Sri Lanka’s first-ever Inter-University competition for 3D printed Assistive Medical Technology,  Make-A-Thon’ 25 held from February 22–24, 2025, at the Faculty of Computing and Technology, University of Kelaniya, concluded successfully, showcasing the power of innovation, collaboration, and problem-solving in the field of assistive technology. This 48-hour challenge brought together 75 undergraduate competitors comprising 13 teams from 9 state and non-state universities in the fields of engineering, computing, medical sciences, allied health sciences and industrial design, individuals with disabilities (“need-knowers”), speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, specialists in education and training and foreign experts in occupational therapy and 3D printing, creating a platform where cutting-edge 3D printing technology was used to develop life-changing medical solutions. The “Make-A-Thon” was focused on co-creation with need-knowers – adults and children with disabilities and their families, who shared their personal challenges and worked directly with teams to develop functional, practical assistive devices tailored to their needs. Using state-of-the-art 3D printers, teams rapidly prototyped customized medical and accessibility solutions in real time, ensuring that each innovation was designed for and with the user.

The event was inaugurated by Prof. Nilanthi De Silva, Vice Chancellor, University of Kelaniya, and the Grand Finale was graced by Chief Guest, Hon. Prof. Chrishantha Abeysena, Minister of Science and Technology, along with Prof. Veranja Karunaratne, Commissioner, Sri Lanka Inventors Commission, Mr. Hiroki Inoue, Second Secretary Embassy of Japan in Sri Lanka, Mr. Takafumi Kadono, Country Director, Sri Lanka Resident Mission, Asian Development Bank, Mr. Ryotaro Hayashi (Senior Social Sector Economist, ADB), and Mr. Takashi Shimizu, Team Leader of Employment Support of Person with Disabilities, JICA. The expert judging panel included Mr. Takashi Shimizu (Team Leader of Employment Support of Person with Disabilities, JICA) , Mr. Naoki Hamanaka (FabLab Shinagawa), Ms. Sonoko Hayashi (FabLab Shinagawa), and Mr. Koji Yamada (Director, Otsuka Innovation CO-LAB).

The Make-A-Thon concluded with outstanding innovations and well-deserved recognition. Team Bodacious from the University of Moratuwa won the Grand Prize of LKR 100,000 and a trophy for developing a modified keyboard with embossed letters, an adjustable stand, and back-lighting to help a 10-year-old boy with severe cerebral visual impairment type more easily. Team Solidifiers from SLTC University took the Runner-Up prize of LKR 75,000 and a trophy for creating a lateral support device that can be attached to any chair, helping a 6-year-old boy with scoliosis sit comfortably anywhere. The People’s Choice Award, selected by public vote, was given to Team MedRAMP from General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, who won LKR 50,000 and a trophy for designing an assistive device that mimics a human hand, enabling a 55-year-old male with amputated fingers to grip farming tools and tie knots. Each team showcased impressive problem-solving and creativity!

The event was made possible by the generous funding support of the Science and Technology Human Resource Development Project of the Asian Development Bank (STHRD-ADB), and sponsoring support of Leeban Interiors, Thrimana 3D Printers, Avon Pharmo Chem (Pvt) Ltd. and ATG Group.

The event was a resounding success, marking a new chapter in assistive medical technology innovation in Sri Lanka. A big thank you to all participants, mentors, and sponsors for making this possible!