The Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (AIQS) conducted a comprehensive accreditation panel visit to the Southern Campus of General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU). This visit was a significant event, marking a crucial step in ensuring the quality and standards of the Quantity Surveying program offered by the university.
The panel was composed of esteemed professionals in the construction industry, including an AIQS representative Mrs. Catherine Squire, Operations Manager for Education & Events at AIQS, Professor Chitra Weddikkara, Managing Director of QServe (PVT) Ltd, Mr. Upul Shantha, a practitioner of Construction Cost Information Service (Pvt) Ltd, and Mr. Ajantha Premarathna, Board Director for the International Chapter – Region 2 of AIQS.
During the visit, the panel engaged in various activities aimed at evaluating the university’s academic and professional practices in the field of Quantity Surveying. The day began with meetings between the panel and the higher officials of KDU including the Vice Chancellor, Rector- Southern Campus, Deputy Vice Chancellors, Dean Faculty of Built Environment and Spatial Sciences, etc. followed by a detailed presentation by the Quantity Surveying Department by Head Of the Department of Quantity Surveying Ms. Nethmi Kawmudi.. The panel also had an opportunity to meet with the department’s academic staff, visiting staff, and other internal department members to gain insights into the curriculum and teaching methodologies.
In addition to academic discussions, the panel participated in a presentation on Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology by Mr. Bimsara Jayanath, showcasing the integration of modern tools in the university’s curriculum. The visit also included sessions with alumni members and current students from intake 38 to intake 41, allowing the panel to assess the program’s impact on undergraduates and their preparedness for the industry.
The visit concluded with a comprehensive inspection of relevant documents and a tour of the university’s facilities, further reinforcing AIQS’s commitment to maintaining high educational standards in the field of Quantity Surveying.
This accreditation visit underscores AIQS’s role in advancing the profession and ensuring that educational institutions like KDU continue to produce skilled and knowledgeable Quantity Surveyors equipped to meet the demands of the global construction industry.
