In a remarkable demonstration of alumni commitment, the B.Sc. Engineering 80/84 batch of the University of Moratuwa has completed its 2025 CSR project, the full-scale renovation of the student study space popularly known as “Apaaya.”
Originally a barely usable basement beneath the University’s main Library, Apaaya had evolved over the years into an ad-hoc study zone.
The idea of the CSR project was to provide a space not just brick, walls and furniture but an environment where young minds can thrive, a space that encourages discipline, growth, and the pursuit of excellence. With a budget of Rs. 5.0 Mn, raised through donations from 77 alumni, the team delivered a comprehensive transformation:
- Ventilation & Comfort: New mosquito mesh, additional ceiling fans, and improved airflow systems turned the uncomfortable space into a breathable study area.
- Lighting & Electricals: A complete overhaul brought uniform LED lighting and a re-wired electrical layout, including additional sockets and upgraded fittings.
- Painting: Comprehensive painting of walls, columns, slab soffits, and spiral staircases.
- Separate group study room: Construction of a new half partition separate room for tutorials and group studies, complete with a 6ft x 4ft whiteboard.
- Aesthetic & Functional Upgrades: From new partitions and upgraded washrooms to restored rock walls decoration and colourful and creative Anamorphic Graphic art work, the space was redesigned to be both functional and inspiring.
- Switch and Regulator Identification System: A Color-coded and numbered labelling system introduced for ease of use and better equipment handling, which greatly improved the identification of fan and bulb switches of the space.
- Maintenance Alert system: A QR-based alert system was implemented to ensure long-term upkeep via the University help desk.
This initiative stands as a glowing example of how alumni can tangibly uplift current student experiences. What was once “Apaaya”, a place of discomfort, is now a vibrant, functional, and inviting space for learning and collaboration, thanks to the vision and generosity of the 80/84 batch. New furniture for the study space was provided by the University.
The B.Sc. Engineering 80/84 batch has also been offering an annual scholarship to a first year student in the Faculty of Engineering since 2020.
