In 1985 the NTTTC (National technical teachers training college) and Technical education unit of ministry of education conducted a survey on workforce.

It was found that the ratio of chartered engineers to middle level engineers is 1:3. However according to the statics it would be 1:5:20, the ratio of chartered engineers, middle level engineers and technicians respectively. Therefore the authority figures realized that they should introduce a new course to bring forward middle level engineers. During that time the authorities were able to know about a HNDE course, which last for 2 years of time from England. At the same time they understood that they can’t initiate the course in Sri Lanka directly. Due to the problems associated with language & facilities the course was extended to 3 ½ years which was then initiated as a preliminary course in Sri Lanka with the approval of the BOLTON university - England and was funded by the ADB Ratmalana.