Association of Professional Sri Lankans in UK holds 4th Convention

Second APSL Research Symposium (APSL-RS 2012) was held on Saturday 17 November 2012 at Double Tree by Hilton Sheffield Park Hotel in Sheffield. APSL-RS 2012 provided a platform for UK based young Sri Lankan and international researchers to come together, share knowledge and start effective collaborations. It was also an exciting opportunity for the delegates to learn about cutting-edge research and technologies.

Since its launch, APSL-RS 2012 attracted significant interest from Sri Lankan researchers around the UK. Following a comprehensive review process 19 papers were selected for oral presentations and posters giving attention to social and commercial benefits of the research projects.

APSL-RS 2012 host Prof. I.M. Dharmadasa welcomed the guests at the start of the proceedings, while APSL President Rohan de Alwis, introduced numerous projects in the UK and Sri Lanka and the events organised by APSL for the Sri Lankan professional community in the UK.

The symposium consisted of three sessions. Prof. Dharmadasa and Dr. Mahesh de Silva co-chaired the first session on engineering and built environment research. Head of the Centre for Disaster Resilience at University of Salford Prof. Dilanthi Amaratunga, delivered a keynote speech titled ‘Rebuilding for Resilience: Reconstructing Infrastructure in the North and East of Sri Lanka’ commencing session one.

Session one presentation topics included ‘Electroplating of semiconductor materials for photovoltaic and optoelectronic device applications’, ‘Innovations in lightweight structures and electric propulsion in aviation’, ‘Process capability maturity modelling in the construction industry’ and ‘Satellite link availability enhancement by integration of time diversity in the second generation Digital Video Broadcasting system for Satellite (DVB-S2)’.

Session one was followed by the coffee break and the poster session which included posters titled ‘Challenges faced by steel industry’, ‘Development of ZnTe layers using electrochemical technique for applications in thin film solar cells’, ‘Solar villages for sustainable development’, ‘Reducing the scarcity in mental health research from low and middle income countries: A success story from Sri Lanka’ and ‘Reforming higher education to contribute to lifelong learning in the built environment’.

Consultant in Genitourinary Medicine at Western Sussex Hospitals NHS Trust Dr. Andrew Nayagam and Senior Lecturer and Consultant in Anaesthesia and Critical Care Medicine at University of Manchester Dr. Mahesh Nirmalan, co-chaired session, three on medical, biological sciences and chemistry research.

Dr. Mahesh Nirmalan delivered a keynote speech commencing session three. Session three presentation topics included ‘Assessment of mental health and physical wellbeing of left behind family members of international labour migrants: A national comparative study in Sri Lanka’, ‘Structural Insights into the Initiation of DNA Synthesis in Eukaryotic Replication’, ‘Evolution of human conserved non-coding elements (CNEs)’ and ‘Enhancement in Photoelectrochemical properties of microwave treated Zn(OH)2, TiO2 and Fe2O3 Electrodes’. At the end of each presentation delegates had the opportunity to ask questions and share their knowledge with the researchers.

Following conclusion of session three Prof. Dharmadasa launched his latest book ‘advances in thin film solar cells’ and the attendees had an opportunity to win a copy of the book.

APSL President, Rohan de Alwis presented certificates to presenters appreciating their contribution to APSL-RS 2012. Symposium Chair Dr. Mahesh de Silva thanked the special guests, keynote speakers, presenters and delegates for their presence and contributions during his closing remarks and invited the delegates to join APSL to strengthen the association and expand its activities.

The event started by 7:00 p.m. with a welcome address by APSL-RS 2012 host Prof. Dharmadasa followed by an address by the APSL President Rohan de Alwis. A message from Sri Lankan High Commissioner to the UK Dr. Chris Nonis was also read by the APSL President. Dr. Nonis a professional himself was unable to attend the event due to a Pirith Ceremony and alms-giving at the High Commission in London. Delegates and the many new guests then went on to enjoy a sumptuous Sri Lankan dinner provided by East and West restaurant, Sheffield.

Dr. Ruwan de Soyza conducted an interactive Sri Lankan musical experience following the dinner which was thoroughly enjoyed by the audience. The presence of Bill Forbes, a veteran UK based Sri Lankan singer, was the surprise guest and highlight of the night. A raffle draw was held organised by APSL executive committee member Gayani Senaratne. Proceeds from the raffle will be channelled to APSL projects in Sri Lanka.

Delegates and guests finally had the opportunity to dance to Baila music until midnight. APSL Membership Secretary Mohan Siriwardane delivered the vote of thanks, with special thanks to APSL members Lal and Mangalika Jayawardane for their support in organising the event, followed by the national anthems of Sri Lanka and UK to end a highly successful event by APSL.