Sri Lankan Professor Wins Prestigious International Nursing Award 2026

Sri Lankan academic Professor Sudath Shirley Pathmasiri Warnakulasuriya has been named the recipient of the prestigious Princess Srinagarindra Award 2026, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to nursing education and global healthcare.

The internationally recognised award is presented annually to an individual or group of nursing professionals worldwide for exceptional contributions to the nursing profession.

According to the Ministry of Health, Professor Warnakulasuriya was selected on September 9, 2026, by the Princess Srinagarindra Award Foundation Committee, chaired by Thailand’s Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. The award was formally presented at a ceremony held at the Grand Palace in Bangkok on October 28.

Transforming Nursing Education in Sri Lanka

The selection recognised Professor Warnakulasuriya’s leadership in strengthening nursing education in Sri Lanka, particularly through the introduction of Bachelor of Nursing Science degree programmes and the establishment of postgraduate master’s and doctoral programmes.

His contributions have also extended to developing mental health and psychiatric nursing education, improving professional standards and enhancing the international recognition of Sri Lankan nursing.

These initiatives have helped strengthen the academic foundation of the nursing profession and expand opportunities for advanced professional training in the country.

Recognition at National Level

Following the award ceremony, Professor Warnakulasuriya met Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa at the Ministry of Health, where he briefed the Minister on the international recognition.

Minister Jayatissa congratulated the professor on behalf of the Government and the people of Sri Lanka, describing the achievement as a source of immense national pride. He also commended his contributions to improving the quality of nursing education in the country.

An International Honour for Nursing Excellence

Established in 2000, the Princess Srinagarindra Award commemorates the centenary of the birth of Princess Srinagarindra, mother of Thailand’s former King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

Professor Warnakulasuriya’s selection places a Sri Lankan academic among internationally recognised contributors to nursing and healthcare, highlighting the country’s role in advancing nursing education and professional development.