The International Institute of Health Sciences (IIHS), a leader in Sri Lanka’s healthcare education sector, has set the stage for students to pursue world-class undergraduate medical education. With over two decades of excellence, IIHS has earned a reputation as a premier institution producing skilled healthcare professionals who now contribute to healthcare systems across the globe, including in Australia, the UK, and the USA.
Dr. Kithsiri Edirisinghe, Co-Founder, CEO, and Dean of Medical Studies at IIHS, highlighted the institute’s role in addressing the critical global shortage of medical professionals. “The World Health Organization projects a deficit of 10 million medical doctors by 2030, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. IIHS is bridging this gap by equipping students with world-class undergraduate pathways that lead to fulfilling careers in medicine,” he stated.
IIHS offers three distinctive undergraduate pathways tailored to meet the diverse needs of students aspiring to become healthcare professionals: MedStart, Biomedical Science, and the International School of Western Australia (ISWA).
The MedStart program, delivered by the GEMS Institute at IIHS Multiversity, offers a two-and-a-half-year curriculum culminating in a Bachelor of Medical Science degree from the University of Surrey, UK. This pathway provides an entry point for students to pursue degrees in Medicine, Veterinary Science, or Physician Associate studies at globally renowned universities. Graduates of the program have been accepted into institutions such as the University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Harvard Medical School, and the University of Sydney.
The Biomedical Science program provides students with a comprehensive foundation in subjects such as Genetics, Molecular Biology, and Clinical Laboratory Science. This program not only prepares students for roles as biomedical scientists and researchers but also acts as a stepping stone for graduate-entry medicine programs at prestigious universities. “This pathway ensures students are well-prepared academically and competitively positioned to succeed in medical school admissions,” Dr. Edirisinghe explained.
For students aiming to pursue undergraduate medical studies in Australia, the International School of Western Australia (ISWA) offers a direct pathway. Through the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE), students achieve the Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) required for university admissions. In addition, students benefit from a 25% scholarship offered by Western Australian universities and are exempt from IELTS requirements, making the transition seamless.
Dr. Edirisinghe emphasized the broader vision of IIHS. “Our programs are designed not only to provide academic excellence but also to create pathways for Sri Lankan students to thrive in international healthcare environments. IIHS is empowering students to take their place as leaders in global medicine.”
With its innovative undergraduate pathways and commitment to producing world-class medical professionals, IIHS is redefining the opportunities available to aspiring healthcare students in Sri Lanka. As the global demand for medical professionals continues to rise, IIHS remains at the forefront, preparing students to meet and exceed the expectations of the international healthcare sector.
