The IEEE Power & Energy Society (PES) Student Branch Chapter of General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) organised the first-ever Continuous Professional Development (CPD) Certificate Course at the Faculty of Engineering, KDU, on Power System Protection and ETAP Software, in collaboration with industry partner Amithi Power Consultant (Pvt) Ltd. 

Held from June 26 to July 13, 2025, the program consisted of six interactive online lectures followed by a hands-on physical session on July 13 at the Faculty of Engineering, KDU. 

The program featured a diverse group of participants, including KDU undergraduates and engineering students from leading universities such as the University of Moratuwa, University of Peradeniya, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, South Eastern University and SLIIT, enhancing its academic diversity. 

The course covered essential theoretical and practical components in power system protection and ETAP software. Online modules included Electrical Protection Devices, Relay Configuration & Settings, and Power System Protection using ETAP. At the same time, physical sessions focused on ETAP Software and Protection Devices, providing hands-on exposure and real-time application. 

The sessions were conducted by Amithi’s experienced engineers, including Eng. Kaushalya 

Alpitaarachchi (CEO), Mr. Haritha Kalubowila (Senior Engineer – Testing & Commissioning), Mr. Madhura Pabudanan (Electrical Engineer), and Ms. Suwithi Karunaasekara (Technical Lead, Design Division). Their dedication to practical learning and mentoring provided real-world insight throughout the sessions. 

Participants received a Certificate of Completion from Amithi Power Consultant and IEEE PES KDU. The event concluded with great enthusiasm and inspiration, signalling a strong foundation for future CPD offerings.