Diesel and Motor Engineering (DIMO) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Moratuwa (UoM) to conduct research in driving and road safety. The MoU was signed between Ranjith Pandithage, Chairman/CEO – DIMO and Professor Ananda Jayawardane, Vice-Chancellor – University of Moratuwa.
The research will be carried out by the Department of Transport and Logistics Management of the University of Moratuwa led by Senior Professor Amal Kumarage. DIMO is establishing a Driver Training Institute in Sooriyawewa, which is scheduled to open in mid 2012. The research findings will be used in developing a modern state-of-the-art driver training programme for experienced drivers as well as for beginners. It will include research into driver training requirements, and new and innovative driving techniques for local and International conditions. The research findings will enable driver training to be conducted scientifically and practically in order to be made more relevant and effective.
Approximately 2,500 road traffic fatalities occur every year. Nearly 300,000 accidents take place, most of which go unreported to Police. Annual cost of such accidents exceeds Rs 36 billion according to the Department of Transport and Logistics Management. During the signing Ranjith Pandithage stated, “We are proud to partner with an institution such as the University of Moratuwa. Their research findings will undoubtedly enable DIMO to design timely, relevant and practical courses at the Driving and Technical Institute to international standards”.
A L J Sadique, Registrar, T Sivakumar, Head of Department of Transport and Logistics Management, Professor Rahula Attalage, S N Bentotage, Dr Himan Punchihewa and Ranil Sugathadasa represented the University while Suresh Gooneratne, Director, Ananda Mapalagama, GM, Donald De Silva, Manager – DIMO Automobile Training School and Prabodha Silva, Business Development Manager – represented DIMO at the signing.
