On August 15, 2024, the Department of Marine Engineering at General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) hosted its Department Industry Consultative Board meeting in the FDSS Board Room. This significant event brought together 20 esteemed professionals from both the academic and maritime industry sectors to discuss and align the department’s academic programs with the evolving needs of the maritime industry.
The Consultative Board meeting aimed to foster collaboration between academia and industry, ensuring that KDU’s Marine Engineering curriculum remains relevant and cutting-edge. Further, the professionals given various insights on uplifting both Marine and Naval Architecture & Marine degree programmes. The professionals in attendance, representing various maritime organizations and institutions, shared their insights on current industry trends, technological advancements, and workforce demands. Their feedback is instrumental in shaping the department's strategic direction, course offerings, and research initiatives.
This collaboration highlights KDU’s commitment to producing graduates who are not only academically proficient but also equipped with the practical skills necessary to excel in the maritime industry. By engaging with industry experts, the Department of Marine Engineering continues to enhance the quality of its educational programs, ensuring that its students are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the global maritime sector.
The Industry Participants are as follows.
Prof JP Karunadasa - Kotelawala Defence University
Prof Indika Perera - University of Moratuwa
Dr. WK Wimalsiri - SLIIT
Dr. Priyantha Bandara - SLIIT
Mr. Sanjeewa Jayathilake - CDPLC
Mr. Thisara Hewawasam - CPLC
Mr. Jagath A Kumara - Sri Lanka Ports Authority
Mr. Sriyan S Hewawasam - Marine Surveyor - American Bureau of Shipping (ABS)
Mr. Eranga Jayathilake - CDPLC
Mr. Lewin Dearborn Samarasinghe - MAN Energy Solutions
Mr. Ruwantha De Seram - Nikini Automation Pvt Ltd
Mr. Chathura Gunasekara - Dimo PLC
Mr. Jostien Viksund - Jostein Viksund Design & Model Center (Pvt) Ltd
Dr. Awantha Gunarathne - Mahasen Marine Pvt Ltd
Mr. Gamini B Herath - Boat Building Technology Improvement Institute Lanka
Cmde(E) Hasantha Dassanaike - Sri Lanka Navy
Mr. R Manoranjan - CDPLC
Mr. Gayan Perera - Lloyds Registry
Mr. Eranga Peiris - Dhanusha Marine Pvt Ltd
Mr. Earling Viksund - Jostein Viksund Design & Model Center (Pvt) Ltd
