The MD Preparatory Course 2025 was successfully conducted over a period of three months, commencing on 17th May 2025. The course was designed to prepare candidates for the common selection examination in MD Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Restorative Dentistry, and Orthodontics. It was organized by the College of Dentistry and Stomatology of Sri Lanka and combined both online lectures and physical practical classes to provide a comprehensive learning experience.
The practical sessions were conducted at the Department of Pathology, Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya. These included OSCE discussions and SEQ discussions in Pathology, OSPE and question discussions in Dental Anatomy, as well as OSPE sessions in General Anatomy and Neuroanatomy. The sessions were scheduled on Saturdays and Sundays, with the morning programme running from 9.00 am to 12.00 noon and the afternoon programme from 1.00 pm to 4.00 pm.
A total of 65 participants registered for the course. Of these, 64 registered for the full course, while one participant registered for the practical sessions only. The course structure and delivery ensured that participants had the opportunity to revise theoretical concepts, engage in interactive discussions, and strengthen their practical knowledge in key subject areas.
The President and the Council of the College of Dentistry and Stomatology of Sri Lanka wish to acknowledge the valuable contributions of all the resource persons. Academics from the Faculty of Dental Sciences and the Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, as well as consultants in the relevant specialties, conducted the sessions with dedication. The supportive staff of the Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya, also provided essential assistance throughout the course.
A special note of appreciation is extended to Mr. Dhammika Ihalagedara for his technical support, which was vital in ensuring the smooth conduct of the online lectures. The course was successfully coordinated by Dr. Randilini Angammana on behalf of the Council of the College of Dentistry and Stomatology of Sri Lanka.
The MD Preparatory Course 2025 provided a valuable academic platform for aspiring postgraduate trainees and contributed significantly to their preparation for the common selection examination.

Crafting Your Dental Career
An Essential Guide to Postgraduate Studies

The workshop titled “Crafting Your Dental Career: An Essential Guide to Postgraduate Studies” was successfully held on 30th August 2025 at the Family Health Bureau, Colombo. The event was specifically designed for post-intern dental surgeons and was attended by 70 participants.

The programme featured four distinguished experts who addressed key areas relevant to postgraduate education and professional development in dentistry. Dr. Sonali Ranathunga, Chairperson of the Board of Study in Dental Surgery, Postgraduate Institute of Medicine (PGIM), delivered a presentation on Postgraduate Training Opportunities through the Postgraduate Institute of Medicine. Professor Shyama Banneheka, Dean of the Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Peradeniya, spoke on Exploring Research Pathways: MPhil, PhD & Beyond, highlighting the value of academic advancement and research in dentistry.

Further, Dr. Nilantha Ratnayake, Consultant in Community Dentistry, Institute of Oral Health, Maharagama, conducted a session on Upholding Ethical Standards in Clinical Dental Practice and Professional Bodies and Associations: Building Your Network, emphasizing the importance of ethics and professional engagement. The final session was delivered by Dr. Fahim Jameel, representing the College of General Dental Practitioners, who spoke on Postgraduate Education for General Dental Practitioners: Necessity, Opportunity & Transformation.

The workshop offered participants an invaluable opportunity to gain insights into postgraduate training pathways, research opportunities, ethics, and career advancement. It also provided a platform for young dental surgeons to interact with senior professionals and clarify their queries regarding academic and professional development.

The President and Council of the College of Dentistry and Stomatology of Sri Lanka wish to extend their appreciation to all the speakers for their contributions, and to the participants for their enthusiastic engagement, which made the workshop a resounding success.

Tips for Effective Portfolio Writing – Reflective Practice for Learning

A workshop on “Tips for Effective Portfolio Writing: Reflective Practice for Learning” was successfully conducted by Professor Pandula Siribaddana, Professor in Medical Education, Postgraduate Institute of Medicine, University of Colombo, on Saturday, 2nd August 2025. The event took place at the Sri Lanka Dental Association (SLDA) Auditorium and was attended by 29 participants, including postgraduate trainees and trainers representing various disciplines in dentistry.

The workshop provided valuable insights into the importance of reflective practice in postgraduate learning and professional development. Professor Siribaddana emphasized practical approaches to portfolio writing, encouraging participants to integrate reflective methods into their academic and clinical training. The interactive sessions allowed participants to engage in discussions and clarify strategies to enhance the effectiveness of their own portfolios.

The President and the Council of the College of Dentistry and Stomatology of Sri Lanka extend their sincere gratitude to Professor Siribaddana for his invaluable contribution in conducting this workshop. His expertise and guidance enriched the learning experience of all participants, making this event a highly productive and meaningful academic engagement.