Student Life | SPOTLIGHTS

There is no doubt that a relaxed-feeling friendly environment increases the efficiency of the learning curve, and participating in extra-curricular activities reduces stress and develops the personality while making an easy-going character. Because of that the Faculty of Medicine has made an extreme consideration in students’ activities. Students are always encouraged to pursue their interests in sports, religious & cultural activities and the performing arts.

The Medical Faculty Students’ Union (MFSU)

Medical Faculty Students’ Union of Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo (MFSU) is the sole official representative body of the students of Faculty of Medicine Colombo, established under 1978 No. 16 Act of the Parliament of Sri Lanka, functioning under the University of Colombo Student Union By-Law No.1 of 1989. The MFSU consists of 13 legally elected student representatives including a President, Vice President, Secretary, Junior Treasurer, Editor and 8 Committee Members. MFSU represents the student community at the Faculty Board meetings.

The current MFSU was established under a fresh policy declaration on 2011/2012 Academic Year. Adhering to this, over the years MFSU has succeeded in maintaining a fully democratic, transparent and student-centered representative body, effectively functioning for the benefit of the students as well as for national needs. The MFSU ensures political neutrality at all times and prevents influence of external political parties from taking root in the faculty. It also has notably stood against ragging, creating a pleasant environment for all the students to learn without discrimination. MFSU has been the cornerstone for establishing the culture of harmonious coexistence of all batches with mutual understanding and respect, at Faculty of Medicine Colombo. MFSU holds regular committee meetings where matters are discussed extensively and decisions are taken democratically, and in times of need holds General Body Meetings where all students can directly participate in discussions.

The MFSU stands for the needs and rights of students in the present as well as the future. It strives to protect the “right to free education” of all citizens, and does not hesitate to lead and fight when it is threatened. For that purpose, all students proudly stand with the MFSU with rational reasoning and enthusiasm. In addition, MFSU coalesced with Medical Students’ Welfare Society (MSWS) function as a single body in maintaining various educational and recreational facilities at the faculty for the wellbeing of the students, carrying out several annual projects and also coordinating the extra-curricular activities of all societies and batches at the faculty. MFSU represents the students of Faculty of Medicine Colombo at national level organizations and alliances as required, ensuring political neutrality and protecting the rights of students as a priority.

 

The Medical Students Welfare Society (MSWS)

The Medical Students Welfare Society is the society which mainly deals with the welfare of the medical students. It functions along with the MFSU and carries out its activities. It runs a photocopy service, a stationery shop and a lending library which has a large collection of novels. It also maintains the faculty gymnasium, music room, study areas, junior common room and ladies’ room. The MSWS also represents the students in the canteen and library committees of the faculty. It conducts many other activities throughout the year.

 

Physiotherapy Students’ Welfare Society (PSWS)

The Physiotherapy Students’ Welfare Society (PSWS), guided by the motto “Many Hands One Heart,” is committed to safeguarding the rights and privileges of its members while promoting academic, artistic, religious, and sports activities. The society arranges scholarships for students facing financial difficulties, provides aid for medical treatment both locally and internationally, and offers support during family emergencies such as bereavements. It also organizes entertainment and leisure activities to help students manage the stress of academic life.

In addition to supporting its members, the PSWS actively engages with the public by organizing events, workshops, and outreach programs that benefit the wider community. These initiatives not only allow students to apply their skills and knowledge in real-world settings but also foster social responsibility and professional growth.

Through teamwork, compassion, and a shared sense of purpose, the PSWS strengthens the bonds among physiotherapy students and makes a positive impact both within the university and beyond. The PSWS consists of 16 elected student representatives including a President, Vice President, Secretary, Junior Treasurer, Editor and Committee Members.

Contacts :

  • Chandima Lakshan (President)
  • Isanka Lahiru (Secretary)

PSWS LogoPraana - Blood Donation Campaign

Physiotherapy FreshersSip Abhimana - 2024Colombo Physiotherapy Week - 2024

In terms of Sections 115 and 116 of the Universities Act No.16 of 1978, as amended the recognition of Student Societies and other Associations of students in the University shall be made with the approval of the Council. During the year under review, twenty-six (26) such Students’ Societies and other Associations used functioning in the University.

Aesthetic Circle

Aesthetic Circle LogoEstablished in January 2019, the Aesthetic Circle serves as a creative platform under the MFSU/MSWS, aimed at nurturing artistic talents among medical students.

Representing students from all batches, the circle organizes events that allow individuals to showcase their creativity, share ideas, and engage with peers in meaningful artistic expression. It plays a vital role in promoting emotional well-being and cultural appreciation within the faculty.

 

 

Contact:  Siluni Nayanananda (Aesthetic Circle Coordinator / MSWS Vice President)

Medical Faculty Research Community (MFRC)

  • Launched in November 2020, the Medical Faculty Research Community (MFRC) was established by the MFSU and MSWS to foster a research-oriented culture among students and to capitalize on the abundant research opportunities within the faculty.
  • MFRC offers a dynamic platform for research-minded students to collaborate, innovate, and engage with the wider scientific community, both locally and internationally. Projects are coordinated under the guidance of the MFRC Committee Member, with ongoing initiatives spanning various disciplines.

Learn more at: MFRC

Coordinator : Manith Siriwardana (MSWS Educational Secretary)

MFC Echo

MFC Echo is the official media unit functioning as one of the subcommittees under the Medical Faculty Students’ Union (MFSU) and the Medical Students’ Welfare Society (MSWS) of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo. As the creative and technical arm of the student body, MFC Echo plays a pivotal role in documenting and showcasing the vibrant academic, cultural, and extracurricular life of the faculty.

  • The unit specializes in:
    • Photography
    • Videography
    • Live streaming
    • Sound mixing and balancing
    • Digital art and graphic designing
  • MFC Echo also manages a highly active YouTube channel with over 8,300 subscribers, serving as a dynamic platform for sharing faculty events, student initiatives, and educational content with a wider audience.
  • With a team of passionate and talented students, MFC Echo continues to set the standard for excellence in campus media production and digital engagement.
  • Learn more:

Coordinator : Ruwith Randew (MFSU Committee Member)

Medical Faculty Science and Technology Community (MFSTC)

Medical Faculty Science and Technology Community (MFSTC) was set up as a student body under the Medical Faculty Students’ Union and the Medical Faculty Welfare Society to reignite the passion for Science, Mathematics, Electronics among medical students.

 

Our purpose

  • Nurturing scientific, analytical, technical and computational skill among medical students in order to make them useful at a professional level as well as to the entirety of Medicine

Our Mission

  • To provide a platform for medical students to expand their knowledge and showcase their talents in the fields of Biotechnology, Mathematics, Physics, Computer science, Electronics and other scientific disciplines

Objectives

  • To provide medical students with essential knowledge in Mathematics, Physics, Science and Electronics.
  • To provide students with the opportunity to further expand their skills and knowledge in the domains of  Mathematical and Computational Modelling, Artificial Intelligence, Bioelectronics and Robotics.
  • To create a platform for students to showcase their skills and talents in these fields from faculty level to international level.
  • To create opportunities for students to collaborate with other medical and non-medical faculties and organizations with the aim of encouraging multidisciplinary research and study in the domain of Digital Health.
  • To encourage discussions on topics in Science and Technology that have captured the interests of students but are indirectly related to medicine.
  • To provide guidance for careers and inter- disciplinary work.

Learn More: MFSTC

Medical Students’ Buddhist Association (MSBA)

The Medical Students’ Buddhist Association of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo is a vibrant, student-driven organization dedicated to promoting Buddhist values, mindfulness, and compassionate service. While primarily focused on the medical student community, the association’s initiatives reach well beyond the university, aiming to make a meaningful impact in the wider society.

Each year, the association organizes a range of spiritual, cultural, and social service events that reflect its core values. One of the association’s key initiatives is “Wassana Diyawara”, an annual academic outreach program aimed at supporting students in underprivileged schools as they prepare for the G.C.E. Ordinary Level Examination. The program is often accompanied by additional activities, such as health camps and other community-focused services.

The association also celebrates the Vesak Festival, featuring a Vesak lantern competition in the faculty and a book donation program for first-year students. Other notable activities include Poson Bakthi Geetha, Dhamma sermons, Meditation sessions, the annual Pirith chanting ceremony, Dansal, and various other initiatives designed to foster personal growth and contribute positively to the community.

Through these efforts, the Medical Students’ Buddhist Association continues to serve as a guiding light for students, encouraging a life of compassion, wisdom, and service.

Contacts: President – Pavara Perera (+94 77 698 7558) / Secretary – Shashini Geethika (+94 76 454 0195)


Catholic Medical Students’ Society (CMSS) / Catholic Students’ Movement (CSM)

The Catholic Students’ Movement of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, is one of the faculty’s oldest societies, with a proud legacy dating back to the 1950s. Grounded in Christian values, the Movement aims to form medical students into professionals who are not only competent but also compassionate and ethically grounded.

While centered on the Catholic faith, the Movement fosters interfaith dialogue and harmony, creating an inclusive space for all. Key annual events include Christmas Carols, Spiritual Retreats, Freshers’ Welcome, the Annual General Meeting (AGM), Charity Drives, Annual Trips, and the Way of the Cross. These events help foster a strong sense of community and support among members and within the faculty as a whole.

The Movement also encourages discussion on important ethical issues such as abortion, contraception, assisted reproduction, and end-of-life care—helping students reflect deeply on the responsibilities of the medical profession.

Contacts: President – Samagra Abeysena (+94 77 706 6236), Secretary – Druvinka Waas (+94 71 397 2379)

Medical Students’ Hindu Society (MSHS)

The Colombo Medical Students’ Hindu Society is one of the cultural societies formed with the intention of fostering religious and social harmony in collaboration with the other societies and as well as developing individual and group skills.

Contacts: President – Jeyasharan Jeyaseelan (+94 77 363 6807)

Medical Faculty Muslim Majlis (MFMM)

  • The Medical Faculty Muslim Majlis serves as a hub for Muslim students of the Faculty. The society’s aims are to nurture interfaith understanding across the Faculty while upholding the values of Islam.
  • The annual Grand Ifthar is a highlight of the Faculty calendar. It brings students together for a memorable night of friendship and dialogue with this message at heart. The Majlis also collaborates with other religious societies to organize multicultural events that promote interfaith dialogue.
  • The Majlis strengthens Islamic practice among Muslim students through regular religious programs, both within the Faculty and in the wider community. Community projects such as health camps and clothing donation drives give students the opportunity to develop skills and engage with each other and the community outside of the academic setting.

Contacts: Arsath (President) +94 75 226 2304 / Reema (Secretary) +94 78 371 8691

Core Group for Disaster Relief (CGDR)

Established in 2005, The Core Group for Disaster Relief (CGDR), is dedicated to providing relief during disasters and spreading awareness on disaster management, with the aim of producing medical professionals capable of navigating crises. The society has made valuable contributions during the 2005 Tsunami, 2017 floods, 2019 bomb blast and the Covid 19 Pandemic as well.

The CGDR focuses on capacity building programs to equip students with basic first aid training, knowledge on how to manage emergency situations, and on building a quick response team to help in managing large scale disasters.

The society has also conducted several other impactful projects over the years- including awareness campaigns, community outreach events on first aid, commemoration programmes for the 2004 tsunami and the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks, first aid training programs within the faculty, fire drills, and much more.

Contacts: Ashvni Chandrakumar (President) / Amiru Somanayake (Secretary)

Students Involved in Rational Health Activities (SIRHA)

Students Involved in Rational Health Activities (SIRHA) is one of the oldest non-profit student societies of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo. The Mission of SIRHA is to strive towards opening the minds of university students to aspects of health care, such as health promotion, resource prioritization and the rational use of medicines in order to make them better health care providers and to raise awareness of the general public.

Contacts: Chamath Lavinda (President) / Thanuja Madawala (Secretary)

Publications:

University of Colombo Clinical Society (UCCS)

The University of Colombo Clinical Society (UCCS), founded in 2018, is Sri Lanka’s only undergraduate-led Clinical Society. UCCS aims to mould well-rounded clinicians, ready for the ever-evolving world of medicine. Grand Rounds (a series of case-based discussions featuring expert clinicians) and MEDtalks (An inspiring series spot-lighting game-changers within and beyond Medicine) are the crown jewels of UCCS, running since the inception.

UCCS engages students throughout their academic journey – from welcoming new students into our community through orientation activities such as UCFM history walks and NHSL tours, to responding to the evolving needs of students by presenting innovative projects targeting elective/research opportunities (DiscoverMed) and clinical skills (Colombo Clinical Skills Course).

UCCS also celebrates global health days such as World Brain Day and Heart Day in collaboration with professional bodies gaining both national and international recognition.

Looking ahead, UCCS plans to expand its reach and impact through health-related public education videos and a UCCS podcast, further connecting with both the public and the global medical student community.

Get in touch!

  • Contact: Sachini Wijewardena (President) / Harindu Kirihene (Secretary)
  • Instagram: Instagram
  • Facebook: Facebook
  • YouTube: YouTube

Association of Wildlife and Photography

The Association of Wildlife and Photography is a vibrant community of students passionate about capturing moments and telling stories through photography. While rooted in a shared appreciation for wildlife and nature, our work extends beyond us, we actively cover key events and activities within the faculty, documenting memories and milestones with creativity and professionalism. Our members are trained and mentored through regular teaching sessions focused on both the technical and artistic aspects of photography, from mastering camera settings to visual composition and editing. We aim to foster a collaborative space where photography enthusiasts of all skill levels can grow, explore, and contribute meaningfully.

Facebook Page: Facebook

Contacts: Odindu Jayasinghe (President) / Lasitha Sandeepa (Secretary)

Anatomical Society

The Anatomical Society of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, is a registered student society established on the 10th of December 2014, in the wake of the centenary celebration of the historic Anatomy Block of the faculty.

Unique among the faculty’s societies, the Anatomical Society is led by the youngest batch of medical students, providing them with a platform to explore and develop their talents and skills. While deepening their understanding of human anatomy – particularly the vital relationship between structure and function—the society also fosters a collaborative environment that promotes academic excellence, interpersonal relationships, and the vibrant spirit of university life.

Journal link

Anatomical Society Website – https://anatomicalsocietyfomuoc.lk/

 

Contacts: Chanidu Wijayapala (President) 0773181989/ Apirami Hani (Secretary) 0704215888

Publications:

The Golden Z Club of the Faculty of Medicine

The Golden Z Club, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, was established in 2004 as a subsidiary of Zonta international operating at university level. Zonta international is a global collective of professionals striving to bring about empowerment to women and children by promoting gender equity. The golden club functions under the patronage of the mother club- the Zonta club 1 of Colombo.

Mission- to empower the women through service and advocacy projects and to stimulate new and meaningful student lead services and advocacy projects for personal development and improvement of social skills of the members .

Since initiation in the history of two decades, the club has done many groundbreaking impactful projects, which were able to spread a long-lasting effect in the community and allow its members to be a part of this supportive community and gain opportunities for personal and professional growth to the betterment of the society at large.

 

Contacts: Dulani Perera (President) / Mindula Gunasekara (Secretary)

Publications:

Faculty of Medicine Sports Association (FMSA)

The Faculty of Medicine Sports Association, established in 1997, is dedicated to promoting sports and physical activity among medical students, fostering both physical well-being and teamwork. Beyond competitive sports, the association plays an active role in medical education by organizing workshops and programmes on managing sports-related emergencies, injury prevention, and the fundamentals of exercise medicine.

Through flagship events such as Medfest, Law-Med, and Inter-Medical Tournaments, the association creates opportunities for medical students to engage in friendly competition, develop camaraderie, and maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle amidst the demands of medical training.

Contacts: Tharmeegan (President) / Sayuni Malavige (Secretary)

Rotaract Club of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo

The Rotaract Club of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo is the first Medical Faculty based club in the Rotaract International District of Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Established in 2018 under our charter president Rtr. PP Tushani Ranawaka, the Rotaract Club has completed a total of 81 projects under the avenues of Community Service, Club Service, Professional Development, International Services and Public Relations. Our motto is “Healing through Service”. The club was recognized as the “Most Striving Club of the Year” and was awarded a total of six Gold Awards, two Silver Awards and three Bronze Awards at the Rotaract District Assembly 2021.

Contacts:

  • President: Rtr. Varahini Kamalarajan ‪+94 70 175 1162
  • Secretary: Rtr. Jegathaparan Sezhnu ‪+94 77 291 3535
  • Immediate Past President: IPP Rtr. Navaneeth Krishna ‪+94 71 073 2070

Publications:

UCFM Film Club

Where Cinema Meets Medicine…

  • Founded in 2022, the UCFM Film Club brings students and academics together to explore the human side of medicine through film.
  • Our monthly MedCinema features medically themed films followed by expert-led discussions, promoting empathy and insight into patient care. With over 23 screenings and 150+ attendees per session, it’s a space for reflection and learning.
  • We also host the UCFM Film Fest (launched in 2025), Trivia Night, and the Film Club Blog, where members share reviews, reflections, and creative work.
  • We believe good doctors treat diseases—but great doctors understand people. Through cinema, we aim to nurture that understanding.
  • Vision: To foster humaneness in medical care.
  • Mission : To promote appreciation of medical sciences and humanities through film.

Contacts: Uthkarsha Chandrasena (President) / Nimesh Wickramasinghe (Secretary)

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Club (UCFM Resus Club)

The Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Club (UCFM Resus Club) of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo is a pioneering student-led initiative committed to advancing resuscitation education and awareness. Founded in year 2024 with the mission “to promote early recognition, teamwork and continuous training to improve cardiac arrest outcomes and save lives,” the club envisions building a community of medical students dedicated to mastering cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and making a lasting impact on both patient care and public health.

  • Since its inception, the club has conducted multiple CPR training sessions and Basic Life Support (BLS) skill workshops for medical students, faculty members, and the wider community. It also organizes community outreach programs to raise awareness on the importance of bystander CPR and collaborates with local healthcare professionals and emergency services to foster a more responsive and prepared society.
  • The UCFM Resus Club has proudly emerged as Champions of the Inter-University CPR Competition in 2024, organized by the Sri Lanka College of Anaesthesiologist; testament to the club’s excellence in resuscitation training and teamwork under pressure.
  • Through simulated scenarios, hands-on practice, and regular training aligned with international CPR guidelines, the club empowers future healthcare professionals with both technical and non-technical skills essential during critical emergencies.

Contacts: Vinuki Bandara (President) / Thinojan Thambipillai (Secretary)

Medical Students’ Chamber of Debate (MSCD)

The Medical Students’ Chamber of Debate is the Faculty of Medicine’s designated body of debate, discussion and ethico-social discourse. One of the oldest nationally registered university debate societies in Sri Lanka, it boasts a commanding position in Sri Lanka’s debating sphere, organizing the country’s largest university debate tournament – the Kynsey Inter Varsity Debating Championship – and shining at countless national and international tournaments across the years.

  • Whether in Sinhala, Tamil or English, in line with its motto Oratio et ethica, the Chamber offers a safe space for insightful discussion on pressing issues. Inter-Faculty and Inter-University collaborative sessions alongside informative community centered public health projects further enrich the Chamber membership experience.
  • In our fast paced world, society looks to doctors and other professionals for clarity, guidance and a steady voice. The Chamber helps you find that voice so that what you say matters and how you say it resonates.
  • Speak loud. Speak firm. Speak with us at the Chamber of Debate!

Societies attached to University of Colombo

Several facilities are provided for indoor and outdoor sports, both at the main university premises and the Faculty of Medicine. The main university sports complex has facilities for carrom, badminton, weightlifting, table tennis, chess, boxing and wrestling. Large grounds are also available for general sports training including cricket, rugby, football, netball, hockey,and athletics. There are tennis courts, volleyball courts and basketball courts as well. The Medical Faculty has facilities for table tennis, carrom, billiards, badminton and chess. Moreover, gymnasium facilities are available both at the main university premises and the Faculty of Medicine.
The Battle of Medicos, The Annual Cricket Match between the Medical Faculties of Colombo and Peradeniya is organized jointly by the Medical Faculty Students’ Union and the Faculty of Medicine Sports Association.

 

Sports Available in the Faculty

Badminton Baseball Basketball Carrom Chess Cricket
Football Hockey Karate Netball Rugby Rowing
Scrabble Swimming Table tennis Taekwondo Tennis Track and field
Volleyball Wrestling

 

Sports Available at the University

Badminton Baseball Basketball Beach Volleyball Boxing Carrom
Chess Cricket Elle Football Hockey Kabaddi
Karate Netball Road race Rowing Rugby Scrabble
Swimming Table tennis Taekwondo Tennis Track and Field Volleyball
Weightlifting Wrestling

 

Functions and Sports Festivals of FMSA

  • Law – medical sports encounter
  • Inter medical faculty championship
  • Med fest – Interbatch sports tournament
  • Battle of Medicos – cricket encounter between Faculty of medicine, university of Colombo and Faculty of medicine, university of Peradeniya.
  • Football Med Classico – Football encounter between Faculty of medicine, university of Colombo and Faculty of medicine, university of Peradeniya.
  • Colors Awards Ceremony of Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo.

 

Contacts

Faculty of Medicine Sports Association ( President)
Chethaka Wijegunasinghe

Faculty of medicine sports association ( Secretary )
Hasni Gunaratne

The Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo provides a great platform for their students to burnish their talents in arts. They are self organised by students under the guidance of the staff members. In a way these bring a relaxation to stressful and busy student life.

Religious Events Annual Pirith Chanting Ceremony & Almsgiving Faculty Trip Awurudu Ceremony
Freshers Welcome First year Batch Trip – Hanthana Freshers Cricket Colombo – Peradeniya Crickets Match
Ninnada Annual Blood Donation Camp Wassana Diyawara Book Donation Programme
Med – Fest Law – Med Annual carols Annual Bakthi Gee Programme