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Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, boasts a rich recorded history spanning over 2 millennia, with evidence suggesting that the island supported humans from around 125,000 years ago. Known by various names throughout its history—including Heladiva, Lankadweepa, Taprobane, Serendib, and Ceylon—the country adopted the name, Sri Lanka, when it became a republic in 1972. Renowned as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” Sri Lanka enjoys a tropical climate with average temperatures around 30°C, making it a year-round destination for visitors.

Spanning an area of 65,610 square kilometers, Sri Lanka is home to a diverse population of over 22 million people, representing a rich tapestry of ethnicities and religions. The country takes pride in its impressive literacy rate of over 92%, one of the highest in the region. As of 2024, Sri Lanka has continued its commitment to economic development and social progress, with ongoing reconstruction and modernization projects.

Despite challenges, Sri Lanka’s social indicators remain among the best in South Asia, reflecting its resilience and potential. With a unique cultural heritage, natural beauty, and strategic vision for sustainable growth, Sri Lanka is poised to thrive in the years ahead.

History of the ASHRAE Sri Lankan Chapter

Past Presidents

2002-2003 Mr. Y. Marikkar
2003-2004 Mr. M. Nanayakkara
2004-2005 Mr. C.Dalugoda
2005-2006 Mr. P.Amarasinghe
2006-2007 Mr. K.W.G. Hewage
2007-2008 Mr. W.Jayakody
2008-2009 Mr. P.Kalubowila
2009-2010 Mr. J.H.C. De Saram
2010-2011 Mr. M. Nanayakkara
2011-2012 Mr. C.Dalugoda

2012-2013 Mr. W.Jayakody

2013-2014 Mr. P.Amarasinghe
2014-2015 Mr. W. Goonaratne
2015-2016 Mr. K. Rodrigo
2016-2017 Mr. P.Kalubowila
2017-2018 Mr. M Senavirathne
2018-2019 Mr. W. Perera
2019-2020 Mr. P. Hewapathirana
2020-2021 Ms. S. Perera
2021-2022 Ms. S. Perera
2022-2023 Mr. H.C. Jayaweera
2023-2024 Mr. W. Goonaratne

2024-2025 Ms. D. Gunawardhana

Milestones of the Chapter 

The timeline in the image highlights key milestones in the history of the Sri Lankan Chapter of ASHRAE:

  • 2001 SEP – Participation in ASHRAE RAL 1st Regional Planning Meeting in Taipei, Taiwan.

  • 2002 FEB – Establishment of the Sri Lankan Chapter of ASHRAE (Chapter 171) with ASHRAE President Mr. William J. Coad.

  • 2002 – Participation in the RAL Chapters Regional Conference (CRC) in Reading, England.

  • 2011 FEB – Establishment of student branches at the University of Moratuwa and the Technical Institute for Higher National Diploma in Engineering, with ASHRAE President Ms. Lynn G. Bellenger.

  • 2012 SEP – Hosting of the CRC of RAL in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

  • 2017 FEB – 15th Anniversary Celebrations of the Sri Lankan Chapter of ASHRAE.

  • 2020 OCT – Sachin Ratnayake wins the CRC 2020 Student Competition.

  • 2022 – 20th Anniversary of the Sri Lankan Chapter of ASHRAE.

Looking Ahead

As the ASHRAE Sri Lankan Chapter continues its journey, it remains committed to its mission of advancing the arts and sciences of HVAC&R, inspiring the next generation, and contributing to a sustainable future.

The history and present of ASHRAE Sri Lankan Chapter reflects the unwavering efforts of the Chapter in shaping a resilient and forward-looking industry landscape.

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