The Asia Pacific Academic Consortium for Public Health (APACPH) proudly extends its heartfelt congratulations to Professor Indika M. Karunathilake on his recent appointment as the Vice Chancellor of the University of Colombo, Sri Lanka. This landmark appointment, formally made by the President of Sri Lanka, Mr. Anura Kumara Dissanayake, on May 23rd, 2025, honours a distinguished academic whose career has significantly shaped the landscape of public health and medical education in Asia and beyond.
A Pioneer in Academic Leadership
Professor Karunathilake, the first Professor of Medical Education at the University of Colombo, has been a transformative figure in Sri Lanka’s higher education sector. With academic roots in both the University of Colombo and the University of Dundee (UK), he also holds senior fellowships from the UK Higher Education Academy and the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh. His leadership extends across numerous global institutions, including the WHO, World Bank, ADB, and SEARAME.
Strategic Leadership in APACPH
Professor Karunathilake has had a longstanding and impactful role in APACPH. Elected unanimously as Secretary-General in 2021, he became the first Sri Lankan to serve in this role. Under his stewardship, APACPH has strengthened its academic collaborations and public health advocacy across the Asia-Pacific region. He has played a pivotal role in key initiatives, including the launch of the Global Network for Academic Public Health (GNAPH) during the 17th World Congress on Public Health.
Championing Future Leaders: ECN and Regional Office Leadership
As Director of the APACPH Early Career Network (ECN), Professor Karunathilake has passionately mentored the next generation of public health professionals. ECN, under his leadership, has become a vibrant platform supporting early-career academics through capacity-building, leadership development, and cross-border networking opportunities. His initiatives have cultivated a dynamic community of emerging public health leaders across the region.
Simultaneously, in his role as Director of the APACPH South Asia Regional Office, Professor Karunathilake has led efforts to strengthen public health systems through regional collaboration and training. His work has connected academic institutions and practitioners, facilitating knowledge exchange and capacity development in South Asia, one of the most populous and health-challenged regions globally.
A Legacy of Commitment
Professor Karunathilake’s involvement with APACPH spans over two decades, encompassing service on the Executive Board, engagement in accreditation processes, and contributions to capacity-building initiatives beyond the pandemic. He has frequently represented APACPH in public forums, including media discussions on public health preparedness and responses to emerging threats like the Omicron surge.
Looking Forward
With his appointment as Vice Chancellor, the University of Colombo is poised to benefit from Professor Karunathilake’s visionary leadership and global network. His commitment to academic excellence, innovation in medical education, and dedication to public health will undoubtedly elevate the university’s regional and international standing.
The APACPH celebrates this appointment as a reflection of Professor Karunathilake’s enduring contributions to public health education and leadership. We look forward to his continued influence in shaping healthier societies through academic excellence and collaborative engagement.
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