March 01, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of Health has initiated measures to enhance the training system for healthcare professionals. The introduction of the National Continuous Professional Development Programme (NCPDP) aims to bring the proficiency of the healthcare workforce to optimal levels, ensuring the delivery of regular, efficient, and quality health services in Sri Lanka.
The NCPDP will be executed by the Education, Training, and Research Division, under the guidance of Deputy Director General of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Samindi Samarakoon. The official launch ceremony took place at the National Blood Transfusion Centre Auditorium in Narahenpita, with Health and Industry Minister Dr. Ramesh Pathirana presiding over the event on the 28th.
With over 150,000 health professionals employed across 268 different categories in Sri Lanka’s health service, the primary objective of the NCPDP is to enhance their professional skills. This strategic training program is expected to contribute significantly to the improvement of patient care services and overall healthcare quality.
During the ceremony, Minister Pathirana awarded certificates to 64 health professionals, including doctors, nurses, and paramedics, who underwent registration and training in the Ministry of Health’s education, training, and research department. The Ministry plans to confer these certificates annually as a recognition of their commitment to continuous professional development.
Minister Pathirana emphasized that the NCPDP is the culmination of long-term efforts by the Health Ministry and aims to align healthcare professionals with international standards. The event witnessed the participation of key figures, including Secretary to the Health Ministry Dr. Palitha Mahipala, Additional Secretary Dr. Sunil De Alwis, Director General of Health Services Dr. Asela Gunawardena, and other high-ranking officials, hospital superintendents, provincial health service directors, specialist doctors, and nurses.
