Elective Training Programme in Parasitology for Foreign
Medical Undergraduate
The Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, conducted an elective training programme for international medical students under the supervision and coordination of Prof. Nayana Gunathilaka, Professor in Parasitology on 11th December 2025.
The programme was designed to provide comprehensive exposure to parasitological research and applied entomology. Each session comprised a brief lecture, a practical demonstration, and an interactive discussion, ensuring that participants gained both theoretical knowledge and hands‑on experience. Importantly, the topics were directly drawn from the ongoing postgraduate research and service components in disease diagnosis carried out in the Department, reflecting the integration of teaching with active research under the supervision of Prof. Gunathilaka.
Participating students
Antonia Seidl – Ludwig Maximilian University, Munich, Germany (Stream: Medicine)
Marie Eckelmann – Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany (Stream: Medicine)
Anika Schaar – Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany (Stream: Medicine)
Programme content
Forensic Entomology application for postmortem interval estimation (9.30 – 10.30 am)
Introduced to the principles of forensic entomology, focusing on how insect evidence can be used to estimate postmortem intervals in medico legal investigations. The session included a short lecture on case applications, a practical demonstration of insect specimen handling, and a discussion on the relevance of entomological methods in forensic science.
Leishmaniasis vectors and departmental research (10.45 – 11.15 am)
This session provided an overview of sand fly vectors responsible for leishmaniasis transmission in Sri Lanka. Students learned about vector identification techniques, current departmental research projects, and field based approaches to studying vector ecology. Practical demonstrations highlighted morphological features of sand flies, followed by a discussion on vector control strategies.
Leishmaniasis disease and parasite related research (11.30 am – 12.30 pm)
Participants explored the clinical and parasitological aspects of leishmaniasis, including diagnostic methods and molecular approaches used in ongoing research. The lecture covered disease epidemiology and parasite biology, while the practical component introduced laboratory techniques for parasite detection. The session concluded with a discussion on challenges in leishmaniasis management and research gaps.
Medically important arthropods and disease vectors (1.00 – 2.00 pm)
This interactive session showcased a range of arthropods of medical importance, including mosquitoes, ticks, and flies. Students engaged in hands on demonstrations to observe vector morphology and behavior, with emphasis on their role in disease transmission. The discussion highlighted integrated vector management approaches and the importance of entomological surveillance in public health.
Resource Team
- Nayana Gunathilaka – Professor in Parasitology (Coordinator/Supervisor of the Elective Programme)
- Deshaka Jayakody – M.Phil candidate (Forensic Entomology)
- Thulangi Siriwardana – Ph.D candidate (Molecular Medicine)
- Yashoda Kumari – Ph.D candidate (Medical Entomology)
- Rashmi Kavindya – M.Phil candidate (Parasitology)
Key Highlights
- Integrated learning approach: Each session combined lectures, practical demonstrations, and discussions.
- Hands‑on laboratory training: Exposure to parasitological diagnostics and entomological applications.
- Research immersion: Insights into ongoing departmental projects on leishmaniasis, forensic entomology and vector biology.
- Collaborative environment: Active engagement with postgraduate researchers.
- International academic exchange: Strengthening collaboration between Sri Lanka and European medical schools.
The visiting students conveyed their gratitude for the elective programme, highlighting the value of the sessions and the welcoming environment of the Department. They expressed that they had greatly enjoyed the experience and deeply appreciated the effort and dedication invested in organizing the training. This elective programme reflects the Department’s commitment to advancing parasitology education, fostering global partnerships, and providing enriching experiences for visiting medical students.
