The Faculty of Medicine, University of Jaffna, recently participated in an insightful visit to The HALO Trust’s mine clearance operations, reflecting a shared commitment to humanitarian service, professional development, and community safety.
The visiting delegation included distinguished professionals from the University of Jaffna, Teaching Hospital Jaffna, and other institutions:
- Dr. T. Sathiyamoorthy – Director, Teaching Hospital, Jaffna
- Prof. Dr. B. Balagobi – Head, Department of Surgery & Consultant Urological Surgeon
- Prof. Dr. S. Kumaran – Head of Family Medicine, Department of Community Medicine
- Dr. M. Thavarasa – Consultant OMF Surgeon
- Eng. N. Suthakaran – Deputy Chief Secretary (Engineering Services)
- Eng. Shan Sundaram – Retired Engineer, USA
- Mr. Arasaratnam Pankayatselvan – Principal, Kilinochchi / Murukanantha College
The visit commenced with a comprehensive overview of HALO Trust operations and medical support systems, delivered by Mr. Vithoozen Antony (Operations Manager) and Dr. Gnanasutharshan Sabapathy (Chief Medical Officer).
During the field visit to the Muhamalai minefield, participants observed practical demonstrations including a casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) exercise and mechanical mine clearance operations. These activities provided valuable exposure to HALO’s safety protocols, operational strategies, and emergency preparedness in high-risk environments.
Key Outcomes and Future Directions
The visit led to several important discussions and proposed initiatives:
- Academic Collaboration: Opportunities to support staff development through accreditation pathways, assessment-based qualifications, and professional certification frameworks.
- Institutional Partnership: Plans to establish a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between The HALO Trust and the University of Jaffna to facilitate student internships, volunteering, and research collaborations across multiple disciplines.
- Capacity Building & Networking: Engagement with regional industry stakeholders to support training, resource provision, and future employment opportunities.
- Awareness and Heritage Initiative: Proposal to establish a museum or exhibition space to highlight the history and impact of mine action in Sri Lanka and promote public awareness.
Next Steps
Mr. Arasaratnam Pankayatselvan has kindly agreed to contribute an article to the Thinakaran newspaper highlighting HALO Trust’s humanitarian work. Additionally, Dr. T. Sathiyamoorthy and Prof. Dr. B. Balagobi will coordinate further discussions with HALO Trust’s management to advance the proposed collaborations.
The Faculty extends its sincere appreciation to The HALO Trust for their dedication and for providing this valuable learning opportunity. This visit marks an important step toward meaningful partnerships that will benefit students, professionals, and communities alike.
