Malintha Fernando of the Department of Building Economics made history at the General Convocation 2025 of the University of Moratuwa by becoming the first student ever to receive both the Vidya Jyothi Professor Dayantha S. Wijeyesekere Award for the Most Outstanding Graduand of the University of Moratuwa and the Deshamanya Dr Roland Silva Award for the Most Outstanding Faculty of Architecture Graduand of the Year. Throughout his university journey, Malintha has demonstrated exceptional dedication to academics and research.
He has authored numerous research papers, including publications in Q1 and Q2 journals, as well as indexed books and conference proceedings, contributing significantly to the advancement of knowledge in Building Economics and related fields. On the international stage, he has received eight major awards, including the prestigious Robin Jones Award 2024 by the Chartered Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors (CICES) and two accolades from the Pacific Association of Quantity Surveyors (PAQS). He was also recognised as Best Presenter at the 2nd International Conference on University-Industry Collaborations for Sustainable Development and both the 17th and 18th International Research Conferences of Faculty of Architecture Research Unit (FARU). Additionally, he became the Most Outstanding Secretary for RI District 3220 (Sri Lanka and Maldives) for the RI Year 2022-2023, highlighting his leadership and global service contributions. Malintha’s leadership and engagement span multiple clubs and societies. He has served as Secretary (2022-23) and Vice President - Administration (2023-24) of the Rotaract Club of University of Moratuwa, Secretary of the Gavel Club of University of Moratuwa (2023-24), Vice President Membership of the Rajagiriya Toastmasters Club (2022-23), and Editor (English) of the Building Economics Students’ Society (2024-25). He has played major roles in numerous university, national, and international projects and events, hosting and moderating panel discussions, organising events, and actively contributing to over 100 initiatives. Complementing his academic and leadership achievements, Malintha has won more than ten national-level contests in public speaking, case studies, and marketing. He also became the first student from the Department of Building Economics to win a Speech Olympiad Contest. He has also actively participated in sports and completed over 100 voluntary service projects, reflecting his commitment to holistic development and social impact.
