He graduated with honors in medicine from the University of the West Indies, earning a gold medal, and later completed advanced surgical training in Edinburgh, United Kingdom. He is a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, the International College of Surgeons, and the American College of Surgeons.

Over the course of his career, Dr. Ariyanayagam has combined clinical practice with academic leadership. He served as a full-time faculty member at the University of the West Indies for 15 years, helping to train and mentor future physicians. In addition to his work in education, he is a founding partner of St. Augustine Private Hospital, where he has also served as chairman of the board, contributing to the development and growth of healthcare services in Trinidad.

Outside of medicine, he values balance and community involvement. He enjoys boating and is a member of the Trinidad and Tobago Yacht Club. He is also engaged in philanthropy through organizations such as the Rotary Club and the Bout Malatrese Parish Foundation.