Life style
Life changing advancements of organ donation and transplantation in Sri Lanaka
Dr. Niroshan Seneviratne, Consultant Urologist and Transplant Surgeon at Sri Jayewardenepura General Hospital recently delivered the prestigious SAARC oration at the College of Surgeons. He has been at the forefront of advancing kidney transplantation in the country.
Dr. Seneviratne’s pioneering work includes introducing laparoscopic donor nephrectomy and robotic-assisted surgeries to Sri Lanka. As a co-founder of the Organ Donation and Transplant Foundation, he has been instrumental in raising awareness about organ donation and establishing the National Organ Donor Card program.
His leadership extends beyond national borders, serving as the President of the International Community for Belt & Road Cooperation Alliance on Organ Donation & Transplantation. Dr. Seneviratne’s dedication to advancing transplant surgery and urology in Sri Lanka has not only saved countless lives but also positioned the country as an emerging leader in organ transplantation in the region.
Revolutionizing Kidney Donation and Transplantation: Dr. Niroshan Seneviratne and the transplant team of Sri Jayewardenepura General Hospital lead the Way.
In the realm of organ transplantation, Sri Lanka has made remarkable strides, particularly in kidney transplantation. At the forefront of this medical revolution is the dedicated transplant team at Sri Jayewardenepura General Hospital (SJGH), led by Dr. Niroshan Seneviratne. Their groundbreaking work has become a beacon of hope for those suffering from end-stage renal disease. Today, we delve into the life-changing advancements being made at SJGH, focusing on their pioneering laparoscopic donor nephrectomy program. Successful organ transplantation relies on a dedicated team working with passion, trust, and compassion, united in their mission to save lives.
How serious is the kidney disease problem in Sri Lanka?
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has become a silent epidemic in Sri Lanka, affecting nearly 150,000 people. Imagine a city the size of Galle, with every resident battling this life-threatening condition. Even more alarming, about 20,000 suffer from a mysterious type called CKD of unknown etiology (CKDu). Each year, approximately 3,000 families lose a loved one to CKD-related complications. These staggering numbers underscore the urgent need for effective treatment options, with kidney transplantation offering the best hope for many.
What options are available for patients with end-stage kidney disease in Sri Lanka?
Patients with end-stage renal disease in Sri Lanka have two main options for renal replacement therapy: dialysis (either hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis) and kidney transplantation. While both options are available, kidney transplantation is generally considered the best option for long-term survival and quality of life. However, the availability of transplantation is limited by factors such as donor availability and healthcare resources
How has kidney transplantation progressed in Sri Lanka?
Kidney transplantation in Sri Lanka has shown significant progress since its inception. The first kidney transplant was performed in 1985, and by 2022, the country was performing over 200 transplants annually. Sri Jayawardenapura General Hospital has emerged as a leading centre for transplantation, performing both living donor and deceased donor transplants. The country has also adopted advanced techniques such as laparoscopic donor nephrectomy, which has largely replaced open surgery for kidney removal from living donors
What makes Sri Jayewardenepura General Hospital unique in its approach to kidney transplantation?
Our team at SJGH has emerged as a pioneer in kidney transplantation, particularly in the field of laparoscopic donor nephrectomy. This minimally invasive surgical technique for kidney removal from living donors has revolutionized the transplantation process. We are currently the only centre in Sri Lanka routinely performing this advanced procedure, making it a beacon of hope for patients and donors alike.
Can you explain what laparoscopic donor nephrectomy is and why it’s significant?
Imagine being able to give the gift of life with minimal impact on your own. That’s what laparoscopic donor nephrectomy offers. Unlike traditional open surgery, which requires a large incision, this procedure is performed through several small incisions using specialized instruments and a camera. For donors, this means less pain, quicker recovery, and better cosmetic results. It’s a game-changer that’s making more people consider becoming living donors.
Why is it important to emphasize that the donor is not a patient?
A donor is not just a patient; they become an ambassador to society after the surgery, conveying the message: “I feel good about kidney donation; it’s your chance to save lives.”
The donor does not benefit from the surgical incision; the incision is made for the surgeons to remove the kidney. The larger the patient, the larger the incision required. This is why, in laparoscopic surgery, the incision is smaller. Additionally, the availability of 3D technology enhances the precision of the surgery, minimizing tissue damage to the donor.
It’s crucial to remember that kidney donors are everyday heroes making a selfless decision to save someone else’s life. They’re not sick; they’re choosing to give a part of themselves to help another. By using laparoscopic techniques, we ensure that these generous individuals experience minimal disruption to their lives. The reduced recovery time and decreased pain allow donors to return to their normal activities much sooner, making their act of kindness easier on them and their families.
Dr. Niroshan Seneviratne, Consultant Urologist and Transplant Surgeon at Sri Jayewardenepura General Hospital recently delivered the prestigious SAARC oration at the College of Surgeons. He has been at the forefront of advancing kidney transplantation in the country.
What are some challenges facing organ transplantation in Sri Lanka?
Despite progress, organ transplantation in Sri Lanka faces several challenges. These include limited resources for dialysis (with only 107 dialysis centers and 785 dialysis machines nationwide), a shortage of specialized medical professionals (for example, there are only 36 adult nephrologists in the country), low political commitment and funding for organ donation and transplantation programs, and limited public awareness coupled with cultural resistance to organ donation. These factors collectively hinder the expansion of transplantation services and the increase in donor availability
Why is promoting deceased organ donation particularly important for Sri Lanka’s healthcare?
Sri Lanka, like many low and middle-income countries, is heavily dependent on living donors for organ transplantation. However, this creates ethical dilemmas. Deceased donation offers a way to expand the donor pool without these concerns. By focusing on promoting deceased organ donation, Sri Lanka can address its kidney disease crisis more effectively, reduce healthcare costs, improve patient outcomes, and build a more self-sufficient and ethical organ transplantation system.
How is Sri Lanka trying to increase the number of kidney donors?
We are taking several innovative steps to increase kidney donation. These include expanding the living donor pool by carefully evaluating and accepting medically and surgically complex donors, promoting deceased organ donation through public awareness campaigns, and organizing events like National Organ Donor Day to encourage donor registration. In collaboration with the Ministry of Health, we’ve launched a National Organ Donor Card and created a database of registered donors. A website (www.odtfsrilanka.com) has been developed to share inspiring organ donation stories, aiming to educate and inspire potential donors.
What are the future goals for the transplantation program in Sri Lanka?
The futuristic goals in organ donation include the establishment of a simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplant program, which involves transplanting both a kidney and a pancreas together. This approach benefits kidney transplant patients with long-standing diabetes by helping to ensure their new kidney functions for a much longer time. Additionally, there is a goal to commence multi-organ donation, allowing for the possibility of saving eight lives through the donation of the heart, lungs, liver, pancreas, intestines, and kidneys. It is important to recognize that every citizen has the civic right to become an organ donor. The advancement of robotic transplantation is also a key objective, as it promises to enhance the precision and effectiveness of transplant procedures.
Looking ahead, Sri Lanka should aim to further expand its laparoscopic donor nephrectomy program and increase public awareness about both living and deceased kidney donation. The country will need to enhance collaboration among hospitals to share expertise and resources. Advocating for increased government support and funding for transplantation services will be another key objective. Sri Lanka should continue investing in advanced technologies to improve surgical outcomes. Additionally, the country will need to train more surgeons in laparoscopic techniques, which will increase the availability of this minimally invasive procedure.
The story of laparoscopic donor nephrectomy at Sri Jayewardenepura General Hospital by Dr. Niroshan Seneviratne is one of hope, innovation, and dedication. It represents a significant step forward in Sri Lanka’s fight against chronic kidney disease, offering a lifeline to thousands of patients while respecting the well-being of donors. As SJGH continues to lead the way in this field, it not only transforms individual lives but also sets a new standard for kidney transplantation in Sri Lanka and beyond.
In a grand celebration of unity and tradition, Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo hosted an exclusive and elegant Iftar dinner at the prestigious King’s Court. This remarkable evening, hosted by Nazoomi Azhar, General Manager of Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo, brought together a distinguished gathering of ambassadors, key figures, top corporate executives, and esteemed members of the media.
The event showcased a spectacular array of culinary delights, with a highlight being the masterpieces crafted by renowned Pakistani Chef Riaz Bhatti. His exquisite creations, alongside an extensive selection of traditional and contemporary delicacies of Pakistani dishes, left guests in awe of the lavish spread and exceptional flavors.
Among the standout dishes of the evening were the rich and aromatic Mutton Raghni Josh, the flavorful Mutton Shahi Qorma, and the perfectly spiced Peshawari Beef Chapli Kabab. Guests also delighted in the Lahori Chicken Tikka Boti and the indulgent Chicken Peshawari Karahi, which added a taste of authenticity to the menu. The Iftar spread was further complemented by traditional desserts such as Gulab Jamun, Shahi Tukda, and Ras Malai, providing a sweet ending to the feast.
The atmosphere was one of warmth and hospitality, reflecting the spirit of Ramadan while offering a truly memorable experience. Guests were highly impressed with the impeccable service and the thoughtfully curated menu, making this Iftar dinner a standout occasion in Colombo’s social calendar.
Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo, under the leadership of Nazoomi Azhar, continues to set the benchmark for luxury hospitality, delivering unforgettable experiences through its commitment to excellence.
In the Republic of Turkiye women have been one of the building blocks in shaping Turkiye for centuries. However, especially since the founding of the Republic, Turkiye has been one of the leading countries in the world, especially in terms of the political visibility of women. Women were given the right to vote long before women were given political rights in many democratic and modern countries.
Turkish women are known for their unwavering determination and resilience. They exhibit remarkable dedication and courage in pursuing their goals and challenge injustice. Their hard work and perseverence contribute to their advancement of society. These statements were expressed by the Deputy Chief of Mission of Turkiye M/S Merve Goozde Otlu at the residence of the Turkish Ambassador in Sri Lanka, on the occasion of the International Women’s Day.
This day is also important for Turkish women, who have played a vital role in shaping Turkish society, from the early days of our Republic to the present said the Deputy Chief of Mission. In her speech she also pointed out that the founder of the Republic, Mustafia Kemal Ataturk, has an important place in the hearts of all Turkish people, but his visionary leadership for women’s rights are especially precious for all women of Turkiye.
Some of the guests
She explained “Ataturk strongly believed in women’s equality and emphasized that a modern and progressive society could only be achieved if women had equal opportunities as men’’
“Women were encouraged to participate in all areas of life, including education, work life and politics. One of the most remarkable steps Ataturk took was granting women the right to vote and as early as 1930, women were able to run for office at the local elections and in 1934 women were granted this right long before many other countries (One year after that, there were already 18 women MPs). When we look at Turkish history, we see countless inspiring women who have shaped our country, playing crucial roles achieving many milestones. These women have proved that Turkish women could achieve greatness in any field from science to business, from arts to sports, if given the opportunity, she remarked.
Turkish women have also made a significant contribution to diplomacy, a field often seen as male-dominated, she remarked.
Kanchana Rajapakse from embassy
For decades, Turkish women have been representing our country with strength and determination on the global stage. The first woman diplomat Mrs. Adile Ayda was recruited in 1932, while Ambassador Filiz Dinemen is the first woman Ambassador of Turkiye, assigned to the Hague in 1982.
Women representation has been increasing in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, constituting almost 40% of the Ministry.
It is a personal honour for me to serve in a country like Sri Lanka, which gave the world the first female Prime Minister in history, Sirimavo Bandaranaike, she said with pride.
Her leadership showed that women can take on the highest responsibility and be a driving force not just for women but for the whole society.
The contribution of women in Turkiye in the field of Science and Technology is far reaching. She said in Turkiye, a prominent scientist who worked for NASA, whose research was instrumental in the legendary 1962 Apollo mission. She is Dihlhan Eryunt, was the recipient of the NASA Appolo Achievement Awards she said with pride.
The First Secretary, Imren Kaygisiz said Turkish women who have contributed to the development of the country and thier enduring impact on society who are still continuing to inspire strength,resilience and success of women
The Commercial Counsellor M/s Gamze Erc an also paid tribute to the founder of Modern Republic of Turkiye, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk who gave importance to education of Turkish women and leader believed that development of a nation depends on a strong education foundation.
The evening had all the trappings of glamour followed by high tea.
The Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in sri Lanka hosted the International Women’s Day ceremony at thier residence.
Ambassador of Indonesia Dwi Gustina Tobing invited a large gathering of invitees including the Minister of Women and Child Affairs Saroja Savithri Paulraj who was the Chief Guest. CBL Group Managing Director Sheamalee Wickramasighe, popular musician Umaria Sinhawansa and Stephanie Siriwardena also addressed the gathering. The ambassador looking elegant was busy welcoming the guests at her residence.
An evening of camaraderie, glitz and glamour. The event featured an insightful session aimed to empower women, and served as a tribute to the commitment of women who has contributed immensely. The ambassador in her speech said by celebrating the achievements of women and amplifying their voices, we pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable society, where gender does not hinder opportunity but enriches collective experiences. Here is an excerpt from the ambassador’s speech.
A warm welcome to all of you. It is an honour to host this reception in commemoration of International Women’s Day 2025.
She said ” This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action”, is a powerful call to all of us. It underscores that equality cannot wait, and that all sectors of society must work together to speed up progress in women’s rights and empowerment.”
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- CBL group managing director Sheamalee addressing the gathering
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- Stephani and Umaria
Around the world, we have seen tremendous strides toward gender equality in politics, economics, and social spheres. Women are increasingly taking up leadership roles, contributing to economic growth, and shaping the future of our societies.
In Indonesia, we are proud of the progress we have made in advancing women’s participation. She said
She reiterated that 127 women were elected to parliament, making up 22.1% of the seats—the highest in our post-reform history. However, this is still below our target of 30%, which means there is room for improvement.
Our new cabinet includes 14 women, both as ministers and deputy ministers, demonstrating our commitment to gender-inclusive governance.
Ambassador welcoming Chief Guest Minister of Women and Child Affairs
Beyond politics, women are the backbone of Indonesia’s economy. Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) contribute over 60% to the national GDP, and 64.5% of these businesses are managed by women.
Additionally, Indonesia ranks among the top four countries globally for female business leaders
She pointed out Sri Lanka, too, has made significant strides in women’s empowerment. When I met with Minister Saroja Savithri Paulraj last week, we discussed the progress Sri Lanka has made in increasing women’s representation in politics and the economy. From women entrepreneurs driving economic growth to initiatives supporting women in leadership, Sri Lanka is showing a strong commitment to gender equality.
Many countries have made progress in advancing women’s empowerment, yet, despite this progress, we must recognize that challenges remain. Women still face barriers to equal pay, leadership opportunities, financial inclusion, and social mobility. Gender-based violence, discrimination, and unequal access to resources continue to hinder the advancement of women in many parts of the world.
This is why collaboration is crucial. By sharing experiences, policies, and best practices, we can accelerate meaningful action to bridge the gender gap.
We must continue working together, fostering partnerships that empower women economically and socially. Indonesia is committed to strengthening collaboration with Sri Lanka and other nations to create more opportunities for women, recognizing their immense importance. Invitees were able to enjoy authentic Indonesian delicacies specially curated by the Ambassador herself.
By Zanita Careem
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