University of Sri Jayewardenepura: Journals & Proceedings
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Investigating the Crustal Structure near the Mahakandarawa seismic station in Sri Lanka through the Receiver Function Method
No full textSri Lanka has a very ancient geological history that begins in the Precambrian, when it formed part of the Gondwana supercontinent. It was connected to India, Madagascar, Antarctica, and Africa, sharing the same crustal evolution. When Gondwana began to break apart around 180 million years ago, Sri Lanka drifted with the Indian plate to reach its present position in the Indian Ocean. The present work analyzes the subsurface structure beneath the Mahakandarawa (MALK) broadband seismic station using teleseismic P-wave conversions. A combination of converted wave analysis and H-κ stacking was applied to determine both Moho depth and the velocity ratio of compressional to shear waves. The approach indicates a crustal thickness of nearly 37.8 km with a velocity ratio of 1.73, giving a Poisson’s ratio close to 0.25. Such values are typical of silica-rich, felsic material rather than mafic compositions. When compared with previous studies from neighboring Gondwanan fragments such as southern India and Madagascar, which report Moho depths of ~36–39 km and similar felsic crustal compositions, the results from MALK show strong consistency. This agreement reinforces Sri Lanka’s geological affinity with East Gondwana and provides new regional constraints on its tectonic evolution, particularly regarding the preservation of ancient felsic crust across separated continental blocks.Keywords: Teleseismic Receiver Function, Gondwana, Sri Lanka, Crustal Structure, H-κ stackin
A Systematic Literature Review on Categories of NonUse Values of Archaeologically Protected Buildings in Heritage Contexts
No full textConventional heritage valuation methods primarily emphasize economic and use-based aspects, often neglecting the intangible or non-use values of heritage assets. This gap highlights the need for a comprehensive understanding of non-use value categories associated with archaeologically protected buildings. Therefore, this study presents a systematic literature review aimed at identifying the non-use value categories associated with archaeologically protected buildings within heritage contexts. The review was conducted by analyzing peer-reviewed academic articles published between 2001 and 2024. Key non-use value categories identified include Existence Value, Option Value, Bequest Value, Symbolic/ Cultural Value, Spiritual/Religious Value, Social Value, and Environmental/ Landscape Value. Data were extracted and analyzed using thematic analysis, and a tabulation method was applied to identify recurring patterns and classifications. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of intangible heritage values, which are often overlooked in conventional valuation methods that emphasize economic and use based perspectives
 
Lean Construction Pivot Strategies: A Sri Lankan Perspective
No full textThis study explores the effectiveness of Lean Construction practices within Sri Lanka’s building construction sector, addressing the need to overcome barriers that hinder successful implementation. Although global literature highlights multiple benefits of lean principles, the Sri Lankan construction industry faces significant challenges due to limited awareness and familiarity with these methods creating a clear research gap. To assess the applicability and impact of Lean tools, the study employed bothquantitative and qualitative approaches, with statistical analyses conducted using SPSS. Findings reveal that several tools such as 5S, Visualization, Just-In-Time (JIT), Total Quality Management (TQM), and Value-Based Management (VBM) are suitable for local adoption. Among these, Visualization proved most effective in enhancing project quality, cost control, and time efficiency. The results emphasize the importance of education and training initiatives to promote broader lean adoption and realize its fullpotential in improving Sri Lankan construction performance.
 
Valuers’ Insights on Incorporating ESG Factors into Commercial Property Valuation Process
No full textThis study explores how Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) factors are incorporated into the three core stages of the commercial property valuation process, from the perspective of Sri Lankan valuers. Although the RICS Red Book Global Standards emphasize the ESG factors consideration, the traditional valuation process hasn’t incorporated those factors. As a Qualitative study, descriptive analysis was conducted. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews with 10 valuers, accredited by RICS and/or IVSL, each possessing ten or more than 10 years of experience in the valuation field. Findings reveal that, while Environmental and Social factors are increasingly incorporated into the valuation process, Governance factors remain less emphasized. Further, among three core stages of valuation process, in the Inspection and Reporting stage most of the ESG factors are being incorporated rather than in the calculation stage. This study contributes to the literature, regarding ESG andcommercial property valuation process in Sri Lankan context. The study calls on regulatory authorities to establish a standardized framework or upgrade to the traditional valuation process to incorporate ESG factors.
 
An Analytical Study on Women's Participation in Sri Lankan National Politics (Based on Women's Representation in Parliament 2010-2024)
No full textThe discussion on the political participation of Sri Lankan women must begin with a debatable approach - the reason for this can be stated as the fact that women's representation in the Parliament of Sri Lanka, the national legislature, has never reached a positive level of more than 10% from 1931 to 2024. The research problem of the study titled An Analytical Study of Women's Political Participation in the Parliament of Sri Lanka is to study why women's representation in the country's parliament has been lagging behind since 1931. The main objective of this study is to study the reasons for the backwardness of women's representation in the Parliament of Sri Lanka in the context of the 2010 - 2024 parliamentary elections. This study was conducted based on the data of 50 data contributors, 20 of whom were male and 30 were female, in the Moraketiya Grama Niladhari Division, which has about 3352 voters. A series of open-ended questions were asked to the data contributors and the data was obtained. The quantitative data obtained was analyzed under the statistical method using the MS Excel software, and the qualitative data was analyzed under the qualitative approach. It was found that the prevailing socio-cultural attitudes, character assassinations during political competition, political family background, the prevailing electoral system, violence in politics, and economic difficulties were the factors that greatly affect the backwardness of women's representation. The study data suggests that this situation can be avoided by introducing a quota system, educating voters about the importance of women's representation, and providing nominations only to educated women with political consciousness
A Historical Study of Public Policy Formulation to Promote Gender Equality Attitudes
No full textIn the past, rulers maintained strong political, social, religious, and economic structures within their states. By promoting gender equality, they cultivated the obedience and loyalty of the people. To achieve this, various policies were implemented to protect gender equality, which in turn contributed to the sustainable existence of the state. These royal policies also enabled women to attain higher status in society, as mothers, daughters, wives, and sisters, by ensuring equal privileges for all. Accordingly, the research problem addressed in this study is the examination of the policies aimed at protecting gender equality and the impact of these strategies on the sustainable development of the state. The primary objective of the research is to identify the gender equality protection measures in this country and the state policies implemented by past rulers for that purpose. Data for this research were collected through a comparative analysis of both primary and secondary sources, including library studies, newspapers, articles, and magazines. Drawing on the teachings of the Buddha as a foundation for promoting equality for women, ancient rulers actively worked to ensure and enhance gender equality in society. Notable measures included granting women the right to inherit property and assets, providing access to education and vocational training, ensuring healthcare and medical services for women, allowing their participation in political and decision-making processes, and creating opportunities for professional and economic independence. These policies are significant and can be recognized as contributing directly to sustainable social development
Gender Disparities in Parental Awareness and Implementation of Food-Based Dietary Guidelines In Sri Lanka: A Cross-Sectional Study
No full textIn a world where dietary choices play a crucial role in health outcomes, understanding who influences these decisions and in what ways is more important than ever. In Sri Lanka, non-communicable diseases account for 83% of all deaths, with poor dietary habits being a key modifiable risk factor. To address this, Sri Lanka introduced Food-Based Dietary Guidelines to improve public dietary practices. This study examines gender disparities in parental awareness and implementation of Dietary Guidelines through a random sample of 252 parents in the Colombo District. Data were collected using a self-administered, closed-ended questionnaire covering perceptions of Dietary Guidelines, community involvement, and social support. Descriptive statistics and independent sample t-tests were used to analyze gender differences in awareness and dietary practices. The results revealed significant gender differences in educational attainment, with females achieving higher levels. Females also demonstrated greater awareness of dietary guidelines, particularly regarding daily nut consumption and limiting salty foods. Notable gender differences were observed in sleep practices, with one gender reporting better adherence to recommended sleep duration. However, no significant differences were found in household income, age distribution, or overall dietary practice scores, suggesting economic and behavioral parity in several areas. These findings highlight the need for gender-sensitive health education programs to address gaps in dietary awareness and promote better adherence to FBDGs, particularly among males. Future research should investigate the cultural and lifestyle factors influencing these gender differences to design more effective public health interventions. This study underscores the importance of tailoring nutrition education to gender-specific needs while promoting equitable health practices across populations
Gender Politics in Post-Conflict Sri Lanka: From Wartime Roles to Peacetime Representation
No full textThis study examines the transformation of women’s roles in Sri Lanka from wartime participation to post-conflict political representation, with particular attention to the period following the end of the civil war in 2009. Drawing on feminist theory, post-conflict reconstruction frameworks, and intersectionality, the research explores how women’s experiences as combatants, caregivers, activists, and community leaders during the war have influenced their political engagement in the post-war context. Using a qualitative-dominant mixed-methods approach, the study integrates document analysis, semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and electoral data to analyze both structural and normative barriers to women’s political inclusion. Findings reveal a significant disconnect between women’s expanded wartime roles and their limited post-conflict political representation. Despite increased visibility and leadership during the conflict, women—particularly former LTTE cadres and grassroots activists—continue to face entrenched patriarchal norms, militarization, economic marginalization, and exclusionary party politics. Although post-war initiatives and the introduction of local government quotas have created limited openings, these measures remain insufficient to ensure meaningful participation. The study further highlights how intersectional factors such as ethnicity, class, and regional marginalization intensify barriers for Tamil and Muslim women in conflict-affected areas. By tracing the continuum from wartime agency to peacetime exclusion, this research underscores the need for structural reforms, gender-responsive political institutions, and inclusive policy interventions. The findings contribute to broader debates on gender and post-conflict governance and offer policy-relevant insights for strengthening women’s political representation and sustainable peacebuilding in Sri Lanka
Unveiling the Harmonies of Gender: An Exploration of the Thumri Singing Tradition
No full textThumri, a distinguished North Indian classical vocal genre, which has two styles called Bandish Ki Thumri and Bol Banao Thumri, functions romantic lyrics through a female protagonist, often related to love and enthusiasts' separation. There are Predominant objective of this study is to light up the gender relation that exists within the context of the Thumri singing style through an intensive analysis of feminist views and male contributions. This study investigates gender dynamics in the Thumri singing style, revealing feminist perspectives and male contributions using an intersectionality, post-colonial theory and performance theory through a comprehensive literature review approach, focusing on gender. Thumri, a classical Indian music form, is often associated with femininity due to its historical association with courtesans who performed Thumri while having personal relationships with male patrons. However, during music reforms, male hereditary musicians played a significant role, and female musicians faced suspicion and ambivalence. The study highlights the need for a detailed understanding of Thumri's gender dynamics, which significantly influence its feminine identity. Despite progress in female performers, Thumri still faces challenges and stereotypes, and current artists are transforming gender roles. Male and female Thumri singers, inclusive of Bhaya Saheb, Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan, Gauhar Jan, Jaddin Bai Munawar Ali Khan, Jagdip Mishra, Pandit Bhimsеn Joshi, Ustad Barkat Ali Khan, Mausuddin Khan, Abdul Karim Khan, Fiyaz Khan, Saraswathi Bai, Hirabi Barodekar, Zohra Bai, and Malka Jan, Bari Moti Bai and Rasoolan Bai, Begum Akhtar , Girja Devi , Siddheshwari Devi , Shoba Gurtu ,Prabha Atre have made great contributions to the Thumri genre, incorporating Thumri additives into their performances and passing on their competencies to the next generation
A Socio-anthropological Study the Ritualistic Background Associated with the Seenigama Dewalaya
Get PDFLay people usually associate religious sites with the aspiration of making their mundane and super mundane desires a reality. This research was focused towards the ritualistic functionality of the Seenigama Dewalaya both in terms of white and black rituals. The research was a socio-anthropological research and a qualitative one. The sample of the research comprised of two in-charges of the shrines of sea shrine (Muhundu Dewalaya) and costal shrine (Verala Dewalaya) of Seenigama Dewalaya and 10 devotees who came in search of divine assistance. The sample was purposively selected. Semi-structured interviews, in-depth interviews, and observation techniques were utilized as the data collection tools. Thematic analysis was employed as the data analyzing technique. Research findings are as follows; Devotees engage in making vows and white magic in the coastal shrine whereas curses and black magic are done in the sea shrine. The devotees coming to Seenigama Dewalaya are in three main forms; fishermen, politicians and people from governing bodies and lay public. Fishermen make vows to Seenigama dewalaya to protect themselves from unexpected hazards on the sea and to increase their self – esteem required for multi-day sea tours. Lay people make visits to Seenigama dewalaya with the intention of punishing the people who did them wrong. Political leaders go there with the hope of winning elections and defeating their political rivals. The research concludes that Seenigama Dewalaya predominantly tries to feed the needs of the mundane society and it manifests a cross-section of the Sri Lankan psycho-social realm