The Annual Research Symposium (ARS) 2025 of the Postgraduate Institute of Medicine (PGIM), University of Colombo, was successfully held on 7 November 2025, bringing together postgraduate trainees, trainers, academics, researchers, and healthcare professionals from diverse specialties. The symposium served as a vibrant platform for showcasing research, fostering academic dialogue, and promoting a culture of evidence-based practice within the postgraduate medical community. The theme of ARS 2025, “Ethics and Medico-Legal Awareness in Healthcare,” highlighted the growing importance of ethical practice, professional accountability, and legal considerations in contemporary healthcare. The symposium provided an opportunity for participants to reflect on these issues while exploring the latest developments in research and

The inauguration ceremony was graced by Prof. Jayantha Jayawardena, whose presence underscored the significance of the event and the institute’s commitment to academic excellence and professional integrity. The ceremony was attended by distinguished guests,
academic staff, trainers, trainees, and invited participants. The keynote address was delivered by Mr. Geoffrey Alagaratnam, President’s Counsel, whose presentation offered valuable insights into the ethical and medico-legal challenges encountered in healthcare practice. As a leading authority in legal practice, his address emphasized the importance of adherence to ethical standards, legal accountability, and informed decision-making in clinical settings. His thought-provoking presentation stimulated meaningful discussion on the responsibilities of healthcare professionals in an increasingly complex healthcare environment.

Following the keynote address, the symposium featured an oration delivered by Dr Sajith Edirisinghe MBBS, PhD (University of Sri Jayewardenepura), Senior Lecturer and Clinical Geneticist, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, further enriching the academic programme. The orator spoke on his research work; he was selected as the orator for 2025, and each year, an oration is selected through a call, with the orator chosen by a special panel appointed by the Director, PGIM.

Throughout the day, participants presented their research findings through oral and poster presentations, covering a broad spectrum of clinical, public health, educational, and healthcare- related topics. In addition, for the first time, a parallel session was conducted for administrative staff and academic support staff, providing them with an opportunity to showcase their contributions and engage in scholarly activities. These presentations highlighted the high quality of research undertaken by PGIM trainees and academic staff. This also marked an important step in extending scholarly opportunities to administrative and academic support staff, reflecting the institute’s commitment to inclusivity and the advancement of knowledge.

The symposium also provided an important forum for interdisciplinary interaction, enabling participants from different specialties to exchange ideas, discuss emerging challenges, and explore opportunities for collaboration. Such engagement is essential in strengthening the research culture within the institute and supporting the development of future clinician- scientists and academic leaders.

The successful organization of ARS 2025 was made possible through the dedication and hard work of the organizing committee, reviewers, presenters, trainers, trainees, administrative staff, and numerous other contributors. Their collective efforts ensured a well-coordinated and intellectually stimulating event. The Postgraduate Institute of Medicine remains committed to promoting research excellence and academic scholarship. Through events such as the Annual Research Symposium, the institute continues to encourage innovation, critical inquiry, and the dissemination of knowledge for the benefit of the healthcare sector and the wider community.