Global Hub for Sustainable Development and Medway Hospitals Drive Health, Wellbeing, and Tourism Initiatives

Global Hub for Sustainable Development recently joined hands with Medway Hospitals Group, Chennai, to organize a landmark awareness program focused on promoting "Good Health and Wellbeing for All" as part of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2030. Held in collaboration with EPICK Holdings (Pvt) Ltd., the event underscored the importance of sustainable health practices and explored the potential for cross-border medical and eco-tourism between India and Sri Lanka.

The event attracted a diverse audience of business leaders, healthcare professionals, and community representatives. Among the notable attendees were Jakath Dissanayaka, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Central Province; Mr. Passan Chandrasekhar, President of Lanka Business Ring; and Mrs. Kanthi Madagammana, President of the Women's Chamber of Central Province. Shafraz Akbar, Managing Director of EPICK Holdings (Pvt) Ltd.; Nazar Mohiden from Skyhub Network (Pvt) Ltd.; Nuwan Gunarathne, Secretary of Global Hub; and Executive Committee members of Global Hub also joined the gathering, showcasing a strong commitment to fostering partnerships for health and sustainability.

The program featured key speakers M.S.A. Muneer, Vice President of Global Hub for Sustainable Development, and Mr. Venkata Phanidhar, CEO of Medway Hospitals Group, India. They underscored the significance of corporate-driven health initiatives aligned with SDG 3, which is dedicated to ensuring healthy lives and promoting wellbeing for all. Their insights laid the groundwork for discussions on the role of businesses in supporting health initiatives and sustainable tourism.

In his address, M.S.A. Muneer highlighted the importance of a holistic approach to health and wellness within corporate social responsibility. "The growth of medical tourism will not only strengthen economic ties between our countries but will also promote healthcare accessibility and sustainability,” he noted. He also emphasized the potential for eco-tourism, where both nations could offer rich, sustainable travel experiences that support natural resource conservation.

Mr. Venkata Phanidhar, CEO of Medway Hospitals, echoed these sentiments, stating, "Medway Hospitals is honored to partner with Global Hub for Sustainable Development as we work to bring quality healthcare to new regions and advance sustainable practices in medical tourism." He spoke on how Medway’s healthcare expertise, paired with Sri Lanka’s appeal as a healthcare destination, could help position both nations as leaders in sustainable tourism sectors.

The discussions delved into how businesses can actively support community health, workplace wellness, and preventive healthcare initiatives. Participants explored the concept of eco-tourism, emphasizing the dual benefits of environmental conservation and sustainable business models. Medical tourism was a focal point, with speakers highlighting how leveraging healthcare expertise and tourism infrastructure can strengthen cross-border ties while providing accessible, quality healthcare to international patients.

The event underscores Global Hub for Sustainable Development’s dedication to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals through impactful partnerships that integrate health, sustainability, and tourism. With this successful initiative, both Sri Lanka and India are positioned as leaders in sustainable healthcare and eco-tourism, working towards a healthier, more prosperous future for the region.