People’s Bank renovates Cardiothoracic Paediatric Ward at NHSL

Completing yet another significant step towards enhancing the healthcare infrastructure of Sri Lanka, People’s Bank proudly announces the completion and official opening of the newly renovated Cardiothoracic Paediatric Ward (Ward 1) at the National Hospital of Sri Lanka (NHSL), Colombo. 

This major refurbishment, costing over Rs. 8 million, was executed as a key initiative under the bank’s CSR brand ‘Mahajana Mehewara’. The event marked a significant milestone in the bank’s ongoing efforts to support and enhance the healthcare sector in Sri Lanka.

The inauguration ceremony of the newly renovated Cardiothoracic Paediatric Ward was held on 19 July with the presence of distinguished guests, including Health Ministry Secretary Dr. Palitha Mahipala, People’s Bank Chairman Sujeewa Rajapakse, People’s Bank CEO/GM Clive Fonseka, members of the Corporate And Executive Management of People’s Bank, NHSL Health Services Deputy Director General Dr. Kumara Wickramasingha, Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon Dr. M.N. Jazeel, Deputy Directors, several other healthcare professionals from the NHSL, and other key stakeholders. 

People’s Bank has a longstanding tradition of supporting the NHSL. In 1999, the bank donated the original Cardiothoracic Paediatric Ward to the NHSL, demonstrating its commitment to improving healthcare facilities. In view of the evolving needs of the hospital, the authorities had planned to relocate the Cardiothoracic Surgery Unit V to the previously donated Cardiothoracic Paediatric Ward (Ward 1) and reached out to People’s Bank for assistance to upgrade the ward to meet modern healthcare standards.

The Cardiothoracic Surgery Unit V is instrumental in providing critical healthcare services, including complex procedures such as bypass, valvular, and vascular surgeries. With increasing demand for these specialised services, it was essential that the facilities were equipped to offer exemplary patient care. Relocating Unit V to the Cardiothoracic Paediatric Ward is a strategic move to accommodate this growing demand.

Rajapakse expressed his pride in the bank’s contribution: “Through our CSR brand ‘Mahajana Mehewara,’ we are honoured to support the NHSL with this important renovation project. Our commitment to enhancing healthcare infrastructure is unwavering, and we believe this upgraded ward will significantly improve patient care and outcomes.”

Appreciating the bank’s commitment to uplift the community through this CSR initiative, Dr. Mahipala said: “While the Sri Lankan healthcare sector is providing an invaluable service to the nation, it requires the support of entities such as the People’s Bank to provide the resources required to maintain a quality service.” He also expressed gratitude for the swift manner in which the People’s Bank stepped up to serve the nation whenever a requirement arose.

Dr. Wickramasingha stated: “The refurbished Cardiothoracic Paediatric Ward will greatly enhance our ability to provide high-quality care to our patients. We are deeply grateful to the People’s Bank for their generous support and commitment to healthcare excellence.”

People’s Bank is one of Sri Lanka’s leading financial institutions, committed to fostering economic growth and supporting community development through various CSR initiatives. With a focus on sustainability and social responsibility, the bank continues to play a pivotal role in enhancing the lives of Sri Lankans across the country.