UNESCO Madanjeet Singh Centre for South Asia Water Management (UMCSAWM) Successfully Concludes 12th Board of Management Meeting

UMCSAWM, Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, March 17, 2025

The UNESCO Madanjeet Singh Centre for South Asia Water Management (UMCSAWM) at the University of Moratuwa held its 12th Board of Management (BoM) Meeting on March 17, 2025, at the Vice Chancellor's Board Room. The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including academic leaders, water management experts, and representatives from the Madanjeet Singh Foundation (MSF) and the South Asia Foundation (SAF), to review progress, discuss future initiatives, and strengthen collaborative efforts in advancing water resources management in South Asia.

The meeting was chaired by Prof. N. D. Gunawardena, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Moratuwa, and co-chaired by Mr. Avindra Rodrigo, Chairperson of SAF-Sri Lanka. Madam France Marquet, Principal Trustee of MSF and SAF’s official representative to UNESCO, attended the meeting and delivered remarks, emphasizing the importance of sustainable water management in fostering regional cooperation and development.

Key Highlights of the Meeting:

1. Welcome Note by Vice-Chancellor: Prof. N. D. Gunawardena welcomed attendees and highlighted UMCSAWM’s achievements in promoting excellence in water resources education and research.
2. Message from SAF-SL Chairperson: Mr. Avindra Rodrigo underscored the critical role of UMCSAWM in addressing water challenges in South Asia and commended the Centre’s contributions to regional collaboration.
3. Annual Report Presentation: The UMCSAWM Annual Report (November 2023 - November 2024) showcased the Centre’s accomplishments, including the successful implementation of its M.Sc. programs and research initiatives.
4. Progress on M.Sc. Programs: Updates were provided on the ongoing 8th Intake (2024-2026) and plans for the 9th Intake (2026-2028), highlighting the program’s growing impact on water resources management in the region.
5. Financial Review: The meeting reviewed program expenditures and committed costs, ensuring transparency and accountability in resource allocation.
6. Remarks by Madam France Marquet: Madam Marquet praised UMCSAWM’s efforts in aligning with UNESCO’s goals and MSF’s mission to promote peace and sustainable development through education and cultural exchange.

Composition of the Board of Management:

The BoM comprises distinguished members, including:

• Prof. N. D. Gunawardena (Chairman, Vice-Chancellor, University of Moratuwa)
• Mr. Avindra Rodrigo (Co-Chairman, Chairperson of SAF-Sri Lanka)
• Madam France Marquet (Principal Trustee, MSF/SAF)
• Prof. J. M. A. Manatunge (Dean, Faculty of Engineering, UoM)
• Prof. U. P. Nawagamuwa (Head, Department of Civil Engineering, UoM)
• Prof. R. L. H. L. Rajapakse (Chairman of the Centre and Secretary)

Looking Ahead:

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further strengthen UMCSAWM’s role as a regional hub for water resources education and research. The Board also set the date for the next BoM meeting, ensuring continued progress toward achieving the Centre’s mission.

About UMCSAWM:

The UNESCO Madanjeet Singh Centre for South Asia Water Management (UMCSAWM) is a premier institution dedicated to advancing water resources management in South Asia. Established under the auspices of UNESCO and supported by the Madanjeet Singh Foundation, UMCSAWM offers cutting-edge M.Sc. programs and conducts research to address the region’s pressing water challenges.

Join the Conversation:

Follow UMCSAWM’s journey and stay updated on its initiatives by visiting the official website and social media channels.

The 12th BoM Meeting marked another milestone in UMCSAWM’s journey toward fostering sustainable water management and regional cooperation in South Asia. Together, we are building a future where water resources are managed wisely and equitably for generations to come.