Leishmaniasis component of the following degree programs conducted by the Post Graduate Institute of Medicine, University of Colombo is offered by the Department of Parasitology and the center.
- MD in Medical Parasitology
- MD in Medical Microbiology
- MD in Transfusion Medicine
- Diploma in Medical Microbiology
- Undergraduate MBBS curriculum of University of Colombo
There are many completed and on-going research projects.
- PhD/MPhil/MSc projects
- Short term elective appointments for local and overseas undergraduate and post graduate students
- Short term bench training for other local graduate, post graduate researchers.
Free of charge training is provided for the Public Health & Medical Laboratory Technicians (PHLTs & MLTs) of Ministry of Health Care & Nutrition in Sri Lanka. This program is conducted with a view to facilitate laboratory diagnosis and to enhance the case detection rate in the clinical setting.
Candidates are trained for sample processing, microscopic diagnosis and other techniques on leishmaniasis. Follow up assistance is given for the trainees during the period of establishment of hospital laboratories. Cross examination of smears and technical advice are provided on request.
Four batches have been trained up to date. Almost all the major hospitals in Sri Lanka have established and conducts microscopic diagnosis of leishmaniasis following completion of this course.
First International Colloquium on Leishmaniasis in Sri Lanka (2009)
An international colloquium was convened by the Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo. Stakeholders from various research, higher education and health related institutions and international experts on leishmaniasis participated. The colloquium addressed many issues in leishmaniasis in Sri Lanka and the National Action Plan for leishmaniasis control was also drawn up during the colloquium.
Second International Colloquium
“An Update on Clinical Epidemiology & Diagnostic Aspects of Leishmaniasis in Sri Lanka” was convened by the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo during 26th – 29th March 2013. Many experts in leishmaniasis participated. National Action Plan was revised and updated.
Staff orientation for new laboratory staff
New researchers complete an orientation program before they commence their research activities. This includes handling equipment, preparation and handling parasite culture media, working inside the sterile culture suite, ordering consumables, maintaining records and routine department and institutional procedures that include application for leave, organizing field visits etc.
Staff orientation for new technical staff
New technical officers are given one to one attention and training on sample collection, processing and routine diagnostic procedures during the initial period of their career.
Journal clubs, research meetings
Research students, academic staff and scientists participate in regular journal clubs conducted by the department of Parasitology.