The National Institute of Health Sciences (NIHS), Kalutara, the premier national training institution for public health in Sri Lanka, on Wednesday (01) officially inaugurated its historic Centenary Congress, commemorating 100 years of dedicated service to the nation (1926–2026).

The grand celebration, held at the NIHS Auditorium in Kalutara, marked a century of pioneering achievements that have contributed significantly to strengthening Sri Lanka’s public health system.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister described the Institute’s centenary as a landmark moment in Sri Lanka’s public health journey, recognizing a century of service in developing the country’s public health workforce and advancing preventive healthcare.

Highlighting Sri Lanka’s achievements in maternal and child health, immunization, disease prevention, and equitable healthcare, the Prime Minister noted that these successes have been built upon strong public health institutions and the dedication of healthcare professionals.

She emphasized that as the health sector faces emerging challenges, including an ageing population, non-communicable diseases, climate-related health risks, and technological transformation, greater focus must be placed on education, research, innovation, and the development of a skilled and adaptable health workforce.

Reaffirming the Government’s commitment to building a resilient and people-centred health system, the Prime Minister stated that investments in modern health infrastructure, primary healthcare, digital technologies, and continuous professional development will remain national priorities.

The Prime Minister congratulated the National Institute of Health Sciences on reaching its centenary milestone and expressed confidence that the Congress would contribute valuable insights towards the future advancement of Sri Lanka’s public health sector.

The Centenary Congress programme included addresses by the Minister of Health and Mass Media, Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, the Secretary to the Ministry of Health and Mass Media,the Director General of Health Services,and the Director of the National Institute of Health Sciences.

A keynote address on the theme “NIHS, Past, Present and Future” was delivered by Dr. Thushara Fernando. Highlighting the global significance of the Institute, the event also featured a special address by the WHO Regional Representative and a formal message delivered on behalf of the Director-General of the World Health Organization, acknowledging the Institute’s long-standing international collaboration and its contribution to sharing Sri Lanka’s globally recognized health achievements with the world.

The programme also featured the launch of the “NIHS – 100 Years” commemorative coffee table book and the unveiling of a commemorative postage stamp.

The event was attended by the Minister of Health and Mass Media, Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, Secretary to the Ministry of Health and Mass Media, Dr. Anil Jasinghe,Member of Parliament Dr. Nihal Abeysinghe,the Director of the National Institute of Health Sciences, representatives of the World Health Organization and partner organizations, academics,health professionals, alumni, and invited guests.

[Prime Minister’s Media Division]