Technology transfer to local profesionals through Uma Oya project , A case study

Abstract

Economic growth of a country is linked with the construction industry. Advancement of construction industry is depend on the degree of transformation of technology in to the field. Therefore it is important to understand deeply the best practices in Technology Transfer (TT) by examining significant areas of enablers and hallmarks. During the past few decades, number of major projects were completed by foreign contractors linking with domestic contractors in various approaches such as joint ventures, partnerships and sub contracts, as well at present large number of foreign firms are involved in major construction projects in the country. Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract of Uma Oya Multipurpose Development Project (UOMDP) is awarded to FARAB. Though FARAB use new technology, there is a doubt whether appropriate TT benefits will acquire through this contract? Therefore this research was carried out with the objectives of identifying barriers exist in technology transfer to local construction industry through the foreign contract and proposing of strategies to enhance the level of technology transfer to local construction industry from foreign contractors working in Sri Lankan projects. Scope of this research is limited to level of TT to local professionals directly engaged in project activities. Hence carried out interviews with twenty six numbers of senior, middle and junior level professionals working in the project. Collected data was analyzed by Suitability, Acceptability, Feasibility (SAF) model and recommendations were summarized. As a result of deep study through the case, lack of joint venturing (JV) , lack of involvement of junior engineers and insufficient involvement of higher educational institutes are within the finding mentioned in the conclusion. Increase of involvement of local contractors through JVs, giving priority to TT clauses in the formation of EPC contracts, opening of TT offices in the Universities and improvements of skill level of non-professional groups are within the recommendations. Further, responsible institutions such as Ceylon Electricity Board, Mahaweli Authority and Irrigation Department should increase the participation of their professionals covering top to bottom levels of their organizations.