Went to Kiev, Ukraine, immediately after the A/Ls, and completed a MSc in Chemical Engineering in 1987. Then left for Norway and did a PhD in Environmental Engineering in 1991. Have been employed at the Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA) since then. At present serving as the Director of Innovation at NIVA and also as a Professor in Water and Wastewater Technology at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences. Engaged in development and implementation of water related Development Aid projects in many countries, including a couple of projects in Sri Lanka. Last few years started to focus on innovation and commercialisation of R&D. Has represented Norway in various international forums (Unesco, etc). Married to Chandani who is an Architect at the University of Oslo and the only son Dinindu who intends to start his university in 2008. Have initiated a number of scholarship schemes for school- and university students in SL, both with private and company/organisational funds. Have been visiting SL in every July, otherwise residing in Oslo, Norway.
