Sustainable Solutions Essential for Disaster Resilience
Deputy Minister of Defence
February 27, 2025
The government is committed to implementing sustainable strategies and measures to enhance disaster resilience, emphasized Deputy Minister of Defence Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd) on February 25 as the Chief Guest of the 14th Annual Research Symposium 2024 held at the Grand Monarch, Thalawathugoda.
Addressing the inauguration ceremony of the symposium organized by the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO), he underscored the importance of integrating digital solutions and innovative initiatives to effectively tackle disaster-related challenges.
Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) graced the event as the Guest of Honour and this year’s symposium revolved around the theme "Smart Solutions for Built Environment Resilience."
The symposium commenced with a welcome address by NBRO’s Director General, Eng. (Dr.) Asiri Karunawardene, followed by a guest speech from Mr. Yamada Tetsuya, Chief Representative of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Sri Lanka Office.
Special launches and demonstrations showcasing innovations aligned with the symposium's theme also took place, further reinforcing the government's commitment to fostering a safer and more sustainable built environment.
The keynote address, delivered by Mr. Ajith Abesekara, Deputy Secretary to the Treasury, Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, focused on “Built-Environment Resilience and Economic Prosperity.”
NBRO’s annual research symposium serves as a platform to showcase its latest research and development initiatives while also recognizing outstanding contributions in the field. During the event, winners of last year’s research projects were honoured for their achievements.
The symposium featured a panel discussion on "Smart Solutions for Built Environment Resilience," moderated by Prof. Udeni Nawagamuwa, Head of the Civil Engineering Department at the University of Moratuwa. Additionally, three technical sessions were held, where experts presented various research findings related to disaster resilience.
The event brought together a diverse audience, including representatives from public and private sector institutions, academia, professional bodies, international and regional partner agencies and distinguished experts in related disciplines.
