IIHS launches professional bachelors in oral hygiene and dental therapy

In a strategic step to elevate oral healthcare standards across Sri Lanka, the International Institute of Health Sciences (IIHS) recently celebrated the launch of its pioneering Professional Bachelors in Dental Therapy and Oral Hygiene. This transformative program is tailored to equip dental professionals with advanced, specialized skills, addressing the evolving needs of oral healthcare within the country and ultimately enhancing public health outcomes.

Oral health is a cornerstone of overall well-being, and Sri Lanka's increasing focus on preventive and community-oriented care is paving the way for sustainable healthcare solutions. By establishing this new bachelor's program, IIHS underscores its commitment to advancing oral healthcare in line with national health priorities. At the launch, distinguished guests included Dr. Ananda Jayalal, Deputy Director General of Health Services at the Ministry of Health, and Ms. M. Prabashini Kamaradiwela, President of the Government School Dental Therapists Association, who emphasized the shared mission of enhancing oral health standards and accessibility. Their endorsement reflects the growing opinion that advanced education is essential to meet the oral health needs of Sri Lanka’s diverse communities.

The Professional Bachelor’s in Dental Therapy and Oral Hygiene program at IIHS is designed to integrate theoretical understanding with intensive practical training, preparing graduates to serve in a variety of professional roles. The curriculum spans critical areas such as preventive dental care, patient-centred management, and community health engagement. This structure aims to produce professionals who are not only skilled but also responsive to the complexities of modern dental care. With a focus on both individual and public health, graduates will be well-equipped to deliver comprehensive care aligned with current healthcare practices and policies.

This programme is a long-term investment in both career development for dental professionals and the health of communities nationwide. Graduates of the Professional Bachelor’s in Dental Therapy and Oral Hygiene will emerge as advocates for oral health awareness, disease prevention, and equitable access to care, particularly in underserved regions. Through this initiative, IIHS reaffirms the role of education in shaping a healthcare workforce that champions preventive health measures, reduces oral disease incidence, and ultimately strengthens national health resilience.

The launch of the bachelor’s program has assembled support from healthcare sector leaders, including Dr. Jayalal and Ms. Kamaradiwela, who are influential advocates for expanding access to quality dental services. Their active involvement symbolizes the program’s commitment to aligning with local healthcare policies, and their expertise is expected to enrich the learning experience. This partnership further establishes the program’s relevance, ensuring that graduates are prepared to meet the needs of both urban and rural populations across the island.

As Sri Lanka seeks to achieve higher standards in public health, initiatives like the Professional Bachelor’s in Dental Therapy and Oral Hygiene reflect a forward-thinking approach to healthcare education. By cultivating a skilled, community-centred workforce, this program supports a future in which dental professionals play a vital role in elevating national health standards. Recognizing that oral health is integral to a healthier society, IIHS’s commitment to quality education promises lasting impact—reduced healthcare costs, improved quality of life, and increased productivity among communities.

The launch of the Professional Bachelor’s in Dental Therapy and Oral Hygiene marks a transformative milestone for healthcare education in Sri Lanka. It reflects a dual commitment: to raise the standards of dental care through rigorous education and to foster a culture of health awareness within the community. With backing from esteemed health leaders and dedicated educational institutions like IIHS, Sri Lanka’s journey toward a healthier future is well underway. This initiative embodies a collective vision, affirming that well-trained dental professionals are essential to building healthier, empowered communities across the nation.

"Today marks a significant milestone in our journey to transform oral healthcare in Sri Lanka. The launch of the Professional Bachelor’s in Dental Therapy and Oral Hygiene program at IIHS is a testament to our commitment to advancing healthcare education and meeting the growing needs of our communities. By equipping dental professionals with advanced skills, we are not only enhancing individual care but also fostering a culture of preventive oral health that will have a lasting impact on public health. I am proud to see IIHS take this step-in collaboration with esteemed leaders in the healthcare sector, and I am confident that our graduates will play a vital role in shaping the future of oral healthcare in Sri Lanka." Dr. Kithsiri Edirisinghe (CEO – IIHS) stated.