The Minister of Health and Media, Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, announced that the Ministry of Health will continue to prioritize specialized diploma courses and training programs to enhance the professional standards and expertise of the nation’s health workforce.

The Minister made these remarks while addressing a certificate awarding ceremony for the Advanced Diploma in Cardiac Technology (2025). The event, held at the new UCFM Tower auditorium of the Faculty of Medicine, Colombo, celebrated the successful completion of training for 351 ECG Technicians from government hospitals across Sri Lanka.

Strengthening Cardiac Care Services

The one-year academic program was organized by the Education, Training, and Research Division of the Ministry of Health. During his speech, Dr. Jayatissa emphasized the critical role these professionals play in the free health service.

  • Role of ECG Technicians: These professionals are vital in patient care, conducting essential diagnostic tests including:

    • Standard and Exercise ECG

    • Holter Monitoring and Tilt Table Tests

    • Catheterization and Pacemaker support

    • Pharmacological Stress Tests and Ambulatory BP Monitoring.

  • Workforce Strength: Currently, nearly 500 ECG Technicians are serving in the national health system.

Future Vision: From Diploma to Degree

Minister Jayatissa highlighted that equipping health workers with international-standard knowledge directly translates to more efficient and excellent care for patients. He expressed his intention to evolve this Advanced Diploma into a full Degree program in the future, ensuring that professionals in this field can reach the pinnacle of their expertise.

"Strengthening our professionals with modern knowledge and a positive professional attitude is essential for the future of our health service. This reflects their leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to the public." — Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa

Dignitaries in Attendance

The ceremony was attended by several high-ranking health officials and specialists, including:

  • Dr. Suranga Dolamulla – Deputy Director General (Education, Training, and Research)

  • Dr. Samantha Ranasinghe – (Training)

  • Mrs. Nilupa Subasinghe – Principal of the School of ECG Technicians

  • Consultant Cardiologists, Cardiac Electrophysiologists, and family members of the diplomates.

The Minister concluded by expressing his gratitude to the specialists, academic staff, and clinical supervisors who dedicated their time to mentoring the 2025 batch.