National Engineering Research and Development Centre (NERDC) hosted the 2nd International Engineering Research Symposium (IERS) 2024 at the Lotus Tower in Colombo, Sri Lanka, transforming it into a hub of groundbreaking ideas and future-shaping discussions. This prestigious event marked a significant milestone in the history of NERDC, celebrating its 50th anniversary while focusing on “Engineering Innovations for Economic Transformation.”
A Storied Institution Celebrates a Golden Jubilee
Founded by an act of Parliament in 1974, NERDC has been at the forefront of engineering research and development in Sri Lanka. From its modest beginnings in the Industrial Development Board complex in Katubedda to its current facility in Ekala, Ja-Ela, the centre has evolved into a premier institution driving engineering innovation in the country.
The symposium, held at the Cosmic Hall of the Lotus Tower, featured a robust agenda designed to facilitate academic exchange and industry collaboration. It included paper presentations, panel discussions, networking opportunities, and an exhibition showcasing the latest innovations.
Platform for Innovation and Collaboration
This year’s symposium, conducted in partnership with DIGIECON 2030—a government initiative aimed at accelerating Sri Lanka’s digital economy—provided a platform for academics, researchers, industry experts, and students to converge and explore cutting-edge engineering solutions. DIGIECON 2030, spearheaded by the Ministry of Technology and endorsed by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, focuses on leveraging advanced technology to foster a digital ecosystem and drive economic growth.
Keynote and Panels – Shaping the Future of Engineering
The symposium commenced with an inspiring keynote address by Professor Ajith De Alwis, Senior Professor of Chemical and Process Engineering at the University of Moratuwa. His speech underscored the role of engineering in shaping a sustainable and economically vibrant future.
Following the keynote, a panel discussion delved into critical issues and emerging trends in engineering. The esteemed panelists included:
– Professor Ranjith Dissanayake, President of the Institution of Engineers Sri Lanka, Professor at Curtin Colombo, and former Senior Professor in Civil Engineering at the University of Peradeniya.
– Professor HKG Punchihewa, a leading academic from the University of Moratuwa and former Head of the Department of Mechanical Engineering.
– Mr. Heminda Jayaweera, Executive Director of TRACE Sri Lanka Graphic and Co-Founder and Director of 3H Innovations.
The panel discussion was expertly moderated by Dr. Ranga Rodrigo, Senior Lecturer at the University of Moratuwa and former Head of the Department of Electronic and Telecommunication Engineering.
Research Excellence and Future Prospects
IERS 2024 saw a total of 70 submissions, of which 55 were accepted for publication after a rigorous peer review process. The accepted papers were organized into four distinct tracks:
– Civil/Material and Manufacturing Engineering
– Electrical/Electronics/IT and Computer Engineering
– Energy/Environmental and Waste Management Engineering
– Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering
The selected leading papers from the symposium will be published by Springer Nature as part of the Proceedings in Technology Transfer series, with additional papers featured in the IERS proceedings and the Sri Lanka Science Index database.
Vision for the Future
During the opening remarks, NERDC Chairman Professor Upali Adikary reflected on the centre’s rich history and its role in transforming engineering research in Sri Lanka. He emphasized the potential of engineering to drive global change and shared anecdotes from NERDC’s early days.
Director General Dr. Jayathu Samarawickrama highlighted NERDC’s successes over the past five decades and unveiled future plans, including the launch of innovative gasoline and electric three-wheelers. He also spoke about fostering a research culture in collaboration with Sri Lankan universities, a sentiment echoed by State Minister of Higher Education Suren Rāghavan, who praised the initiative as a crucial step in preventing the brain drain of talented students, during his address to the gathering.
The 2nd International Engineering Research Symposium 2024 not only celebrated NERDC’s 50-year legacy but also showcased the vibrant future of engineering in Sri Lanka. By bringing together thought leaders, researchers, and innovators, the symposium reinforced the pivotal role of engineering in economic transformation and set the stage for future advancements in technology and research.
