🩺 Our Mission
The O.E.R. Abhayaratne Trust is dedicated to strengthening Sri Lanka’s public health systems by supporting sustainable, community-based health projects and research. We believe that transformative health solutions begin at the local level—where communities know their needs best.Founded in memory of Professor O.E.R. Abhayaratne, one of Sri Lanka’s most respected public health leaders, the Trust continues his life’s work: building a healthier, more equitable nation through knowledge, compassion, and action.
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Prof. Abhayaratne (left) at the 1948 International Congress on Tropical Medicine, Washington D.C.
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Prof. OER Abhayratne leaning against Harvard Monument
🇱🇰 Why Sri Lanka? Why Now?
Sri Lanka has long been recognized for its commitment to free healthcare and high-quality public health outcomes. But communities today face increasing strain—particularly in rural areas—due to rising costs, under-resourced facilities, and limited opportunities for locally-driven health innovation.The O.E.R. Abhayaratne Trust exists to bridge that gap.
Through the O.E.R. Abhayaratne Endowment Fund, we provide annual grants that:
- Empower local health professionals and researchers
- Fund community-led health interventions
- Promote practical, evidence-based solutions tailored to Sri Lankan realities
Community dialogue: Women in discussion with medical officers and public health workers in a rural setting💡 How the Trust Works
Each year, interest from the Endowment Fund is directed toward the O.E.R. Abhayaratne Grant, awarded to impactful health research and projects through the University of Colombo’s Department of Community Health. Grants are selected by an independent committee, appointed by the Prof. O.E.R. Abhayaratne Trust.
The Trust ensures:
- Transparent and rigorous project selection
- A focus on sustainability and community participation
- Clear reporting and measurable health outcomes
University of Colombo medical students engaging with rural schools and field settings as part of a community medicine module
✨ Your Impact
Your support directly contributes to a healthier Sri Lanka—where communities are not just recipients of care but leaders in shaping their own health futures.
Whether you’re contributing in memory of a loved one, supporting Sri Lankan development, or honoring Prof. Abhayaratne’s enduring legacy, your donation helps fund:
- Grassroots health education
- Improved access to care
- Innovative public health research
- Stronger health systems for future generations
Give today. Help communities in Sri Lanka thrive.
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Public health students visiting elders to document community health needs during field placements
📬 Stay Connected
Sign up to receive stories from the field, updates on our grant recipients, and news on how your support is making a difference in Sri Lanka’s health landscape.
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Grant-supported researcher presenting findings at an international conference—turning local data into global insights.
📄 Learn More
To read the official letter of invitation from the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, including details of the endowment’s purpose, administration, and legacy of Professor O.E.R. Abhayaratne:
👉 Download the Official Invitation Letter (PDF)
Issued by Prof. Vajira H.W. Dissanayake, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo
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