Pictured in the image are key representatives from IIHS and the University of Surrey, including Dr. Kithsiri Edirisinghe (CEO/Co-Founder/Director Academics, Strategy & International Affairs – IIHS), Dr. Dinusha Kanatiwela (Head- Academic Quality Assurance and BioInquirer/Senior Lecturer – IIHS), Ms. Jackie McBride (Associate Head – School of Health, Surrey University, UK), Dr. Wendy Grosvenor (Associate Professor – School of Health, Surrey University, UK), and Dr. Shelini Surendran (Associate Dean International FHMS, Associate Professor in Biosciences, School of Biosciences, Surrey University UK).

The International Institute of Health Sciences (IIHS), a pioneer in healthcare training for over 23 years, has partnered with the University of Surrey, UK, to revolutionize healthcare education in Sri Lanka and the broader South Asian region. This collaboration establishes a world-class academic pathway for aspiring nursing and healthcare professionals, as well as young individuals seeking careers in the field.

Advancing Healthcare Education

Under this agreement, IIHS and the University of Surrey will introduce a series of academic initiatives to enhance healthcare training and accessibility. These include delivering internationally recognized nursing programs that allow Sri Lankan and regional students to earn globally competitive qualifications while studying in Sri Lanka. Additionally, a seamless transition pathway will be established, enabling students to complete part of their education at IIHS before transferring to the University of Surrey for their final year. The collaboration will also develop integrated programs combining Sri Lankan and UK curricula, ensuring that graduates are equipped to meet global healthcare challenges with confidence and expertise. IIHS has already contributed to training over 3,500 government nurses and facilitated academic progression for 2,000 students. This partnership further strengthens its role as a leader in healthcare education, providing students with enhanced opportunities for international academic and career advancement.

Impact on Sri Lanka and the Region

Dr. Kithsiri Edirisinghe, CEO & Dean of Undergraduate Studies at IIHS, highlighted: “This MOU marks a significant step in our mission to deliver world-class healthcare education to Sri Lanka and the region. IIHS remains dedicated to shaping the future of healthcare professionals and fostering global healthcare leadership.”

Dr. Shelini Surendran, Associate Dean (International) at the University of Surrey, emphasized: “Sri Lanka is establishing itself as a regional education hub, and this partnership ensures students across Asia can access top-tier UK healthcare education at IIHS. By bridging academic excellence with accessibility, we provide students with a clear pathway to their professional goals.”

Sri Lanka as a Healthcare Education Hub: This initiative strengthens Sri Lanka’s role as a center of excellence in healthcare education by; attracting international students, enhancing the education sector and economy; addressing the global nursing shortage through highly skilled graduates and elevating Sri Lanka’s academic standing through research and international collaborations.

Through this partnership, IIHS reaffirms its commitment to redefining healthcare education and empowering students with the skills and knowledge to excel in global healthcare environments.