In a bold move to reframe public health priorities, Sri Lanka is turning its attention away from overburdened hospitals and toward empowering communities to stay healthy before they ever need a hospital bed.
Launching the “Community Health Vision – 2025” march and health education exhibition, Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa made a powerful point: the future of healthcare lies not within hospital walls, but within our communities. No matter how much is invested in hospitals from infrastructure to staff the system has its limits. What’s needed now, the Minister emphasized, is a nationwide shift in focus: prevent disease, reduce hospital admissions, and build a culture of well-being.
This event, co-organized by the College of Community Physicians of Sri Lanka (CCPSL) and the Ministry of Health, kicked off at Independence Square and concluded at Vihara Mahadevi Park, where a day-long health education exhibition unfolded under the theme “A Healthy Life – A Happy Life.”
Speaking at the event, Dr. Jayatissa underscored that true progress comes not from more beds or machines, but from educating the public, building awareness, and fostering healthier lifestyles. The Ministry, he said, is committed to tackling this long-term mission with courage and consistency, calling on all Sri Lankans to share the responsibility.
Importantly, the Minister praised the Association of Community Health Specialists for its data-driven, timely interventions shaping programs that respond directly to the nation’s evolving health needs.
The exhibition featured an impressive lineup of activities: educational booths, wellness workshops, children’s art displays, healthy food stalls, and free health screenings. An open-air cultural show capped off the evening, reflecting the Ministry’s belief that health education can be engaging, inclusive, and life-changing.
The event drew a strong crowd, including key government officials, health experts, international partners, academics, NGOs, military personnel, and everyday citizens all united by one goal: to make Sri Lanka a healthier, happier nation.
As Sri Lanka takes this courageous step toward community-based health, the message is clear: a hospital is the last line of defense, not the first. Prevention is the new prescription.
