CSHS and NFTH Partner to Enhance Clinical Training for Nursing Students

Strategic Partnership Established to Launch NVQ Level 6 Diploma in Nursing Programme approved by Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission (TVEC)

Dr. Neville Fernando Teaching Hospital (NFTH) and the Colombo School of Health and Sciences (CSHS) have entered into a landmark partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding last week, marking a significant milestone in nursing education and healthcare workforce development in Sri Lanka. The signing ceremony, held at Dr. Neville Fernando Teaching Hospital, brought together key stakeholders from both institutions. Representing NFTH were Dr. Kamal Jayasinghe, Director of Dr. Neville Fernando Teaching Hospital, Mr. Sunil Galagama, Chairman of Dr. Neville Fernando Teaching Hospital, and Mr. M.P Perera, Chief Special Grade Nursing Officer. The CSHS delegation comprised Ms. Maneka Weddikkara, Program Director, Ms. Darshani Amarabandu, Director of Academic Support and Internal Verification, Mr. Harshana Rathnayaka, Lecturer and Academic Support Officer and Mr. Nethma Shatika, Senior Marketing Officer

Under this strategic collaboration, NFTH has been appointed as the official clinical training partner for CSHS's newly launched NVQ Level 6 Diploma in Nursing programme, which is set to commence in February 2026. This partnership represents CSHS's expanding commitment to nursing education and addresses the growing demand for qualified nursing professionals both locally and internationally. The programme structure integrates comprehensive theoretical instruction and skills-based practical training at CSHS facilities with extensive hands-on clinical experience at NFTH. Students will benefit from real-world exposure in a modern clinical environment, working under the direct supervision and mentorship of experienced nursing and medical professionals supported by contemporary clinical technology. One of the programme's key strengths lies in NFTH's diverse range of specialised clinical units, which will provide students with comprehensive training across multiple nursing disciplines. These include Intensive Care Nursing, Medical and Surgical Nursing, Trauma and Emergency Nursing, Dialysis and Renal Care Nursing, Paediatric Nursing, Gynaecology and Obstetrics Nursing, Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, and Geriatric Nursing. This breadth of clinical exposure ensures that graduates emerge as well-rounded, competent practitioners capable of working across various healthcare settings.

The three-year NVQ Level 6 / Higher National Diploma pathway has been carefully designed to produce practice-ready nurses who can immediately contribute to Sri Lanka's national healthcare system. Additionally, graduates will have the flexibility to pursue overseas employment opportunities, subject to meeting relevant regulatory requirements in their destination countries. For those aspiring to advance their academic credentials, the programme offers a clear progression pathway. Successful graduates will be eligible to pursue an internationally recognised BSc (Hons) Nursing top-up degree, opening doors to enhanced career prospects and professional development opportunities in the global healthcare sector. This collaboration between NFTH and CSHS represents a forward-thinking approach to nursing education, combining academic rigour with practical clinical excellence. As Sri Lanka continues to strengthen its healthcare infrastructure and respond to evolving medical challenges, partnerships such as this play a crucial role in ensuring a steady supply of highly trained nursing professionals equipped to meet both current and future healthcare demands. The partnership is expected to set a new standard for nursing education in the region, demonstrating the value of collaboration between academic institutions and healthcare facilities in producing graduates who are not only academically qualified but also clinically competent and ready to make an immediate impact in their professional roles.

CAPTION

Dr. Kamal Jayasinghe (Director - NFTH), Mr. Sunil Galagama (Chairman - NFTH), Mr. M.P. Perera (Chief Special Grade Nursing Officer), Ms. Maneka Weddikkara (Program Director - CHSH), Ms. Darshani Amarabandu (Director of Academic Support and Internal Verification), Mr. Harshana Rathnayaka (Lecturer and Academic Support Officer) and Mr. Nethma Shatika (Senior Marketing Officer)