In a powerful demonstration of global partnership and post-conflict renewal, The University of Manchester (UoM), in collaboration with the Manchester Foundation Trust (MFT), has marked a major milestone in its Global South engagement strategy through a suite of innovative oral health initiatives in northern Sri Lanka.

Spearheaded by Professor Raj Ariyaratnam from the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, this ambitious programme is driving lasting change in healthcare education and delivery—while fostering deeper international collaboration.

Healing Through Education: CPD Programme in Jaffna

What began as a small educational initiative in the aftermath of Sri Lanka’s civil conflict has evolved into a cornerstone of dental professional development in the Jaffna region. Launched in 2011, the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme is now in its 15th year, having trained and mentored dozens of local professionals—including five newly qualified oral health consultants.

During the most recent visit, Professor Ariyaratnam delivered a guest lecture and formally proposed the establishment of a landmark Institute of Oral Health Care Sciences (IOHCS) in northern Sri Lanka—an idea that has garnered enthusiastic local support.

New Horizons: The Institute of Oral Health Care Sciences

Set to launch later this year, the IOHCS will serve as a centre for education, research, and global cooperation in oral health. Backed by The University of Manchester, the University of Jaffna, and the Northern Health Services, the institute will work to improve regional oral health outcomes and provide a hub for future academic exchanges.

Planning meetings held in March brought together university leaders, health officials, and diaspora representatives. The institute will be funded in part by Sri Lankan dental professionals abroad, reflecting a strong commitment from the wider global community.

Inspiring the Next Generation: Community Outreach in Jaffna

St Johns College

As part of the visit, Professor Ariyaratnam returned to his alma mater, St. John’s College in Jaffna, to deliver a motivational lecture titled “Redefining Education for the 21st Century – Transforming Student Learning.” The college, which celebrated its 200th anniversary last year, has launched a new initiative focused on social responsibility and community engagement.

Thanks to support from the Faculty, the school now awards annual Social Responsibility Awards to students who demonstrate exceptional civic leadership. Each winner receives a medal and certificate signed by the university, further strengthening the bond between institutions.

Building Academic Bridges: Partnership with University of Peradeniya

In Kandy, the University of Peradeniya—Sri Lanka’s premier dental education institution—is joining forces with Manchester to offer new opportunities for students and faculty alike. A draft Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was completed during the March visit, paving the way for joint research, shared curricula, and student exchanges.

On-campus accommodation for Manchester visitors was reviewed and approved, and the first cohort of alumni dentists will begin their placements this summer. Undergraduate exchanges are set to begin with the next academic year, giving students a rare chance to engage in hands-on learning abroad.

A Vision for Global Health Equity

Together, these projects underscore the power of long-term academic partnerships and socially conscious global engagement. By combining educational innovation with a focus on community impact, the Faculty is helping to rebuild a region still recovering from conflict—while offering its own students a unique window into global health challenges and solutions.

“This work isn’t just about training dentists,” said Professor Ariyaratnam. “It’s about healing communities, building trust, and showing how education can truly transform lives—locally and globally.”

As the initiatives continue to grow, the University’s commitment to global health, social justice, and transformative education stands stronger than ever.

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