Professor Subramaniam Raviraj is a distinguished surgeon and academic with decades of dedicated service to the medical and academic community. As the Chair Professor of Surgery and Consultant Surgeon at the Professorial Surgical Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Teaching Hospital-Jaffna, University of Jaffna, he has left an indelible mark on medical education and healthcare in Sri Lanka. Holding an MBBS from the University of Jaffna and an MS in Surgery from the University of Colombo, Prof. Raviraj has advanced through various roles, including Senior House Officer, Registrar, Senior Registrar, Acting Consultant Surgeon, and Board-Certified Consultant Surgeon. For over three decades, Prof. Raviraj has been an integral part of undergraduate and postgraduate medical education.
His leadership roles include serving twice as the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Head of the Department of Surgery, and membership in numerous university councils and committees.
During his deanship, Prof. S. Raviraj’s involvement was also vital for the newly built Clinical Training and Research Block of the Faculty of Medicine, a landmark building completed after 45 years.
Additionally, he has contributed significantly to the development of curricula in surgery, anatomy, and pathology. As an author, he has published textbooks on clinical surgery and patient care, alongside numerous research papers and case reports in prestigious medical journals.
Prof. Raviraj has also actively engaged in public health awareness through his scholarly presentations and publications. In recognition of his academic and professional contributions, Prof. Raviraj has held key administrative positions, including President of several medical associations and societies. Beyond academia, his community service includes leadership roles such as President of the Sri Chandrasekhara Pilliayar Temple in Chunnakam and Vice President of the Old Boys’ Association at St. John’s College.
In his ongoing commitment to education and healthcare, Prof. Raviraj has been appointed as a commission member of the University Grants Commission (UGC). His involvement is expected to significantly benefit the university system, particularly the University of Jaffna, and contribute to the advancement of healthcare systems across Sri Lanka.
In honor of his extraordinary career, the Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Jaffna, organized a Grand Ward Round and a Farewell Dinner to celebrate Prof. Raviraj’s legacy.
The Grand Ward Round, held on Saturday, 7 December 2024, at 11.30 am in the University Surgical Unit (Ward 29/23A), Teaching Hospital, Jaffna, highlighted Prof. Raviraj’s remarkable dedication to medical education and clinical excellence, providing an opportunity to celebrate his legacy with students, colleagues, and the medical fraternity.
The Farewell Dinner, held on the same day at 6.30 PM in Hoover Auditorium, Faculty of Medicine, University of Jaffna, brought together colleagues, students, and well-wishers to honor Prof. Raviraj’s immense contributions.
The evening featured heartfelt tributes, shared memories, and best wishes for his retirement. Attendees reflected on his visionary leadership, which has significantly shaped the Faculty of Medicine and healthcare in the Northern Province and beyond.
As Prof. Raviraj transitions into retirement, his enduring passion for education and healthcare promises to continue benefiting Northern education and health development.
We extend our deepest gratitude to Prof. Subramaniam Raviraj for his unparalleled service and wish him a happy, fulfilling retirement.
His legacy will inspire generations to come.
