Dr. Amal Fernando

Message from the President of the Organizing Committee

Welcome Message

Dear Colleagues,

It is my great pleasure to warmly welcome you to the 14th SAARC ENT Congress, to be held from 4th–6th September 2026 in Colombo, Sri Lanka, and hosted by the College of Otorhinolaryngologists and Head & Neck Surgeons of Sri Lanka. Despite many challenges over the years, the SAARC ENT Congress has continued uninterrupted across member nations. This year marks the third occasion that Sri Lanka has the honour of hosting this prestigious meeting, following two highly successful congresses in 2004 and 2014.

This gathering will be a valuable opportunity not only to acquire and share knowledge and skills, but also to present and discuss your research, audits, and innovations. Equally important, it will serve as a forum to reconnect with colleagues across borders, bridge differences, and strengthen professional and personal bonds.

The South Asian region—home to nearly a quarter of the world's population—shares many common challenges that extend beyond ENT surgery into economic, cultural, and political spheres. We carry a high disease burden, possess a wealth of clinical experience, yet face limitations in resources and inequalities in healthcare delivery. It is therefore essential that we work together to develop shared strategies that will allow us to optimize the use of our collective resources for the greatest possible benefit.

With our theme, Sri Lanka offers the ideal setting for us to gather, set aside differences, and engage in meaningful scientific dialogue aimed at shaping a better tomorrow. We look forward to welcoming eminent colleagues from across the region and around the world, who will enrich our congress with their expertise, experience, and insights.

As always, Sri Lanka—renowned for its warmth and hospitality—will ensure that your stay is both enjoyable and memorable. Beyond the scientific sessions, there is much to explore and experience in our island paradise.

We look forward to welcoming you to Colombo in 2026.

Dr. Amal Fernando

Organizing President

College of Otorhinolaryngologists and Head & Neck Surgeons of Sri Lanka