Techno Sri Lanka 2018 launched

By Jiwon Jung

Once again, for the 33rd consecutive year, the launch of Techno Sri Lanka 2018 was held on 19 June at the Galle Face Hotel. The exhibition is the annual flagship event of the Institution of Engineers Sri Lanka (IESL) and is themed ‘Engineering the Green Future’ this year.

The national engineering and technology exhibition will be held on 12, 13, and 14 October at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH). The exhibition is well-known for showcasing the latest technologies, products and skills across the world to its target audience over the three days it is held, with optimum standards being maintained during the event.

At the launch, the fact that engineers have to be smart and conservative was highlighted to ensure a healthier planet for the consecutive generation. It is a significant theme since in earlier years engineers concentrated on improving the technology and making the best of it; however, now it is time to consider the greenery by constructing beneficial products and turning Earth into an environment-friendly planet. 

The exhibition will focus on bringing technologies and products that improve environmental quality with the aim to conservatively harness existing resources to create vibrant and resilient communities.

Kicking off the launch of Techno Sri Lanka 2018, Institution of Engineers Sri Lanka (IESL) President Engineer Professor N. Ratnayake welcomed the guests and appreciated the support given to make the exhibition a reality once again in 2018. 

Engineer Professor T.M. Pallewatta highlighted the implications of the Techno Sri Lanka exhibition and the significance of the theme during his speech. 

“Green future products, services and practices allow for economic development while conserving for future generations by integrating social, environmental and economic factors with awareness and responsibility,” he stated. “Techno Sri Lanka 2018 with ‘Engineering the Green Future’ as its theme, takes a significant step forward encouraging smart, clean and green solutions to the country.”

Chief Guest Ministry of Megapolis and Western Development Secretary Nihal Rupasinghe spoke on the value of the exhibition and how it was a good opportunity for engineers in terms of technology and skill. “It is a good opportunity for our fellow engineers and other people to learn new trends, the way that we are handling our future,” he said.

Sri Lanka Telecom General Manager – Corporate Relations Rohana Ellawala shared the importance of the green future and spoke about sustainability with respect to the island. “The world is slowly coming to the realisation where we need to start taking care of our environment before it is too late,” he asserted.

Mobitel Senior General Manager of Engineering, Network Planning and Operations Rasantha Hettithanthrige spoke on how the Techno exhibition and IESL create synergy and would be a great vehicle to share knowledge on technology for fellow engineers. He pledged support for network planning and operations of Techno Sri Lanka 2018.

N-Able Ltd. Managing Director Peter D’Almeida highlighted the importance of curiosity and inquisitiveness as well as the enthusiasm of science during the talk. 

“You don’t need to be a scientist. What the world needs is a curious mind and inquisitiveness,” he sharply commented. He also talked about the beauty of science and pointedly asked: “What really is green?” and went onto the comment on the irony.

The launch was wrapped up with concluding remarks and thanks by Techno Sri Lanka 2018 Deputy Chairman Engineer Professor D.A.R. Dolage. Techno Sri Lanka pledges to provide Sri Lanka new segments and fruitful opportunities.

The three-day exhibition, featuring contemporary products and newest technologies under one roof at the BMICH, will be attended by suppliers, agents, national policymakers, engineers and consumers.

Pix by Indraratne Balasuriya