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BESS, University of Moratuwa

More than a student society

The Building Economics Students’ Society is the undergraduate society of the Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa. It brings Quantity Surveying undergraduates together for academic development, professional exposure, welfare, creativity, sport and community.

BESS members gathered for a group photo under the BESS sign

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 was founded in 1983.

With the introduction of the BSc (Hons) in Facilities Management in 2006, the student community expanded to include both Quantity Surveying and Facilities Management students, and the society became the Building Economics Students’ Society.

Following the establishment of a separate Department of Facilities Management in 2022, BESS has continued from 2026 onwards as the undergraduate 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.

43 years in the making

Read the full story

  1. 1983

    The department opens

    The Department of Building Economics is established, and with it the Quantity Surveying Student Society.

  2. 1993

    Gee Sisila begins

    The 5th Quantity Surveying batch stages the first Sarasavi Gee Sisila.

  3. 2006

    The society becomes BESS

    Facilities Management students join, and the society becomes the Building Economics Students’ Society.

  4. 2022

    Facilities Management moves on

    A separate Department of Facilities Management is established.

  5. 2026

    BESS today

    BESS continues as the society of Quantity Surveying undergraduates in the Department of Building Economics.

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.

What we commit to

  • Academic and professional developmentSupporting Quantity Surveying students as they prepare for the built environment profession.
  • Learning beyond the classroomOpportunities, guidance, knowledge sharing and student-led initiatives.
  • Student welfareIncluding assistance for students facing financial difficulties.
  • Talent, creativity and participationIn social, cultural, sporting and extracurricular activities.
  • Pathways to professional opportunitiesThrough career guidance, industry engagement, networking and employment-related initiatives.

Executive committee

Term 2026/27

  • Dr. Dilani Abeynayake, Senior Treasurer

    Senior Treasurer

    Dr. Dilani Abeynayake