The Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science (SLAAS), the nation’s premier scientific body, ceremonially inducted Prof. Udeni P. Nawagamuwa as its 84th General President on January 7, 2025. The event, held at the historic Galle Face Hotel, celebrated SLAAS’s commitment to advancing science and technology in Sri Lanka since its inception in 1944.
In his inaugural address, Prof. Udeni P. Nawagamuwa highlighted the importance of “Empowering the Underprivileged through the Popularization of Science and Technology”. His vision for SLAAS emphasized using science and technology as tools to bridge socio-economic gaps and enhance the lives of marginalized communities across Sri Lanka. A distinguished academic and a gentleman of great character, Prof. Udeni P. Nawagamuwa is widely respected for his contributions to civil engineering and his unwavering dedication to advancing science in Sri Lanka. He holds a BSc in Civil Engineering from the University of Moratuwa, an MEng in Geotechnical Engineering from the Asian Institute of Technology in Thailand, and a Dr. Eng in Geotechnical Engineering from Yokohama National University, Japan. A Chartered Civil Engineer since 2008, Prof. Nawagamuwa has recently been appointed Head of the Civil Engineering Department at the University of Moratuwa. His leadership, expertise, and inspiring vision continue to set benchmarks in academia and professional excellence.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, including the Chief Guest, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, and the Guest of Honor, Prof. Gomika Udugamasuriya, Senior Advisor to the President on Science and Technology. Several past presidents of SLAAS, along with over ten thousand members representing a diverse range of scientific disciplines, attended the event.
Prof. Gomika Udugamasuriya delivered an inspiring message on the government’s upcoming initiative, the National Innovation and Research Development Council (NIRDC). He invited scientists from all fields to collaborate in this national endeavor, underscoring the critical role of research and innovation in driving the country’s progress.
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, in her keynote speech titled “Science is an Important Component of Children’s Education”, stressed the necessity of integrating scientific thinking into the education system from an early age. She affirmed the government’s commitment to fostering a culture of inquiry and innovation among the youth.
Founded in 1944 and incorporated by Act of Parliament No. 11 of 1966, SLAAS continues to serve as a vital platform for scientific discourse and development. With Prof. Nawagamuwa’s leadership, the association looks forward to a year of impactful initiatives that advance science and technology for the benefit of all Sri Lankans.
