Sri Lanka Institute of Architects holds its 25th annual sessions

Building on the theme 'Architect the Initiator', the Sri Lanka Institute of Architects (SLIA) will hold their annual sessions from February 20 to 24 at the BMICH with three main events- the inauguration ceremony, national conference and trade exhibition. The two latter events are open for the public, with the annual sessions giving members of SLIA, professionals, students and the public an opportunity to meet and experience the best of the construction industry.

"We started these annual sessions in 1983 and this year's session which is the 25th will coincide with out golden jubilee," SLIA President Archt. Jayantha Perera said. Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickramanayake will be the chief guest at the inauguration ceremony. "There will also be an award presentation at the event for architects who have made an outstanding contribution to the industry and profession," Archt Perera said, adding that honorary membership would be awarded to Ulrik Plesner, design partner of Geoffrey Bawa who has made an immense contribution to Sri Lankan architecture.

The national conference which will be held on February 21 is open to the public. Designed along the theme of 'Architect the Initiator', the sessions are diverse and will feature renowned architects, designers and photographers, says Archt Jayampathy Herath. Speakers include Ulrik Plesner, Shri Rajeev Sethi (a renowned artist cum designer from India), Vidya Jothi Architect Ashley De Vos, photographer Christopher Silva and D. H. Wijewardene, who was a very senior practitioner and treasurer of SLIA.

"The trade exhibition, architect work and student exhibition, which will be open to the public from February 21 to 24, will feature over 400 stalls. The exhibition would provide the ideal opportunity for anyone associated with the construction industry to display their work," Archt Perera said. Exhibits include machinery and equipment used from excavation to completion of a building, water proofing, supply of steel, bricks to modern material, roofing material as well as a special SLIA stall and a career guidance centre.

The annual general meeting and fellowship night for members would wrap up this year's annual session. Those interested in attending the national conference could contact the SLIA for further details.