News
What comes next after you're done with your research?
Workshop on Scientific Writing and Publishing in Disaster Risk Reated Subjects
The National Building Research Organisation hosted a workshop focused on scientific writing and publishing for researchers in disaster risks and related subjects on 24th July 2023. The workshop was led by Prof. Dilanthi Amarathunga and Prof. Richard Haigh from the University of Huddersfield, UK, who are also esteemed editors of the International Journal of Disaster Resilience in the Built Environment, the workshop covered key aspects of the publishing process.
The workshop witnessed enthusiastic participation from approximately 40 scientists who attended the event in person at the venue. Additionally, there were 30 more scientists who actively joined the workshop online, creating a successful hybrid event that catered to both physical and virtual attendees. Participants were enlightened on the significance of publishing research, not only as an obligation but also as an opportunity to contribute to the academic community, inspire peers, and advance disaster resilience understanding. The workshop further provided valuable insights into selecting appropriate journals, crafting a coherent writing philosophy, and adhering to ethical publishing practices. The event's collaborative environment allowed researchers to engage in interactive discussions and left them equipped with the necessary tools to effectively communicate their research findings, promoting positive change in the field of disaster resilience worldwide.
We highly appreciate continued support by Prof. Dilanthi Amaratunga for capacity improvements of Scientists at NBRO.
Preparation and Establishment of a National Building Code for Sri Lanka
Government of Sri Lanka lead by Construction Industry Development Authority (CIDA), National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) and Urban Development Authority (UDA) is in the process of development of a Unified National Building Code for Sri Lanka under the Technical Assistance of the World Bank.
Accordingly, a technical mission including a two days stakeholder workshop and a focus group discussion was held successfully on 21st and 22nd of June 2023 at the Institution of Engineers Sri Lanka with the participation of built environment stakeholders representing key public agencies, professional institutions and private sector.
NBRO Collaboration with Vanderbilt University to Conduct a Research Implication
NBRO Collaboration with Vanderbilt University to Conduct a Research Implication – Climate Change on agriculture & hydro-power generation in Mahaweli Complex for building resilient settlements.
The National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) and the Dept. of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Vanderbilt University, USA plan to implement a collaborative research project in Sri Lanka.
The project, entitled "Policy - Infrastructure - Community Interdependency: The Next Frontiers in Dynamic Network" seeks to evaluate the dynamic and uncertain interdependencies between the agricultural and hydropower generation sector with a case study of the Mahaweli Complex. The ultimate goal of the project is to develop policy recommendations for enhancing the interdependencies between the two networks and improving the overall resilience of the Mahaweli Complex.
The representatives from Vanderbilt University, including Prof. Hiba Baroud and Tharindu de Silva, visited the NBRO on 09th May 2023 and had an initial discussion with the Director General.
They also met with the higher management officials of the Ceylon Electricity Board and the Water Management Panel of Mahaweli Authority to gain a better understanding of the decision-making process for hydro power generation and water usage for agricultural purposes.
As part of the project, the team also had a field visit to Bowatenna Reservoir and Power Plant to gain practical insights into the implementation of decisions made by higher management. They also had a meeting with farmer organizations to discuss the implementation of decisions and the potential impacts of climate change.
The project is an important step towards building more resilient communities that can withstand the impacts of climate change. This project has significant potential to enhance the resilience of the water management in Mahaweli Complex, which is a vital source of agricultural productivity and hydropower generation in Sri Lanka.
The project aligns with the goals and priorities of the NBRO, particularly with respect to promoting sustainable and resilient settlements in the country.
Establishment of a National Building Code for Sri Lanka
Development of a unified national Building Code for Sri Lanka has been identified as a priority in order to make sure a safer and a disaster resilient built environment in the country. Accordingly, Construction Industry Development Authority (CIDA), the National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) and the Urban Development Authority (UDA) to lead the Building Code development process with the consultation of relevant stakeholders. The World Bank has extended their technical assistance in the Building Code development process.
Accordingly consultation programme of key professional institutions was held successfully on 18-05-2023 at NBRO auditorium with the participation of the representatives from Construction Industry Development Authority (CIDA), National Building Research Organisation (NBRO), Urban Development Authority (UDA), Institute of Engineers Sri Lanka (IESL), Sri Lanka Institute of Architects (SLIA), Institute of Town Planners Sri Lanka (ITPSL), Society of Structural Engineers Sri Lanka (SSESL) and Sri Lanka Geotechnical Society (SLGS).