In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, collaboration and innovation are crucial for the advancement of medical education and research. Enhancing partnerships between the Gomel State Medical University (GSMU), and University of Sri Jayewardenepura (USJ), the Vice-Rector of International Affairs at the Gomel State Medical University, Professor Svetlana A. Anashkina, accompanied by Dr. Lasantha Amarakoon visited University of Sri Jayewardenepura on 04th September 2023.
The warm welcome was extended to the delegates by Senior Prof. M.M. Pathmalal, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Prof. Aloka Pathirana, the Dean of the Faculty of Medical Sciences, Prof. Shalindra Ranasinghe, coordinator of international affairs of Faculty of Medical Sciences and Dr. Ruwini Dharmawardene, Director of the International Affairs Division.
This discussion aimed to strengthen the ties between our institutions, leverage our unique strengths, and foster innovation in medical education. By building bridges in medical education through collaborative efforts, Gomel State Medical University and the University of Sri Jayewardenepura can play a vital role in shaping the future of healthcare, advancing medical research, and preparing students to meet the complex challenges of the healthcare industry with excellence and compassion.
Taking the initiative in guiding the discussion, Senior Prof. M.M.Pathmalal, the Vice-Chancellor of USJ provided a brief introduction to the university. Discussions also revolved around identifying future avenues for partnership. This includes elective programs, collaborative research projects, and student exchange programs. The Vice-Rector of International Affairs at the Gomel State Medical University, Professor Svetlana A. Anashkina expressed a keen interest in elective programs offered by USJ and was impressed by the quality of offerings and facilities available. Prof. Aloka Pathirana and Prof. Shalindra Ranasinghe, representing the Medical Faculty at USJ, provided detailed information about fee-levying elective programs, underlining the opportunities available for international students.
The meeting outlined a strategic initiative to strengthen the partnership between Gomel State Medical University and the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, two esteemed institutions with complementary strengths in medical education and research. This collaboration aims to foster a dynamic exchange of knowledge, resources, and expertise, ultimately enhancing the quality of medical education and research at both institutions. To achieve these objectives, the following collaborative initiatives were proposed,
- Faculty Exchange Programs: Establish short-term and long-term faculty exchange programs, allowing educators to share their expertise, engage in joint research, and visit at each other’s institutions
- Joint Research activities: Create interdisciplinary research projects focused on key healthcare areas, where researchers from both institutions can collaborate on innovative projects. The opportunities to take part in academic conferences and publications on research findings.
- Student Exchange Programs: Develop opportunities for medical students to participate in exchange programs, gaining exposure to diverse healthcare systems, cultures, and clinical experiences.
The visit served as an important platform for the exchange of knowledge and ideas, setting the stage for future collaborations. The warm reception and fruitful discussions during the visit reaffirmed the mutual commitment of both institutions to academic excellence and the advancement of medical education and research.
