The new Faculty of Technology of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura (USJ), was ceremoniously inaugurated on 08 June 2020 by Hon. Mahinda Rajapaksa, Prime Minister of Sri Lanka. This new complex is part of a large education and technology zone in Pitipana that includes the NSBM Green University, also constructed by Maga Engineering. The Faculty of Technology offers industry-focused, practical-oriented education, preparing undergraduates for careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) industries. The technology stream supports Sri Lanka’s developing and diversifying economy and the rising demand for STEM professionals.
The Faculty of Technology comprises a 600-seat capacity auditorium, administration building, lecture rooms, laboratories, conference rooms, staff areas, and common amenities. Designed by Engineering Consultants Pvt. Ltd. (ECL), the building structure maximises natural views, light, and ventilation; allowing students and teachers to experience the building, surrounding landscape, and interior as fluid spaces. Architectural forms of the design have been inspired by nature, with the use of clay tiles of low absorptivity, and organic natural colours. Rainwater harvesting facilities reduce maintenance costs whilst providing irrigation for the property. Apart from construction of the superstructure, MAGA also undertook all mechanical, electrical, and plumbing work, setting up necessary industrial machinery, equipment, and laboratory support systems.
Chairman and Managing Director of Maga Engineering, M. G. Kularatne said, “Maga and ECL are proud to have brought to life this exemplary complex housing Sri Lanka’s flagship Faculty of Technology, which is due to create a paradigm shift in Sri Lanka’s higher education and support the nation’s industrial drive.
The project showcases our strength in delivering large-scale building projects, We completed the project in March, five months ahead of schedule.”
The University of Sri Jayewardenepura initiated the Faculty of Technology in 2016 to provide undergraduates with a host of higher education opportunities in the fields of Engineering Technology, Biosystems Technology, and Information Communication Technology (ICT).
The faculty now caters to hundreds of students enrolling in the Sri Lankan University system through the new Technology stream introduced to schools in 2013.
Chairman, University Grants Commission, Prof. Sampath Amaratunge said, “The field of technological studies directly relevant to our industries has been a long-standing need in our country’s education system. However, there were only very few opportunities available in this line of study. The University of Sri Jayewardenepura stepped forward to cater to this growing need by establishing the Faculty of Technology.”