SLCOMM Inaugurates its 8th Annual Academic Sessions

The 8th Annual Academic Sessions of the Sri Lanka College of Military Medicine (SLCOMM) commenced with an inaugural ceremony at the Galadari Hotel Colombo on 14th February 2025 under the theme "Advancing Military Healthcare Excellence Innovation and Global Impact." The event serves as a platform to enhance military-civil cooperation and foster greater interaction among experts in military medicine.

Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retired) WWV, RWP and two Bars, RSP and Bar, USP, MMSc (Strat Stu-China), MSc (Def Stu) in Mgt, MSc (Def & Strat Stu), fndu (China), psc, Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest while Dr. Narendra Pinto, Consultant Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgeon, attended as the Guest of Honour at the invitation of SLCOMM.

Commander of the Army Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo RSP ctf-ndu psc IG, Commander of the Navy and Commander of the Air Force were also present at the occasion as distinguished guests. Special invitees in Indian delegation, Brigadier Tathagatha Chatterjee along with Dr. Jyotsna Punj, and Dr. Ravinder Kumar Pandey from All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) also participated in the ceremony, highlighting the international scope of the discussions.

The formal proceedings began with the recital of the National Anthem; a two-minute silence in honour of Fallen War Heroes and the lighting of the traditional oil lamp.

Brigadier W.G.R.P Peiris, President of SLCOMM and Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, delivered the inaugural address outlining the key objectives of the three-day sessions and reflecting on the establishment of the College in 2016. This was followed by an address from the Guest of Honour who emphasised the importance of advancements in military medicine. The Chief Guest also extended his congratulations to SLCOMM for its achievements and shared his thoughts on the significance of the event.

More than 350 professionals and participants from various medical and dental institutions have registered for the sessions. Organisers anticipate productive discussions and strengthened collaborations across multiple fields of expertise throughout the event.

The Sri Lanka College of Military Medicine (SLCOMM) is a professional body comprising medical and dental doctors from the Sri Lanka Army, Navy and Air Force.

The Annual Academic Sessions of SLCOMM continue to serve as a vital forum for advancing knowledge fostering innovation and enhancing global contributions to military healthcare.

(Photo Courtesy: Ministry of Defence)