The Buddhist Society of the University led by Prof. Danny Atapattu took the initiative to construct a Budu Medura in 2001. Foundation stone for this was laid on 28 June under the patronage of The Most Reverend Atthudawe Sri Rahula, the Chancellor of the University and Rev. Midigama Soratha, satisfying a long-felt need. This is being constructed at a cost of about Rs. 1.8 million, which will be rich with carvings depicting the cultural features of Ruhuna in particular. It is proposed to complete its construction by the Esala Poya this year, but its progress is affected due to financial constraints. We greatly appreciate donations to this end, which may be sent to Prof. Atapattu (Tel: 041- 27014, e-mail: atapattu@econ.ruh.ac.lk) to be credited to the University account 0032-1620071984 of Peoples Bank branch at Uyanwatta for this purpose.

The Faculty of Medicine recently established a Centre for Development of Ethics in Medicine, which is the only such center dedicated to the academic study of biomedical ethics in Sri Lanka. This Centre will serve as the focal point for studies and research on all aspects of biomedical ethics. Besides, it will be a resource center for collection, storage (archive) and dissemination of information related to medical and health care ethics. It also proposes to provide consultancy and advisory service in biomedical ethics for doctors, particularly in the Southern Province.

Prof. Susirith Mendis currently serves as the Coordinator of the CEDEM and more information about its functions and services can be obtained by contacting him (Tel: 09 - 23407 e-mail: dean@srilanka.net)

The Department of Fisheries Biology commenced a special degree programme in Fisheries Biology in November 2001 to cater to the increasing manpower needs in this field. This undoubtedly signifies an important landmark not only in the history of University of Ruhuna but also in the whole sector of higher education in the country. A handsome grant from SAREC has contributed to strengthening laboratory facilities and providing post-graduate training to the staff in this field. Training on scuba diving is another notable feature of the project, and staff members, both academic and non-academic, have been trained in scuba diving. The Department looks forward to establishing a diving school for undergaduates and for those who are interested in obtaining diving licenses.

The Department of Business Administration of the Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences has successfully launched two postgraduate degree programmes in Management Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration (PDBA) and Master of Business Administration (MBA). The objective of these programmes has been to provide a systematic exposition in advanced management education to practicing managers functioning at executive levels in the private and public sectors and to suitable graduates seeking managerial positions or academic advancement. Already two batches of students have been enrolled in the PDBA/MBA programme. Student empowerment is the main objective of the teaching model of the PDBA/MBA programme during which active and interactive methods are used with case studies and syndicates. More details can be obtained from the coordinator, Prof. D. Atapattu (Tel. 041-27014).

Foundation laying ceremony of Budu Medura