A Founding Visionary of SLDTIS
On October 21, 2008, a historic moment unfolded in Sri Lanka's dental technology sector when Mr. Ajith Pathirana Withanage, alongside Mr. Neil Gunarathna, founded the Samastha Lanka Dental Technologists Intersociety (SLDTIS). This milestone came just weeks after the Private Health Services Regulatory Council's call for formal regulation of dental technicians on October 2, 2008—a challenge that required collective action rather than individual response.
As Secretary of SLDTIS, Ajith has been instrumental in building an organization that serves not just as a professional body, but as a unified community where dental technologists support each other, share knowledge, and collectively elevate industry standards. His leadership reflects a deep commitment to ensuring every member has access to resources, training, and opportunities for professional growth.
Excellence Through Continuous Learning
"Excellence in dental technology requires not just technical skill, but dedication to continuous learning and improvement," states Ajith. "Our mission is to ensure every member has access to the resources and knowledge they need to excel in their profession." This philosophy has shaped SLDTIS's approach to professional development, resulting in comprehensive training programs, workshops, and certification opportunities.
Under his guidance as Secretary, SLDTIS has achieved remarkable milestones including the groundbreaking collaboration with the University of Peradeniya to establish specialized courses designed specifically for dental technologists. This partnership represents a significant advancement in formalizing education and raising professional standards across Sri Lanka.
Building a United Professional Community
The founding vision of SLDTIS emerged from a clear need: dental technicians across Sri Lanka required a unified voice and support system to navigate the evolving regulatory landscape. What began as a response to immediate challenges has grown into a respected national body that strengthens the entire dental technology field through education, advocacy, and professional support.
Organizational Leadership & Impact
As Secretary, Ajith's responsibilities extend far beyond administrative duties. He ensures:
- Transparent Communication: Maintaining clear channels between leadership and members across all regions
- Educational Access: Coordinating training programs, workshops, and certification opportunities
- Professional Development: Creating pathways for members to advance their skills and careers
- Regulatory Compliance: Guiding members through evolving healthcare regulations and standards
- Community Building: Fostering connections and knowledge-sharing among dental technologists nationwide
- Quality Standards: Promoting excellence in dental technology practices across the industry
Registration & Professional Standing
Ajith holds professional registration CP-003 | OMI 50 | NWP, reflecting his standing within the organized dental technology community. His registration demonstrates compliance with professional standards and commitment to maintaining the highest levels of practice.
Core Values & Vision
The foundation of SLDTIS, guided by Ajith and his co-founders, rests on seven core values:
- Professionalism: Upholding the highest standards in all aspects of dental technology
- Unity: Bringing together technologists from across Sri Lanka under one community
- Trust: Building confidence through transparency and ethical practice
- Innovation: Embracing new technologies and methodologies
- Education: Prioritizing continuous learning and skill development
- Quality: Maintaining excellence in all work and services
- Service: Supporting both fellow technologists and patients in need
From Challenge to Achievement
When the Private Health Services Regulatory Council issued its call for dental technician regulation in October 2008, individual practitioners faced uncertainty about how to respond effectively. Ajith and his co-founders recognized that collective action would be more powerful than isolated efforts. Their decision to unite dental technologists under SLDTIS proved transformative.
Major Organizational Achievements
Since its founding, SLDTIS has accomplished significant milestones under Ajith's secretarial leadership:
- University Partnership: Collaboration with University of Peradeniya for specialized dental technology courses
- National Recognition: Establishment as a respected professional body representing dental technologists
- Training Programs: Comprehensive workshops and certification opportunities for members
- Professional Standards: Development and promotion of quality benchmarks across the industry
- Community Support: Creation of networks for knowledge-sharing and mutual assistance
- Regulatory Navigation: Guidance for members through healthcare compliance requirements
Supporting the Profession & Community
Ajith's leadership extends beyond organizational management to genuine service—both to fellow dental technologists and to the patients they ultimately serve. SLDTIS's commitment includes special focus on providing high-quality dentures to those in need, demonstrating how professional excellence translates into community benefit.
Financial Transparency & Sustainability
While serving as Secretary, Ajith works closely with other executive members to ensure the organization's resources are managed wisely. This commitment to financial sustainability ensures SLDTIS can continue providing valuable services and support to members for years to come, maintaining the long-term viability of the organization.
The Journey Forward
From its founding in 2008 to today, SLDTIS's journey reflects the dedication of its leadership to advancing dental technology in Sri Lanka. Ajith's role as Secretary ensures the organization remains focused on its mission: uniting dental technologists, providing professional support, and elevating industry standards.
Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Ajith continues to champion initiatives that will strengthen the dental technology profession in Sri Lanka. This includes expanding educational opportunities, fostering greater collaboration within the industry, maintaining high quality standards, and ensuring every dental technologist has access to the resources needed for professional excellence.
Through dedication, collaborative leadership, and unwavering commitment to professional development, Ajith Pathirana Withanage exemplifies the founding spirit of SLDTIS—bringing people together, supporting collective growth, and showcasing the excellence of Sri Lanka's dental technology sector on a national stage.
Contact Information
For inquiries related to SLDTIS membership, training programs, or professional development opportunities, members can reach out through official SLDTIS channels. As Secretary, Ajith maintains open communication with members across all regions of Sri Lanka, ensuring accessibility and support for the dental technology community.
