The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA), which was established in 1926, marked a historic milestone on 13th May 2026 with its Official Centenary Celebrations held at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH), Colombo 07, under the theme,
“A Century of Healing the Nation.”
The event commemorated one hundred years of dedicated service by the GMOA in safeguarding the rights of doctors, financial stability, professional dignity, and welfare while nurturing Sri Lanka’s free healthcare system. Since its establishment in 1926, the Association has played a pivotal role in shaping health policy, strengthening public healthcare services, and advocating for the welfare of both healthcare workers and the communities they serve.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Palitha Mahipala, former Secretary to the Ministry of Health, paid tribute to the constructive role played by the GMOA throughout its history. Reflecting on his experience working closely with the Association as both Director General of Health Services and Secretary of Health, he stated:
“My experience as Director General and Secretary of Health with the GMOA was mostly sincere, collaborative, and extremely positive. The impact created was outstanding, remarkable, and unparalleled.”
His remarks highlighted the GMOA’s longstanding commitment to constructive engagement and its ability to work collaboratively with health authorities to address national healthcare challenges while advancing the interests of both medical professionals and the public.
A special address was delivered by Professor Vajira Dissanayake, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, who emphasized the importance of professional leadership, high-quality medical education, and innovation in ensuring the continued progress of Sri Lanka’s healthcare system.
The centenary celebration brought together a distinguished gathering of former Presidents, Members of Parliament, Representatives of political parties, Diplomats, Healthcare administrators, Officials of the Ministry of Health, Vice Chancellors and Deans of medical faculties, Representatives of the Sri Lanka Medical Council, Sri Lanka Medical Association and Specialist medical colleges, Tri-forces officers, Legal professionals, Health & Non-Health trade union officials, Medical Specialists, Medical officers, Past office bearers and Trustees of the Association, Executive committee members, General committee members, Branch union officials and numerous other invitees.
A major highlight of the event was the launch of a special commemorative stamp and first day cover, issued in recognition of the GMOA’s century-long contribution to the nation. The Association also unveiled its revamped official website – www.gmoa.lk and ‘GMOA’ mobile application, marking a new chapter in its journey towards digital transformation and enhanced engagement with members and the public.
The celebrations further featured the launch of a special centenary theme song, dedicated to generations of Sri Lankan doctors whose commitment, sacrifice, and service have strengthened the nation’s healthcare system.
Throughout the event, speakers reflected on the historic role played by the GMOA over the past century. From advocating for the rights and welfare of medical proffesionals to defending and strengthening Sri Lanka’s free healthcare service and ensuring the quality of medical education, the Association has consistently remained at the forefront of efforts to improve healthcare delivery and protect public health. The contributions of generations of GMOA leaders and members in addressing national health challenges, influencing policy reforms, and ensuring equitable access to healthcare were acknowledged with deep appreciation.
As the GMOA enters its second century, the centenary celebrations served not only as a commemoration of a remarkable legacy but also as a reaffirmation of its enduring mission. Guided by the principles of professional excellence, social responsibility, democratic process and collective action, the Association remains committed to protecting the rights of medical professionals, strengthening the public health service, and continuing its unwavering service to the people of Sri Lanka.
For one hundred years, the GMOA has stood as a powerful voice for doctors and a steadfast defender of free healthcare. The centenary celebration was a fitting tribute to that legacy and a declaration of its commitment to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
