Professor Sudath Warnakulasuriya Makes History as the First Sri Lankan Recipient of the Prestigious Princess Srinagarindra Award 2026
A landmark international recognition of excellence in nursing, compassion, education, research and leadership, the University of Colombo proudly celebrates a historic achievement in Sri Lankan nursing and higher education as Professor Sudath Shirley Pathmasiri Warnakulasuriya, the head of the Department of Clinical Nursing and former Dean of the Faculty of Nursing, becomes the first Sri Lankan recipient of the prestigious Princess Srinagarindra Award 2026, one of the most distinguished international honours in the nursing and midwifery professions.
This remarkable recognition celebrates Professor Warnakulasuriya’s outstanding contributions to nursing through human caring, nursing education, research and professional leadership. It represents not only a personal achievement but also a significant milestone for Sri Lankan nursing, the University of Colombo and the country’s healthcare system.
The award was presented by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand on 28 October 2026 at a prestigious royal ceremony held at the Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand. Receiving this distinguished honour under royal patronage marks an extraordinary moment in Professor Warnakulasuriya’s professional journey and brings international recognition to the contributions of Sri Lankan nurses.
Professor Warnakulasuriya has made remarkable contributions to the advancement of nursing education and professional development in Sri Lanka. As the country’s first Professor of Nursing and the first nursing Dean of a government university, he has played a pioneering role in strengthening university-based nursing education. His academic journey, including a Master’s degree from the University of Adelaide, Australia, a PhD from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura and further postgraduate qualifications, reflects his commitment to academic excellence, lifelong learning and research.
Beyond academia, his contributions to nursing research, evidence-based practice and professional leadership have significantly supported the development of the nursing profession. Having served as President of the Sri Lanka Nurses Association and the Graduate Nurses Foundation of Sri Lanka, as well as participating in the Global Nursing Leadership Institute in Geneva, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing nursing standards, professional leadership and healthcare development. His achievement stands as an inspiration to the nursing community and future generations of healthcare professionals in Sri Lanka.
