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Annual Session

SLCO Annual Academic Sessions & SAFO Congress 2026

“Improving Care. Enhancing Lives”

Nov 27 – 29, 2026

Shangri-La Colombo

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The Sri Lanka College of Oncologists (SLCO) in joint collaboration with The South Asian Federation of Oncologists (SAFO) proudly presents the Annual Academic Sessions & SAFO Congress 2026. This landmark 3-day regional oncology congress gathers distinguished international faculty, regional oncologists, surgical and radiation specialists, and trainees to deliberate on contemporary paradigms in precision radiation oncology, targeted systemic therapies, complex surgical interventions, cancer survivorship, and equitable healthcare delivery across South Asia. The congress features hands-on pre-congress workshops, interactive keynote and plenary addresses, multidisciplinary case-based discussions, research poster and oral presentations, and specialized breakfast academic seminars.

Welcome

Message from the President

Dear Esteemed Colleagues,

On behalf of the Sri Lanka College of Oncologists, it is my distinct honour to welcome you to the SLCO Annual Academic Sessions and the South Asian Federation of Oncologists (SAFO) Congress 2026.

This year, we gather under the guiding theme: Quality. Equity. Impact: Improving Care. Enhancing Lives. This theme truely reflect our steadfast commitment to ensuring that optimal, accessible, and life-changing oncological care reaches every patient across our region.

Our comprehensive scientific program is designed to be a premier platform for academic excellence and knowledge sharing. With multidisciplinary symposia, case-based discussions, and specialized sessions spanning the full spectrum of oncology. It is a space to engage with global thought leaders, showcase innovative research, and integrate the latest evidence-based practices into daily clinical pathways.

Beyond the scientific discourse, the SAFO Congress 2026 serves as a vital nexus for fostering meaningful collaborations. By bringing together the regional and global oncology communities, we aim to strengthen international partnerships, share cross-border insights, and collectively address the evolving challenges of cancer care in South Asia and beyond.

While you join us for this rigorous academic agenda, I also warmly invite you to experience the breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. From the vibrant streets of Colombo to our pristine coastlines, we hope you take the time to explore and enjoy the renowned warmth and hospitality of our island nation.

Please explore www.slco.lk to complete your registration, review the detailed agenda, and access further information regarding our faculty and pre-congress workshops.

We eagerly anticipate welcoming you to Colombo for an inspiring, transformative, and memorable congress.

Warm regards,

Dr Sanjeeva Gunasekera

President

Message from the Secretary

Dear Colleagues, Delegates, and Friends of the Oncology Community,

It is with great enthusiasm that I extend a warm welcome to you for the joint SLCO Annual Academic Sessions and the South Asian Federation of Oncologists (SAFO) Congress 2026, taking place from November 27th to 29th at the iconic Shangri-La, Colombo.

The organizing committee has worked tirelessly to curate a dynamic and comprehensive scientific program designed to bridge the gap between emerging oncological science and everyday clinical practice. A major highlight of this year's agenda includes three highly specialized pre-congress sessions, prominently featuring a dedicated Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT) congress organized in proud collaboration with BMT Sri Lanka.

We are excited to host a brilliant assembly of national and international experts alongside our passionate trainees and early-career practitioners. The joint nature of this year's SAFO congress presents an unparalleled environment for active knowledge sharing. We strongly encourage all attendees to utilize this platform to spark dialogue, forge cross-border collaborations, and establish multidisciplinary partnerships to tackle the unique cancer care challenges across South Asia and the wider global community.

As we prepare for a rigorous and deeply rewarding academic experience, we also look forward to extending our renowned Sri Lankan hospitality to ensure your time with us is both comfortable and memorable.

Please visit our official website at www.slco.lk to secure your registration, explore the detailed scientific schedule, and stay updated on all congress activities.

We look forward to hosting you for an engaging, fruitful, and truly unforgettable gathering in Colombo.

Dr Buddhika Somawardana

Secretary

Scientific Committee

Dr Sanjeeva Gunasekera

MBBS, MD, MRCPCH

Consultant Paediatric Oncologist at National Cancer Institute, Maharagama, heavily involved in national clinical guidelines and paediatric cancer control.

Dr Buddhika Somawardana

MBBS, MD

Dedicated clinician and educator specialised in the management of haematological malignancies, stem cell transplantation and advanced cellular therapies

Dr Nuradh Joseph

MBBS, MD, FRCR

Consultant clinical oncologist dedicated to evidence-based radiotherapy and modern regimens and comprehensive cancer care with extensive research and publication profile

Dr Vimukthini Peiris

MBBS, MD

Consultant clinical oncologist dedicated to integrating modern radiotherapy techniques and systemic oncology to deliver holistic patient-centred care

Dr Buddhika Thilakarathna

MBBS, MS, FRCS

Consultant Surgical Oncologist driving cancer surgery standards and multidisciplinary regional oncology care across the Sabaragamuwa Province.

Dr Sidath Wijesekara

MBBS, MD, FRCR

Consultant Clinical Oncologist focusing on systemic therapies, targeted clinical management, and precision irradiation in breast malignancies.

Dr Kelum Jayasinghe

MBBS, MD

Consultant Gynaecological Oncologist based at the National Cancer Institute Sri Lanka, dedicated to the precise surgical treatment of gynaecological cancers, focusing on fertility-sparing techniques and optimal, patient-centred outcomes

Dr Tiromi Rupasinghe

MBBS, MD

Consultant Clinical Oncologist with specialised practice in comprehensive multimodal care.

Venue

Shangri-La Colombo

Shangri-La Colombo

1 Galle Face, Colombo 02, Colombo, Sri Lanka

Overlooking the Indian Ocean and the historic Galle Face Green, Shangri-La Colombo offers world-class conference halls and hospitality for the SLCO Annual Scientific Sessions.

Getting There & Arrival

Located 35 km from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) via the Airport Expressway. Onsite valet and dedicated congress parking available.

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Event Contacts

Office- SLCO

+94771806433slconcology@gmail.com

Destination

Port City Colombo
Sightseeing

Port City Colombo

Discover Colombo’s emerging waterfront district, where modern urban design meets the Indian Ocean. Enjoy scenic promenades, open spaces and waterfront views while experiencing a new side of the city.

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Colombo Lotus Tower
Sightseeing

Colombo Lotus Tower

One of Colombo’s most recognizable modern landmarks, offering panoramic views across the city from its observation deck. A great option for delegates wanting to see Colombo from above.

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Gangaramaya Temple
Sightseeing

Gangaramaya Temple

One of Colombo’s best-known Buddhist temples and cultural landmarks. Gangaramaya combines religious heritage, architecture and Sri Lankan Buddhist culture in the heart of the city.

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Visa & Entry

Visa & Entry Guidelines for International Delegates

Overseas and SAARC delegates can obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online prior to arriving in Sri Lanka.

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