Experience Clinical Training in Sri Lanka
The Foreign Student Elective Programme at the Postgraduate Medical Centre Kandy (PMCK) provides international medical and allied health students with valuable clinical exposure in one of Sri Lanka’s leading tertiary healthcare institutions.
The programme is designed to offer hands-on learning opportunities, exposure to diverse medical conditions, and interaction with experienced healthcare professionals within a structured academic environment.
About the Programme
The elective programme was introduced in 2000 to facilitate international and local medical students seeking clinical and non-clinical elective appointments.
Students are placed within hospital units according to availability and specialty preferences, allowing them to gain insight into Sri Lanka’s healthcare system and clinical practices.
Why Choose PMCK for Your Elective?
Key Advantages
- Wide range of clinical specialty exposure
- High patient volume and diverse case presentations
- Opportunity to learn within a multidisciplinary healthcare environment
- Academic support through lectures and study facilities
- Affordable elective experience for international students
- Exposure to healthcare delivery in South Asia
- Supportive environment for foreign students
Clinical Specialties Available
Elective students may gain exposure to multiple specialties depending on placement availability.
Major Clinical Areas
- General Medicine
- General Surgery
- Pediatrics
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Nephrology
- Oncology
- Neurosurgery
- Psychiatry
- Orthopaedic Surgery
- Respiratory Medicine
- Dermatology
- Ophthalmology
- ENT
- Plastic Surgery
- Cardiothoracic Surgery
- Gastroenterology
- Emergency Medicine
Specialized Units
Students may also observe:
- Intensive Care Units (ICUs)
- Emergency Treatment Units
- Interventional Radiology
- Cath Labs
- Endoscopy Units
- Dialysis Units
- Neonatal and Pediatric Intensive Care
Academic and Student Facilities
PMCK provides students with facilities that support both clinical learning and academic study.
Available Facilities
- Library and E-Library access
- Lecture halls with regular academic sessions
- Dedicated study rooms
- Computer and office facilities
- Printing, photocopying, and scanning services
- Air-conditioned learning spaces
Student Learning Experience
The programme encourages students to actively participate in ward-based learning, observe clinical procedures, attend academic discussions, and work alongside consultants and medical teams.
Students are encouraged to:
- Be proactive and enthusiastic
- Maintain professionalism within clinical settings
- Respect consultants, supervisors, staff, and patients
- Communicate politely and professionally
- Demonstrate empathy and compassion toward patients
The elective experience is designed to strengthen both clinical knowledge and professional development.
Important Information for Elective Students
Before Completing the Elective
Students should:
- Collect feedback and evaluation forms
- Request recommendation letters in advance if needed
- Inform respective units about appointment completion dates
Ethical Guidelines
- Do not provide gifts or money to hospital staff
- All official payments should only be made through the office
- Always request official payment acknowledgements
Contact Information
Emergency Contacts
- Mrs. Deepika Wickramasooriya: +94 77 780 1996
Official Programme Contact
Dr. Palitha Rathnayake
Medical Director – Postgraduate Medical Centre Kandy
Contact: +94 77 780 1636
The Foreign Student Elective Programme at PMCK offers international students a valuable opportunity to gain clinical exposure, experience diverse healthcare settings, and develop professional skills within Sri Lanka’s medical system.
With access to multiple specialties, academic resources, and experienced healthcare professionals, PMCK continues to provide a rewarding and educational elective experience for students from around the world.