The Presidential Induction and 50th Anniversary Celebration of the College of Pathologists of Sri Lanka was held on 12th March 2025 at the Monarch Imperial Hotel, Sri Jayewardenepura, Kotte. The College, established in 1975 celebrates its 50th anniversary this year under the theme of commemorating the past, excelling in the present and aspiring for the future.

The event commenced with a ceremonial procession following the arrival of the Chief Guest Professor Neelakanthi Ratnatunga, Emeritus Professor, University of Peradeniya and the Guest Speaker, Professor Chandu de Silva, Emeritus Professor, University of Colombo.

 

 

 

Professor Priyani Amarathunga was inducted as the new president by the outgoing president Dr Priyanka Abeygunasekera.  Professor Amarathunga's presidential address under the theme of "Reflecting on the present, to prepare for tomorrow", outlined the significant evolution of histopathology from autopsy-based analysis to the examination of minimally invasive biopsies facilitated by advanced clinical technologies. In preparation for these rapid advancements in histopathology, particularly in the context of cancer diagnosis and individualized treatment, Professor Amarathunga emphasized the critical need for enhanced multidisciplinary collaboration, rigorous adherence to standardized specimen handling protocols, and a proactive integration of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence within the field.

 

 

The Chief Guest, Professor Neelakanthi Ratnatunga, in her address highlighted the challenges in practicing pathology in the current era. Professor Chandu de Silva delivered the 50th anniversary lecture on "The final diagnosis: A 50-year Odyssey" highlighting the important events in the 50 years' journey of the College of Pathologists of Sri Lanka.

 

Three distinguished pathologists Prof. Roshitha Nilmini Waduge, Dr. Shanika Fernandopulle, Professor Dulani Beneragama were awarded College Fellowships considering their exceptional contributions to the field of pathology in Sri Lanka and to the College.

The Dean Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo Professor Vidya Jothi Vajira Dissanayake, past presidents of the College of Pathologists of Sri Lanka, other distinguished invitees from the University of Colombo, Ministry of Health and Professional Colleges and Associations were among the invitees.