Faculty of Dental Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Dental Association and sponsored by the World Dental Federation, successfully conducted a field training programme on 5th October 2024. This initiative took place in the Public Health Inspector (PHI) areas of Kobawaka and Agaloya within the MOH Bulathsinghala division. The event aimed to enhance the skills of third-year dental undergraduates in oral cancer screening while promoting tobacco and areca nut cessation among rural communities offering free oral cancer screenings to 218 villagers. The objectives of this field training were:
- To enhance the oral cancer screening skills among dental undergraduates in field settings.
- To understand the living conditions and difficulties faced by rural villagers.
- To explore the socio-cultural and religious aspects that contribute to betel quid chewing practices.
- To deliver brief intervention messages promoting healthier lifestyle habits to the villagers.
The programme was a significant step in bridging the gap between academic training and real-world experience, fostering community engagement and reinforcing the role of dental professionals in promoting public health.