We are pleased to introduce the 21^st batch graduating from the Department of Building Economics. We also take this opportunity to welcome all fifty-two new members to our ever growing community and to wish them every success in their professional career.

If you would like to get in touch with these graduates please feel free to write to us through the Contact Us page in this website.

The island of Sri Lanka lies in the Indian Ocean, to the southwest of the Bay of Bengal and to the southeast of the Arabian Sea. This tropical island, famous for the production and export of tea, coffee, rubber and exotic spices, was known by many names in the past. It was Tambapanni to Emperor Asoka of India, Taprobane to the Greeks and Romans, Serendib to the Arabs, Ceilao to the Portuguese, Ceylaan to the Dutch, Ceylan to the French and Ceylon to the British.

Sri Lanka is a tourist paradise with an abundance of attractions like the lovely beaches, beautiful landscapes, scenic lagoons, fertile wetlands, ecological forests, imposing mountains, bounteous rivers and waterfalls, an abundance of wildlife, inspiring heritage sites from ancient cities to colonial forts, exquisite handicrafts, world renowned gems, traditional dance and drama, colourful festivals, a vibrant culture, charming people and not forgetting the mouth watering Sri Lankan cuisine.

Our members in the United Arab Emirates gathered at the Flamingo Beach Resort, Umm Al Quwain, UAE on 29th May 2009 for an adventurous summer day. The evening was well attended and well exceeded the expectations of the organisers.

The evening was full of entertainment for adults as well as kids. All participants enjoyed the evening taking boat rides, swimming, playing volleyball, participating in tug of war and many other native games, singing and dancing. Kids too enjoyed the evening watching magic show, swimming and participating in many native games.

We appreciate the enthusiasm shown by our members during this adverse economic condition. We would like to thank all members and their families for their presence amid economic turmoil, summer heat, examinations and so forth.

We would also like to thank the organisers of the event who worked tirelessly round the clock to make this event a reality.

Founder of the Department of Building Economics

By Lakshman Ramanayake MSc, BSc(QS)Hons, MRICS and Kapila Ranatunga MSc, BSc(QS)Hons, MRICS

Late Professor H.P.S. Caldera was the first head of Department of Building Economics at the University of Moratuwa as well as the founder President of Institute of Quantity Surveyors, Sri Lanka. He was an internationally recognised Building Economist and Educationalist. However, he is being perhaps most remembered by the construction industry by his roles as a Chartered Arbitrator, an Expert Witness and a Consultant.