Molecular Diagnostics Workshop Successfully Conducted
The College of Pathologists of Sri Lanka (CPSL), in collaboration with the National Cancer Institute of Sri Lanka (NCISL), successfully conducted the Molecular Diagnostics Workshop on 15 May 2026 at the National Cancer Institute of Sri Lanka.
The workshop brought together consultant histopathologists, consultant oncologists, and postgraduate trainees in histopathology and oncology to enhance their knowledge and practical skills in molecular diagnostics. The programme focused on the principles and applications of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and next-generation sequencing (NGS) in modern diagnostic pathology and oncology.
This programme has been accredited by the Education, Training & Research Unit of Ministry of Health of Sri Lanka and awarded 06 CPD points for the participants.
The programme commenced with a welcome and introductory address by Dr. Mangala Bopagoda, Consultant Histopathologist and President of the College of Pathologists of Sri Lanka, who highlighted the growing importance of molecular diagnostics in precision medicine and the College's commitment to strengthening capacity in this rapidly evolving field.
The morning scientific sessions were conducted by an eminent panel of resource persons:
Dr. Priyangie Nirosha Amarabandu, Consultant Histopathologist, National Cancer Institute of Sri Lanka and Genomic Laboratory, NCISL, delivering her lecture on “Effects of improper processing on molecular testing – Not to spoil the soup”.
Dr. W. C. Vimukthini Peiris, Consultant Clinical Oncologist, District General Hospital, Nuwara Eliya, delivering her lecture on “Genetic testing in adult oncology: Implications for diagnosis, prognosis and targeted therapy”.
Dr. Prabhani Shiromala Maddumarachchi, Consultant in Paediatric and Adolescent Oncology, Head of the Paediatric Blood and Marrow Transplant Unit, National Cancer Institute of Sri Lanka.
The workshop was attended by 72 participants, including consultant histopathologists, consultant oncologists, and postgraduate trainees in histopathology and oncology, reflecting the growing interest in molecular diagnostics among pathology and oncology professionals.
The afternoon programme consisted of an interactive hands-on training session on PCR and NGS techniques, allowing participants to gain practical exposure to molecular diagnostic workflows. This session was facilitated by:
Dr. Priyangie Amarabandu, Consultant Histopathologist, NCISL
Dr. Suranga Sumithipala, Consultant Virologist, Genomic Laboratory, NCISL
Mr. Asanka Upul Bowatta, Chief Medical Laboratory Technologist, Genomic Laboratory, NCISL
Ms. Shanika Jeewnthi Perera, Medical Laboratory Technologist, Genomic Laboratory, NCISL
An interactive sponsor session and networking opportunity followed, enabling participants to engage with experts and industry representatives while exploring the latest developments in molecular diagnostic technologies.
The College of Pathologists of Sri Lanka expresses its sincere appreciation to the National Cancer Institute of Sri Lanka, all resource persons, facilitators, sponsors, and participants for contributing to the success of this educational programme. The workshop marked another important milestone in the College's continuing efforts to promote excellence in pathology education and support the advancement of molecular diagnostics in Sri Lanka.
