The 64th annual sessions of the SLAAS commenced yesterday at the BMICH. This time the focal theme of the sessions is "Science for Sustainable Use of Water Resources". The ceremonial inauguration was presided over by Science and Technology Minister Prof. Tissa Vitharana. Prof. A. Chatt (Adjunct Professor of Chemistry, Canada), Prof. J. V. Narlikar (Emeritus Professor, India), Prof. Thor Axel Stenstrom (Chief Mircrobiologist, Sweden) were also present at the occasion as guests of honour.

"Water is a very sensitive issue. There were wars recorded in some countries for waters. The water is a part of the economic development," he said.

Prof. Gunawardhana said that there were over 35,000 tanks in Sri Lanka to store water. But, now it has reduced gradually due to the massive urbanization and increase of population. There is a need to aware the next generation on the importance of water. The SLAAS annual sessions will focus this year on the issue.

The theme seminar (‘Science for Sustainable Use of Water Resources’) of SLAAS annual sessions this year will be held today from 8.00 am to 5.00 p.m. at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute, Colombo 07. The Scientific Sessions will follow from December 3-6 at the University of Colombo.