Royal Institute of British Architects inaugurates ‘RIBA Members Sri Lanka’

Last week saw the launch of RIBA Members Sri Lanka, the second RIBA membership group to be formed in the Asia Pacific region. 

At an event to mark the occasion at the British High Commissioner’s residence in Colombo, guests from the architectural, construction and design communities heard the British High Commissioner James Dauris hail this development. He said, “It would support the strong contribution that members of RIBA in Sri Lanka are making to the improvement of the built environment.” RIBA President Jane Duncan outlined the international role of the RIBA, in education and practice, and its duty to serve society through architecture. “International member groups provide support to RIBA members across the globe. I am delighted to be able to support RIBA Members Sri Lanka at today’s inauguration and I look forward to the future development of the group,” she said. RIBA Members Sri Lanka Chairperson Nela de Zoysa said, “I take pride in the inauguration of RIBA Members Sri Lanka and hope to see the membership grow in years to come.” RIBA Vice President Nations and Regions and Membership Antony Clerici and Head of International Chapters Chloe Sadler, were also present at the event.The Chief Guest was Dr. Roland Silva, the oldest distinguished RIBA Member in Sri Lanka. The event also saw the presentation of the RIBA Presidential Medal to guest of honour and Past President of the Sri Lanka Institute of Architects, Ar. Harsha Fernando.

The RIBA was established in 1834, specifically for the advancement of architecture and promotion of the acquirement of knowledge of the arts and sciences, under its Charter in the UK.  

Pix by Upul Abayasekara