradeniya Auditorium.
The event was honored by the presence of Prof. R.W. Pallegama, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Peradeniya, as the Chief Guest. Also gracing the occasion were Prof. Shyama Banneheka, Dean of the Faculty; Prof. B.G.T.L. Nandasena, Chairperson of the Students’ Welfare & Advisory Committee (SWAC); Prof Sumedha Jayathilaka, the Proctor/UoP; and H.N.S. Soysa, the Deputy Proctor/FDS, along with the academic and non-academic staff members. A special appreciation goes to Ms. Dulshika Senanayake, Ms. Monika Jayasekara, and Ms. Yasanya Wickramarachchi of the English Language Teaching Unit, whose invaluable support in guiding and coaching the students helped make the event a grand success. Their dedication played a crucial role in refining performances and ensuring an unforgettable experience for all.
The event successfully brought together talent, culture, and unity, creating unforgettable memories for all attendees. Congratulations to the 23/24 batch for organizing such a remarkable evening!

"Theatrica '25" open category drama competition, organized by Gateway College, Kandy was held at the college Auditorium on the 11th of February 2025. In the preliminary round, interested parties were asked to submit a 10 minute RAW video of any scene from a play.
The entry from the Faculty of Dental Sciences, Through Her Eyes, which won the award for the Best Drama at the DRAMSOC Drama Competition, 2024, was selected along with two other plays for the final round. At the finals, the awards for the Best Promising Actor and the Best Actress were won by Dayanjith Premalal and Dahami Bandara respectively.

On Thursday, 20th February 2025, the 2017/2018 Batch of Dental Undergraduates organized a function of Gratitude & Glory – A heartfelt appreciation by the 2017/2018 Batch to express their deepest appreciation to the dedicated faculty members who have guided, inspired, and supported them throughout their journey.
As the Dean and staff of the Faculty of Dental Sciences, we extend our warmest wishes to these future dental professionals for a bright and successful career ahead. May they continue to shine and make a difference in the field of dentistry!

The Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya, successfully conducted the Career Guidance Programme for the 2017/2018 Batch of Dental Students on Thursday, 20th February 2025. This initiative aimed to provide valuable insights into career pathways and professional development opportunities for future dental professionals. The programme featured an esteemed panel of speakers who provided valuable insights into various career pathways and professional development opportunities.
The programme commenced with welcome and opening remarks by Prof. Shyama Banneheka, Dean of the Faculty. Prof. Vajira H. W. Dissanayake, SLMC President and Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, discussed the internship process and SLMC registration. Dr. Chandana Gajanayake, Deputy Director General of Dental Services at the Ministry of Health, elaborated on career opportunities within the Ministry of Health. Prof. Narada Warnasuriya, Emeritus Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, addressed the significance of ethics and professionalism in daily medical practice. Surgeon Commander Dr. Ashani Rathnakeerthi, Consultant in Health and Medical Administration at Naval Headquarters, highlighted career opportunities in the Sri Lanka Tri-Forces, while Dr. M. Uthayakumar, Director and Chief Dentist at Global Dental Care, shared insights on establishing a career in private practice.
The session also covered career development and higher education pathways, presented by Prof. Dileep De Silva, Director of the Career Guidance Unit at the University of Peradeniya. The event concluded with the Vote of Thanks delivered by Prof. B.G.T.L. Nandasena, Chairperson of the Students’ Welfare & Advisory Committee (SWAC). This programme provided an invaluable platform for future dental professionals to explore diverse career avenues, ensuring they are well-equipped for their professional journeys.

We are pleased to announce the promotions of two esteemed faculty members; Prof. AKS Arambawatta has been appointed as Senior Professor in Dental Anatomy and Prof. K.S.N. Ariyasinghe has been appointed as Senior Professor in Physiology. Congratulations to both professors on their well-deserved promotions!

We extend our congratulations to Prof. RD Jayasinghe on his appointment as the Director of the Staff Development Center, University of Peradeniya, for a three-year term effective from 6th January 2025. Wishing him success in this new role!

We are thrilled to share the success of the Dental Health Camp held on 29th January 2025 at Bhadrawathi Maha Vidyalaya, Gampola, organized by the Division of Pedodontics, Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya. It was a wonderful opportunity to promote oral health awareness and provide essential dental care to the community. A big thank you to all the volunteers, dental professionals, and participants who made this event a memorable and impactful one! Let’s continue to smile brighter and spread the importance of dental health!

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