Written by: Rajesh Kumar

A. Thurairajah: The Pioneering Academic and Vice-Chancellor

A. Thurairajah, a revered figure in Sri Lankan academia, is best known for his remarkable tenure as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jaffna and his trailblazing contributions to the field of civil engineering.

Early Life and Education

Thurairajah was born on November 10, 1934, in Kamparmalai, northern Ceylon, to Velupillai Alagiah and Sellammah from Imaiyanan in Vadamarachchi. He received his early education at the Udupiddy American Mission College and Hartley College. After completing his school education, he enrolled at the University of Ceylon in July 1953, graduating with a BSc degree in civil engineering in 1957.

The Cambridge Connection

Thurairajah's academic pursuits led him to the University of Cambridge on a scholarship, where he worked under the guidance of renowned academic, Kenneth H. Roscoe. Between October 1958 and December 1961, Thurairajah assisted Roscoe in his research into shear properties of soils, which earned him a PhD in June 1962 with a thesis titled "Some shear properties of kaolin and of sand."

Career Highlights

• Thurairajah worked as an instructor in civil engineering at the University of Ceylon and later joined the Public Works Department as a Junior Assistant Engineer.
• He was a visiting assistant professor at the University of Waterloo and later became Professor of Civil Engineering in 1971 at the University of Ceylon.
• Thurairajah held various administrative positions, including Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at the Peradeniya Campus of the University of Sri Lanka, and Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at the Open University of Sri Lanka.

Legacy and Impact

Thurairajah's contributions to the field of civil engineering and his leadership in academia have left an indelible mark on Sri Lankan education. His commitment to excellence and his ability to inspire future generations of engineers have made him a lasting legacy in the country's academic landscape.

Personal Life

Thurairajah married Rajeswari and had three daughters and two sons. Despite his many accomplishments, he remained humble and dedicated to his family and community.

In Memoriam

A. Thurairajah passed away on June 11, 1994, leaving behind a rich legacy of academic excellence and a trail of inspired minds. His contributions to the field of civil engineering and his leadership in academia continue to inspire future generations of scholars and engineers.