Theme: “Expanding the Horizons for Neurocare in Sri Lanka”
Venue: University of Colombo, Sri Lanka
Dates: 26th and 27th November 2024
The 2nd nEUROcare Conference was successfully held at the University of Colombo with leadership of the conference chair, Prof. Sudath Warnakulasuriya, bringing together a distinguished gathering of healthcare professionals, academics, researchers, and students from Sri Lanka and Europe. This landmark event provided a platform to showcase the advancements and outcomes of the nEUROcare project while addressing the challenges and opportunities in improving care for neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs) in Sri Lanka. Under the theme “Expanding the Horizons for Neurocare in Sri Lanka,” the conference attracted an impressive participation of approximately 500 healthcare professionals and students.
Inauguration Ceremony
The conference commenced with a grand inauguration attended by distinguished dignitaries, including the Prof. H.D. Karunaratne, Vice Chancellor of the University of Colombo. In his opening address, Prof. Karunaratne emphasized the critical role of international collaborations in addressing Sri Lanka’s healthcare challenges. He highlighted that how initiatives like nEUROCare contribute to sustainable solutions for pressing issues such as neurodegenerative disorders.
The occasion was further graced by the Guest of Honor, Prof. Håkan Pihil, Vice Chancellor of Kristianstad University, Sweden highlighting the remarkable results and outcomes achieved and also, he mentioned that project has been an invaluable opportunity for us to grow, learn, and forge critical new relationships, strengthening our future capacity to make meaningful contribution
His Excellency David Gregory Pine, the New Zealand High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, attended the event as the Chief Guest. In his address, he emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing NDD, recognizing the timeliness and relevance of the nEUROCare initiative. He noted that the gathering of researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and caregivers creates a crucial platform for exchanging insights, fostering partnerships, and exploring innovative solutions tailored to the unique challenges of Sri Lanka’s healthcare landscape.
Keynote Speech
The Keynote Speaker, Dr. Barana Millawithana, a renowned expert in elderly medicine from the Ministry of Health, Sri Lanka, delivered a thought-provoking keynote address.
In his speech, Dr. Millawithana covered:
Dr. Millawithana’s address set an inspiring tone for the conference, motivating participants to explore practical and sustainable solutions for improving NDD care.
Additionally, Prof. Martin Persson, Project Coordinator of the nEUROCare project from Kristianstad University, Sweden, delivered an uplifting message. He highlighted the project’s milestones in capacity building and its transformative impact on healthcare education and practice in Sri Lanka.
Continuous Professional Development Sessions
The conference featured sessions dedicated to Continuous Professional Development (CPD), aligning with the core themes of the nEUROcare master’s curriculum. Local and international speakers shared their expertise and experiences, offering valuable insights and actionable strategies to improve neurodegenerative care in Sri Lanka.
Scenario Based Discussion
A Scenario-Based Discussion was conducted by three consultants representing the Geriatric Medical Association, facilitated by Ms. Chandrani Hearth, a lecturer from the Faculty of Nursing, University of Colombo. The session focused on two practical scenarios related to neurodegenerative disorders. These scenarios highlighted patient characteristics, associated problems, treatment options, management strategies, and nursing care. The discussion provided valuable insights to the audience on how patients with neurodegenerative disorders are effectively managed within the healthcare system.
Dr.Barana Millawithana
Consultant Physician in General Internal Medicine Base Hospital Wathupitiwala, Sri Lanka
Dr. Malsha Gunathilake
Consultant Old Age Psychiatrist
Colombo South Teaching Hospital
Dr.Sitira Senanayake
Consultant Geriatrician National Hospital Sri Lanka
Mrs. HMCM Herath
Head/Lecturer Department of Clinical Nursing Faculty of Nursing University of Colombo, Sri Lank
Panel Discussions
Panel discussions brought together Sri Lankan and European experts to deliberate on the need for enhanced healthcare approaches for NDD care in Sri Lanka. These discussions emphasized the significance of collaborative solutions in addressing the unique challenges faced by the country’s healthcare system.
Prof. Zvezdan Pirtošek
University of Ljubljana, Slovenia
Prof. Steve Smith
Triskelion, Norway
Dr. F.H.D. Shehan Silva
Senior Lecturer/ Consultant Physician Department of Medicine Faculty of Medical Sciences University of Sri Jayewardenepura
Prof. SSP Warnakulasuriya
Dean, Faculty of Nursing Sri Lankan Coordinator of the Neurocare Project University of Colombo, Sri Lanka
Research Presentations
A dynamic oral and poster presentation session showcased innovative research conducted by students and professionals from Sri Lankan and European universities. This interactive session fostered meaningful discussions, networking opportunities, and strengthened collaborations among participants.
Recognitions and Acknowledgments
In his closing remarks, Prof. Martin Persson, the Project Coordinator, extended heartfelt congratulations to the Sri Lankan partner universities for their unwavering commitment to sustaining the nEUROcare master’s programs and related activities. He commended the consortium’s collective efforts and emphasized the importance of continued collaboration to ensure the project’s long-term success. As a gesture of appreciation for his outstanding contribution to the success of the nEUROcare project, Prof. Martin Persson was presented with a token of appreciation by the conference Chair, Prof. Sudath Warnakulasuriya.
In his closing remarks, Prof. Sudath Warnakulasuriya acknowledged the contributions of some nEUROcare team members who had to resign from the project due to personal reasons. Despite these challenges, he expressed positivity regarding the successful achievement of the project’s final outcomes, highlighting the dedication and resilience of the team in overcoming obstacles.
Conclusion
The 2nd nEUROCare Conference was a resounding success, underscoring the transformative potential of international collaboration in tackling critical healthcare challenges. The event celebrated the remarkable achievements of the nEUROcare project while laying a strong foundation for sustained improvements in NDD care in Sri Lanka.
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