Connecting Generations. Inspiring Talent. Shaping the Future.
The Building Economics Students’ Society (BESS) is the undergraduate student organisation of the Department of Building Economics at the University of Moratuwa. It brings together Quantity Surveying undergraduates and provides a vibrant platform for academic development, professional exposure, student welfare, creativity, leadership, sports, culture, and community engagement.
More than a student society, BESS is an integral part of the student experience within the Department of Building Economics. Through its diverse programmes and activities, the Society encourages students to learn beyond the classroom, discover their talents, build meaningful relationships, and develop the confidence and skills needed to become responsible professionals in the built environment.
Our journey
BESS's story is closely intertwined with the history of the Department of Building Economics.
Its roots trace back to the Quantity Surveying Student Society, established to represent early generations of Quantity Surveying students after the Department of Building Economics was established in 1983.
With the introduction of the Bachelor of Science (Honours) programme in Facilities Management in 2006, the student community expanded to include both Quantity Surveying and Facilities Management students. During this period, the society evolved into the Building Economics Students’ Society (BESS), bringing students together under a shared identity.
Following the establishment of a separate Department of Facilities Management in 2022, BESS has continued from 2026 onwards as the undergraduate student society representing Quantity Surveying students in the Department of Building Economics.
Today, BESS carries forward decades of student traditions, experiences, friendships, and achievements while continuing to evolve with the changing needs of students and the profession.
Our Vision
To create a vibrant and supportive student society where students learn, grow, discover their potential, develop their talents, and prepare confidently for their future careers.
Our Objectives
BESS is committed to:
- Promoting academic and professional development among Quantity Surveying students and supporting their preparation for the built environment profession.
- Enriching learning beyond the classroom through opportunities, guidance, knowledge sharing, and student-led initiatives.
- Supporting student welfare, including assistance for students facing financial difficulties.
- Encouraging talent, creativity, and participation in social, cultural, sporting, and extracurricular activities.
- Creating pathways to professional opportunities through career guidance, industry engagement, networking, and employment-related initiatives.
What BESS Does
University life is about more than academic achievement. BESS creates opportunities for students to develop the knowledge, skills, relationships, and experiences that complement their academic journey.
Academic & Professional Development
BESS helps students connect their academic learning with the realities of professional practice.
QS Careers Day gives undergraduates the opportunity to engage with professionals from the Quantity Surveying and construction industry, explore career pathways, gain insights into professional practice, and build valuable industry connections.
The Society also supports academic welfare initiatives, including providing printed copies of essential standard documents. These initiatives help ensure that students have equitable access to important resources required throughout their academic journey.
Celebrating Talent, Art & Culture
BESS provides a platform where students can discover and express their talents beyond the academic environment.
Sithuwili
Sithuwili is a dedicated talent showcase celebrating the creativity and diverse abilities of Quantity Surveying undergraduates.
From music and dance to art, photography, and other creative expressions, Sithuwili gives students a stage to share talents that may never be visible within the classroom.
The event has become a vibrant part of student life, with annual episodes organised by Quantity Surveying students with the valued support of the Quantity Surveying Alumni Association (QSAA), University of Moratuwa.
Sarasavi Gee Sisila
Sarasavi Gee Sisila is the landmark classical music extravaganza of the University of Moratuwa.
Initiated by the 5th Quantity Surveying Batch in 1993, the event has grown into a cherished tradition associated with the Department of Building Economics.
Its significance extends beyond music and performance. Through its philanthropic purpose, proceeds from the event contribute towards scholarships and financial assistance for students of the Department.
For generations of students, Sarasavi Gee Sisila has demonstrated how creativity, tradition, and compassion can come together to make a meaningful difference.
Sports, Recreation & Togetherness
Annual Cricket Encounter
The Annual Cricket Encounter brings together students from different academic years in a spirit of friendly competition.
More than a sporting event, it encourages teamwork, sportsmanship, camaraderie, and interaction across batches, strengthening the sense of community within the Department.
Pirith Ceremony
The Pirith Ceremony is a traditional Buddhist chanting event organised by BESS to foster spiritual reflection and invoke blessings upon the Department, its academic staff, students, and the wider community.
Dansala
Dansala is a community-oriented charitable initiative led by the incoming first-year batch. While serving the wider university community by distributing food and refreshments, the event also gives new students an early opportunity to experience teamwork, leadership, responsibility, and collective action.
Developing People, Not Just Professionals
Through its wide range of activities, BESS provides students with opportunities to:
- Develop leadership and teamwork skills
- Build confidence and communication abilities
- Engage with industry and professional practitioners
- Discover and develop creative talents
- Build friendships across academic years
- Participate in sports, cultural and social activities
- Develop a sense of responsibility towards the community
- Create meaningful and lasting university memories
Our Legacy, Our Future
Built by generations of students, BESS carries forward a rich legacy of traditions, friendships, achievements, and shared experiences, while embracing new ideas to meet the changing needs of students and the profession.
As the built environment continues to evolve through technology, digitalisation, sustainability, and innovation, BESS remains committed to nurturing confident, responsible, creative, and future-ready professionals.
Through its diverse initiatives, BESS connects students with one another, the profession, and the wider community, creating opportunities to learn, grow, contribute, and build lasting memories.
BESS is where students come together, talents emerge, friendships grow, and future professionals begin their journey.
Get in Touch
Building Economics Students’ Society (BESS)
Department of Building Economics
University of Moratuwa
Sri Lanka
Telephone: +94770207502
WhatsApp: +94770207502
Email: beconbess@gmail.com