Lanka to uplift Bhutan health facilities

by Bharatha Malawaraarachchi

Sri Lanka has expressed willingness to extend assistance towards improving the healthcare facilities in Bhutan, under the co-operation program among the South Asian countries.

Accordingly, Sri Lanka has agreed to provide internship training for Bhutan medical students who are now studying in Sri Lankan Universities once they complete the degree. "Besides, Sri Lanka will provide them more opportunities for post graduate studies," a Ministry spokesman added.

Healthcare and Nutrition Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva who visited Bhutan recently singed a Memorandum of Understanding in this regard with the Bhutan's Health Minister Liyonpo Jigmi Singe.

There are 39 Bhutan medical students studying in Sri Lankan universities. The Health Ministry has decided to prepare a programme to train those students paying special attention to categories such as physicians, obstetricians and gynaecologists, surgeons and dermatologists.

According to the agreement, Bhutan has expressed willingness to provide employment opportunities for Sri Lankan Medical Laboratory technologists to support Bhutan's health service.

Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva also held talks with Bhutan's King His Royal Highness Jigme Singe Wan-Chuk.

Deputy Director General of the Health Services Muditha Jayathilake also joined the tour, representing the Health Department.