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THE DEVELOPMENT OF OUR COUNTRY REQUIRESA
COMBINED EFFORT OF PROFESSIONALS
The development of our country
requires the combined effort of people in all walks of life.
The services from professionals like yourselves, Architects,
Engineers, Planners and all those connected with the building
industry are of utmost importance for the development of Sri
Lanka.
I have
no doubt that Professionals are aware of the future endeavors of
the government through “its vision Mahinda Chintanaya which
envisages Sri Lanka to be the dynamic hub of Asia in Trade,
Economy, Naval, Aviation and Tourism”.
In
this context it is also important for Sri Lankan Architects to
cooperate with engineers and scientists to design affordable
housing for the broad mass of the people. I hope I will not be
misunderstood, affordable housing should not be at the cost of
safety and comfort. With energy prices due to rise in the next
decade the cost of living cannot be held only by macro economic
measures, it is our duty as architects engineers and scientists
to put technology to use to make an appreciable impact on
reducing costs. One area I feel where a huge impact could be
made is in the area of building costs. Designs must take into
account the use of low cost materials and also attempt to
maximize productivity of labour inputs whose costs are rising in
a phenomenal manner. As architects I would also entreat you to
design houses for the masses which I would term are environment
and climate friendly- that is designs that take into account the
heat and rain of the tropics.-and that you cooperate with others
in the field to devise effective disposal systems for the waste
and rubbish which today have dimmed the urban prospect – I hope
you will innovate on these lines making use of the great
development in the sciences during the last few decades.
I
would also like to draw your attention to the haphazard manner
in which some areas are presently growing leading to serious
social problems whilst at the same time denuding human as well
as other resources from the hinterland. It is important that you
together with town planners and others employ techniques to
shift investment, skills and labour to other potential growth
regions especially villages in order that the next decade in
Sri Lanka will see growth with equity to all as envisaged by
President Mahinda Rajapakse. whose vision in intiating the
Hambantota development project is the first step in this
direction. I might in this connection mention the arunodhaya pro
poor housing programme of the Ministry of Urban Development
which has and seeks to give relief to the poorly housed in urban
and rural areas.
Our is
a Nation of abundant resources both physical and human and it is
up to institutions such as yours to guide Sri Lanka to achieve
the status of a developed Nation. We know that the Sri lanka
association of Architects throughout its existence has been
actively engaged in the development and advancement of
architecture and urban design in Sri Lanka.
I
believe It is my duty specially in the presence of foreign
delegates to mention that the National Heritage of this country
in Architecture, Engineering and Hydrology stands high not only
in Asia but also in the entire world. These are recorded not
only in history books but also etched in stone in many
inscriptions and monument found in the island. Thus we owe to
past and future generations that we in the present era should
make use of modern technology and advancements that are taking
place to cater to the urgent needs of the public at large.
This
Members Work and Trade Exhibition held annually has been very
popular with the people. The public have had the opportunity to
view and appreciate every year these technological advances and
to appreciate products and services displayed at this Mega
Exhibition. From corporate entities to the house builder these
exhibits will be of enormous use. This has also given the SLIA
members the opportunity to display their designs, products and
services.
Finally I am
sure the presence of delegates from CAA and other International
Bodies related to the Profession of Architects represents the
tranquility at present existing in sri lanka and is a message of
strength to peace we have achieved in the country after 30 years
of stressful terrorist activity. No doubt the deliberations of
the sessions and the sharing of your combined knowledge and
talents will enable all of you to develop a vision which could
assist the development of our country..
I
sincerely appreciate the efforts of Sri Lanka Institution of
Architects in their quest for professionalism and hope their
future expectations and programs associated with the development
of architecture will be achieved with great success. The
Government of Sri Lanka under the leadership of His Excellency
Mahinda Rajapaksha and His Broad Vision through :Mahinda
Chinthanaya” will extend all support and cooperation to assist
professionals such as yourself to realize your goals.
I must
thank once again all officials for inviting me to this
prestigious event and look forward to the Members Work and Trade
Exhibition with excitement and enthusiasm.
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