Welcome to NBTS

(National Blood Transfusion Service)

Sri Lanka

PRAANA (SLSCDR)

You Can Get Involved

You can now join hands with us to help patients by donating Whole Blood, Apheresis Platelets, Stem Cells or Hosting a Blood Donation Campaign

🚑 Click to Find the Nearest Blood Bank
Become a Blood Donor
Become a Platelet Donor
Become a Stem Cell Donor
Host a Blood Drive

Notifications

ℹ️ Join Praana : Save Lives by Becoming a Stem Cell Donor
The Sri Lanka Stem Cell Donor Registry (SLSCDR), initiated by the NBTS, is a nationwide effort to recruit potential stem cell donors. Launched on July 14th, 2024, the registry has since recruited donors both online and through NBTS’s blood donation campaigns.
ℹ️ NBTS Re-designated as WHO CC
National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) Sri Lanka has been redesignated as a WHO Collaborating Centre (CC) for Blood Transfusion Services for another 3 years, starting from 7th September 2024.
ℹ️ NBTS Sri Lanka Receives AABB Quality Certificate
National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) Sri Lanka has successfully been awarded the prestigious AABB Quality Certificate, effective from August 2024 to August 2026.
📘 Blood Donation Invitation
Eligible donors are encouraged to visit the nearest blood bank and donate blood at their convenience. 🕗 NBC (Narahenpita): 8.00 am – 6.00 pm 🕓 Other Blood Banks: 8.00 am – 4.00 pm
ℹ️ Join Praana : Save Lives by Becoming a Stem Cell Donor
The Sri Lanka Stem Cell Donor Registry (SLSCDR), initiated by the NBTS, is a nationwide effort to recruit potential stem cell donors. Launched on July 14th, 2024, the registry has since recruited donors both online and through NBTS’s blood donation campaigns.
ℹ️ NBTS Re-designated as WHO CC
National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) Sri Lanka has been redesignated as a WHO Collaborating Centre (CC) for Blood Transfusion Services for another 3 years, starting from 7th September 2024.
ℹ️ NBTS Sri Lanka Receives AABB Quality Certificate
National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) Sri Lanka has successfully been awarded the prestigious AABB Quality Certificate, effective from August 2024 to August 2026.
📘 Blood Donation Invitation
Eligible donors are encouraged to visit the nearest blood bank and donate blood at their convenience. 🕗 NBC (Narahenpita): 8.00 am – 6.00 pm 🕓 Other Blood Banks: 8.00 am – 4.00 pm

Organizing a blood donation campaign

We are committed to making quality blood available for patients throughout the year. To support this goal, we organize local and national campaigns that promote voluntary blood donation. Today, 85% of the island-wide blood supply is collected through mobile blood donation campaigns.

Learn More

Today’s Mobile
Blood Donation Campaigns

Here you can find mobile blood donation campaigns that are organized all around the Island.

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Mobile blood donation campaigns may be cancelled or rescheduled at short notice.

📅 Date🩸 Name🏥 Venue🏢 Blood Bank
June 4, 2025 Brandix Apparel Avissawella Brandix Apparel Avissawella NBC
June 4, 2025 Sampath IT - Colombo 03 Sampath IT - Colombo 03 NBC
June 4, 2025 ATI- Trincomalee ATI TRINCOMALEE Trincomalee
June 4, 2025 THITHTHAWELLA TEMPLE - SARAGAMA THITHTHAWELLA Kurunegala
June 4, 2025 COMMUNITY HALL RIDEEPANA BADULLA COMMUNITY HALL RIDEEPANA BADULLA Badulla
📅 Date🩸 Name🏥 Venue🏢 Blood Bank
June 4, 2025 MUDITHA PRE - SCHOOL BIBILE MUDITHA PRE - SCHOOL BIBILE Monaragala

We Believe In

Proper Education and Quality Knowledge

Education, Training and Research Unit (ETRU)

The Education, Training, and Research Unit (ETRU) of the National Blood Center (NBC) plays a crucial role in enhancing the knowledge, skills, and professional competencies of blood bank personnel across the country. Committed to upholding high standards in Transfusion Medicine, the ETRU facilitates Continuous Professional Development, in-service training, and research initiatives that contribute to the overall improvement of National Blood Transfusion Service.

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Our Vision

“To be a unique for the world, securing quality assured blood services through a nationally coordinated system”

TOP OFFICIALS
Director1
Dr. Lakshman Edirisinghe
Director
TOP OFFICIALS
drjayasekara1
Dr. Senarath Jayasekara
Senior Consultant

Our Mission

“To ensure the quality, safety, adequacy and cost effectiveness of the blood supply and related laboratory, clinical, academic and research services in accordance with national requirements and WHO recommendations” 

Events & News
May 1, 2025The National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) successfully conducted a one-hour online webinar on Quality Management Systems (QMS), led by Dr. Namal Bandara. Delivered bilingually in both Sinhala and English, the session aimed to build foundational knowledge on QMS practices among blood bank staff as part of NBTS’s long-term strategy to achieve Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) accreditation. A total of 185 participants joined the session, representing a diverse cross-section of healthcare professionals: Clinical Transfusion Practitioners (11), Medical Officers (109), Nursing Officers (39), Medical Laboratory Technologists (22), Junior Staff (3), and a Public Health Inspector (1). The webinar provided an overview of the essential components of a QMS specifically tailored for blood bank operations. Dr. Bandara highlighted the importance of implementing QMS to ensure the safety, reliability, and quality of blood and blood products. Key topics included Quality System Essentials (QSEs), regulatory compliance, effective documentation and record-keeping, internal audits, and the importance of continuous improvement. Participants were also introduced to the structural elements of a QMS, such as quality policies, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and clearly defined staff responsibilities at various operational levels. The online program was accredited by the Education, Training and Research Unit (ETRU) of the Ministry of Health and provided Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points for participants, further emphasizing its value and recognition within the healthcare sector. This educational initiative marks a significant step forward in enhancing quality standards and aligning blood transfusion services with international best practices. [...] Read more...
April 29, 2025The Education, Training, and Research Unit (ETRU) of the National Blood Center successfully conducted a Continuous Medical Education (CME) program titled “Capacity Building for Blood Donation Teams – Safe Blood Practices in Transfusion Service” for the Matara and Hambantota clusters on April 25, 2025. Held at the National Blood Center Auditorium, the program brought together medical professionals and experts to strengthen the skills and knowledge of blood donation teams. This program was a vital step toward enhancing safe blood collection practices and promoting excellence in blood donation services across the region. [...] Read more...
March 27, 2025The National Blood Centre (NBC) remains committed to fostering workplace well-being through its ongoing Mindfulness Program, conducted monthly under the patronage of Ven. Matara Wimalabuddhi Thero. This initiative aims to cultivate mindfulness among blood bank professionals, enhancing focus, accuracy, and efficiency in their daily responsibilities. The 16th session of the program was successfully held on March 24, 2025, drawing enthusiastic participation from staff representing the Colombo, Maharagama, Ragama, and Gampaha Cluster Blood Banks. The session featured a special lecture by Dr. Randula Samarasinghe (Consultant Physician – Dr. Neville Fernando Teaching Hospital), who provided valuable insights into the medical aspects of mindfulness, including its impact on health and stress management. Additionally, Dr. Lakshman Edirisinghe, Director of the National Blood Transfusion Service, delivered a lecture on the role of mindfulness in daily life, emphasizing its benefits for emotional resilience, well-being, and overall quality of life. Benefits of Mindfulness in Blood Banking Mindfulness plays a crucial role in ensuring safety and efficiency in blood banking, offering several key advantages: Prevents Errors – Enhances attention to detail, reducing mistakes in critical procedures. Improves Patient Safety – Ensures precise handling of blood products and patient care. Reduces Stress and Fatigue – Helps staff manage workplace pressure effectively. Enhances Communication – Promotes better teamwork and collaboration. Boosts Efficiency and Productivity – Increases focus and work performance. Fosters Compassion and Ethical Practice – Encourages a patient-centered approach in blood banking. As the Mindfulness Program continues, the National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) remains dedicated to promoting mental well-being and professional excellence within the blood banking community. [...] Read more...
March 10, 2025The National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) successfully conducted the Workshop on Health Information Systems & Distribution of IT Hardware on March 07, 2025, at the National Blood Centre, Narahenpita. The event saw the participation of over 200 healthcare professionals, including Consultant Transfusion Physicians (CTPs), Medical Officers In Charge (MOICs), and Nursing Officers In Charge (NOICs) from blood banks across the country. Key Highlights of the Workshop Comprehensive Review of Information SystemsThe workshop began with a detailed review of NBTS information systems, including BBMS, Haemovigilance, Statistics, Swastha, and Praana (SLSCDR). Evaluated system performance at the cluster and blood bank levels, identifying key implementation challenges such as: Lack of IT hardware Connectivity issues Shortage of trained staff Need for further training Additionally, the best-performing Blood Banks were recognized and appreciated for their outstanding contributions, with discussions on the key factors driving their success. NBTS Future Plans & VisionThe Director of NBTS provided a strategic overview, summarizing the objectives of the workshop and outlining NBTS’s current and future initiatives. Special emphasis was given to the goal of upgrading NBTS to one of the leading Transfusion Services in the region as a WHO Collaborating Centre. Training on BBMS New Features & SLSCDR Data EntryA teaching session on the new features of the Blood Bank Management System (BBMS) and Stem Cell Donor Registry (SLSCDR) data entry was conducted. Participants actively engaged in Q&A sessions, addressing queries and gaining hands-on experience with system enhancements. Distribution of IT Hardware to Blood BanksTo support the implementation of health information systems, essential IT hardware was distributed among blood banks under NBTS, including: Laptops Desktops Barcode readers Printers This initiative aims to enhance digital record-keeping, streamline workflows, and improve service efficiency across all blood banks. The NBTS extends its gratitude to all participants for their active involvement in making this event a success. With continuous improvements in IT infrastructure and system capabilities, NBTS is committed to ensuring high-quality blood transfusion services nationwide. [...] Read more...
March 7, 2025An insightful educational session on Sensitivity and Specificity was conducted on 11 February 2025, aimed at enhancing the diagnostic understanding and technical proficiency of Medical Laboratory Technologists (MLTs) and Medical Officers. The session focused on the critical role these concepts play in ensuring accuracy and effectiveness in blood transfusion practices. We were honoured to have Mr. Kazem M. ElJarkas, EMEAP Transfusion Application Specialist, as the special invitee and keynote speaker. His in-depth expertise and practical insights into the application of Abbott systems added immense value to the session. Participants gained a deeper understanding of test performance metrics and how the correct application of sensitivity and specificity principles directly impacts patient safety and clinical outcomes. This initiative reflects our continued commitment to upskilling healthcare professionals and strengthening transfusion practices through education and advanced technology.   [...] Read more...
January 12, 2025The National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) is proud to announce the release of its 2025 E-Calendar. This thoughtfully designed calendar celebrates the dedication of blood donors who selflessly help save lives every day. It’s more than just a calendar—it’s a symbol of compassion and a call to action for everyone to support the life-saving mission of NBTS. Each month of the calendar features an inspiring message about the importance of blood donation. Themes such as “Safe Blood Saves Lives” and “Give the Gift of Life: Donate Blood” serve as gentle reminders of how simple acts of kindness, like donating blood, can have a profound impact on patients in need. Using this calendar can be a great way to spread awareness about the importance of blood donation. Whether you share it with friends and family or simply keep it on your devices, it acts as a conversation starter and a motivational tool for encouraging more people to donate blood regularly. NBTS extends its heartfelt thanks to all voluntary blood donors for their dedication and support. Your generosity ensures that patients receive the critical care they need and helps us maintain a stable and safe blood supply across Sri Lanka. Click on Here to Download the NBTS 2025 E-Calendar [...] Read more...
October 17, 2024The Sri Lanka Stem Cell Donor Registry (SLSCDR), initiated by the National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) under the Ministry of Health, is a nationwide effort to recruit potential stem cell donors. Launched during World Blood Donor Day on July 14th, 2024, the registry has since recruited donors both online and through NBTS’s blood donation campaigns.   On October 13th, 2024, SLSCDR was rebranded as Praana in collaboration with the Sri Lanka College of Transfusion Physicians and Manusath Derena to increase awareness and expand donor recruitment island-wide. This initiative provides a life-saving opportunity for patients with blood disorders and cancers in need of stem cell transplants. To learn more or to become a stem cell donor, Web : www.praana.lk Tel : +94 112 369 968 Email: slscdregistry@gmail.com Address : Sri Lanka Stem Cell Donor Registry (SLSCDR),National Blood Centre,555/5D, Elvitigala Mw, Narahenpita, Colombo 05, Sri Lanka.   [...] Read more...
September 10, 2024We are proud to announce that the National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) Sri Lanka has been redesignated as a WHO Collaborating Centre (CC) for Blood Transfusion Services for another 3 years, starting from 7th September 2024. This recognition reaffirms the NBTS’s commitment to upholding international standards and advancing the quality, safety, and accessibility of blood transfusion services in Sri Lanka and the region. The redesignation by the World Health Organization (WHO) reflects our continuous efforts to meet the growing healthcare needs of the community, while fostering global collaboration to ensure safe blood transfusion practices. We look forward to further strengthening our capabilities and expanding our role in supporting countries across the region. The NBTS has played a pivotal role as a WHO Collaborating Centre since its initial designation, contributing significantly to the development of sustainable blood transfusion systems and best practices. This new phase of our collaboration will focus on enhancing blood safety, promoting voluntary blood donation, and improving blood service infrastructures. [...] Read more...
August 30, 2024We are proud to announce that the National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) Sri Lanka has successfully been awarded the prestigious AABB Quality Certificate, effective from August 2024 to August 2026. This certification is a testament to NBTS’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards in blood transfusion services, ensuring the safety and quality of blood and blood products provided to the public. The AABB (Association for the Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies) certification represents international recognition of our adherence to stringent quality management protocols in the field of transfusion medicine. It acknowledges the dedication of our staff and the continued efforts to meet global standards, promoting patient safety and improving transfusion outcomes. Receiving the AABB Quality Certificate strengthens NBTS’s role as a leader in transfusion medicine, not only in Sri Lanka but also in the South-East Asia region. This achievement reflects our continuous drive toward excellence and innovation, ensuring the highest quality in every step of blood collection, processing, testing, and distribution. The NBTS remains committed to further advancing its services, contributing to the safety and well-being of patients while aligning with global healthcare standards. We extend our gratitude to all stakeholders who have supported us in this journey, and we look forward to continuing our service with unwavering dedication. [...] Read more...
July 16, 2024The WHO World Blood Donor Day campaign theme for 2024 is “20 Years of Celebrating Giving, Thank You Blood Donors!”. The campaign theme of NBTS Sri Lanka for this year’s World Blood Donor Day is, “Walk in to save lives”, with the aim of increasing the in-house donations, improving safety of blood donors and quality of blood & blood products. The idea is to focus on the contribution an individual donor can make to improve health for others in the community. Blood donations are needed all over the world to ensure individuals and communities have access to safe and quality-assured blood and blood products in both normal and emergency situations. Through the campaign, we call on more people all over the country to become life-savers by volunteering to donate blood regularly at blood banks. NBTS has planned the following to meet the Global objectives as declared by the WHO. National Event Held at Nelum Pokuna Theatre – June 14th 2024 The national event for the World Bood Donor day was held with the patronage of Hon Speaker of the parliament Mr. Mahinda Yapa Abeywardana, Hon Minister of Health Dr. Ramesh Pathirana, Hon State Minister of Health Dr. Seetha Arambepola and several other key ministerial dignitaries. One thousand (1000) donors and donation campaign organizers representing all cluster centers throughout the country, were felicitated on that day. The main purpose of the event was to officially initiate the Sri Lanka Bone Marrow Transplantation Registry as well as to launch the “Raktha” mobile application for Donors. A special award was presented to the artist who designed a unique poster for the National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) in 1992. This poster has been utilized for over 30 years to raise public awareness about mobile blood drives. All participants were granted a souvenir, certificate, and plaque. A memorable photograph was also provided to each participant. Media Campaign In conjunction with World Blood Donor Day 2024, the National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) conducted a media campaign, including a press conference at the National Blood Center. All electronic and print media contributed to the awareness program by allocating time slots from their valuable broadcast schedules. We have developed two short videos aimed at raising public awareness about the importance of voluntary blood donation and stem cell donation. Educational Program for School Children School children are potential future donors. Through education and proper guidance, we can make them voluntary, regular blood donors upon completion of 18 years of age. NBTS has planned educational programs in schools throughout the country by means of lectures, discussions, dramas and booklets. Donor Felicitation In addition to the One thousand (1000) donors felicitated during the National Event, four thousand (4000) voluntary blood donors will be felicitated across the country at the Cluster Centers. Especially those who contributed to maintain the blood supply during the year 2023. Organizer Awareness Program 85% of the blood collection is done via mobile blood donation campaigns. Around five thousand (5000) campaigns are done annually. NBTS has planned to raise the awareness among the Organizers throughout the country and it will be done once a month prior to their respective mobile campaigns. Donor Care Program It is vital to be in good health to become a regular blood donor. NBTS initiated a program to screen the blood donors for non-communicable diseases few years back.   Staff Training To maintain a quality and an equitable service it is necessary to have a well-trained staff. They should be assessed periodically and retrained if required. This has been one from the onset of NBTS and it will be continued in the years to come. We have planned to organize twenty (20) training sessions for staff members of all blood banks in the country. Hospital Transfusion Committee Meetings (HTC meetings) It is vital to hold HTC meetings in Hospital blood banks to maintain a good understanding and a good communication between the wards and the blood bank. It helps to provide a better and a quality service to patients in need of blood and blood products. NBTS is planning to hold 100 HTC meetings to cover all the peripheral hospital blood banks during the coming year 2024/2025. Click here for Image Gallery [...] Read more...

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ABOUT US

The National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS), under the Ministry of Health, Sri Lanka, is a centrally coordinated system. It serves as the sole provider of blood and blood products to all government hospitals and most private hospitals. Headquartered at the National Blood Centre (NBC) in Colombo, NBTS operates more than 108 blood banks island-wide.

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Address :

National Blood Center,
No. 555/5D, Elvitigala Mawatha, Narahenpita, Colombo 05, Sri Lanka.

Telephone : +94112369931 – 4

Fax  : +94112369939

Email : info@nbts.health.gov.lk

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