On November 11th and 12th, 2024, the Department of Physics, in partnership with the Staff Development Centre at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, held an intensive workshop titled “Mastering Technical Leadership and Career Growth: Skills Beyond the Toolbox”. The event took place at the Department of Physics and was aimed at Technical Officers from the Faculties of Applied Sciences, Technology, and Engineering. The workshop offered essential training to advance participants’ careers and prepare them for leadership roles.
The workshop was organized and overseen by Prof. Shantha Gamage, Head of the Department of Physics. Dr. Shivaini Kandeepan, the Workshop Coordinator, played a key role in ensuring the program’s smooth execution, contributing significantly to the event’s success. The initiative was launched by Prof. Upul Subasinghe, Dean of the Faculty of Applied Sciences, who recognized the need for skills development beyond traditional technical training of the Technical officers of the Faculty of Applied Sciences. Prof. Saman Yapa, Director of the Staff Development Centre, provided crucial financial support for the program.
The two-day workshop was structured into four sessions, with participants divided into groups that rotated through each session over both days. This format ensured that all attendees had ample time to explore each topic, engage in hands-on activities, and interact closely with instructors. The sessions were designed to equip Technical Officers with the skills needed to assume leadership roles in their respective fields. Topics included: Lab Safety and Equipment Inventory Maintenance, Fundamental Measuring Instruments in Physics and Engineering; Principles, Uses, and Accuracy, Fundamentals of Electronics; House Wiring, Solar Panel Installation; and Workshop Training
The workshop began with an introductory lecture by Dr. Manuranga Fernando on multimeters, which laid a solid foundation for the following sessions. Dr. Fernando’s lecture introduced participants to the fundamental operation and various uses of multimeters, a key instrument for measuring electrical values. This knowledge is crucial for accurate measurements and troubleshooting in technical and engineering environments, establishing a solid base for hands-on training.
The first session provided a detailed overview of key instruments used in educational and research settings. Prof. Lilani Attygalle and Dr. W.G.C. Wijayasundara delivered an insightful lecture on Measuring Instruments and Instrument Maintenance. Their session emphasized accurate measurement and proper maintenance practices to ensure the reliability and precision of lab equipment. Participants received practical training on handling and calibrating measuring instruments, along with strategies for routine maintenance. Hands-on experience was provided with Vernier Calipers, Traveling Microscopes, Micrometer Screw Gauges, Balances, and Speedometers.
The second session offered a strong foundation in electronics, preparing participants for more advanced work in electronics and embedded systems. Mr. R.A.D. Dharmasiri and Mr. K.S. Mannathunga presented an engaging lecture on the Fundamentals of Electronics, covering everything from basic components to essential circuit design. Practical experience included identifying common electronic components, building and connecting simple circuits, PCB (Printed Circuit Board) design, and an introduction to Arduino programming.
The third session focused on practical skills in solar panel installation and basic home wiring. Prof. Indika Wanniarachchi and Dr. W.W.P. De Silva led a session on House Wiring and Solar System Installation, giving participants a thorough understanding of modern wiring techniques and the principles of solar energy systems. This session was especially relevant as it provided technical officers with knowledge of sustainable energy solutions—a rapidly growing field in modern engineering and technology.
The final session offered hands-on training in metalworking, manufacturing, and mechanical engineering. Prof. Duleepa Pitigala provided guidance on workshop safety and essential protective gear, including helmets, welding masks, gloves, safety boots, and goggles. Participants received hands-on training in handling lathe machines, the fundamentals of arc welding, safe practices to prevent injuries, and milling machine operations. Additionally, there was a comprehensive demonstration on internal combustion engines, covering how engines convert fuel into mechanical energy, common engine problems, basic maintenance, and repair strategies. Mr. O.K.D. Priyantha and Mr. B.K. Chaminda assisted in demonstrating the equipment.
A team of dedicated demonstrators from the Department—Ms. U.A.D.P. Bhagya, Ms. H.L.P.M. Panchanie, Ms. M.S.F. Musfiqa, Mr. M.D.D.S. Senevirathna, Ms. A.M.N. Opayangana, Mr. M.I. Muhammed, Ms. A.G.S. Sandumini, Mr. M.A.N. Kumanjana, Mr. J.R.R. Wickramasinghe, Ms. P.V.T. Prarthana, Mr. K.P.R.V. Silva, W.M.D.M. Wickramasinghe, Mr. B.T. Kumarage, Ms. K.M. Munasinghe, Ms. J.B.D.A. Dharmasooriya, and Mr. T.R.M.P.H. Rathnayake—provided invaluable support throughout all four sessions, ensuring smooth demonstrations and effective learning experiences.
The Department of Physics expresses its deep appreciation to all lecturers, demonstrators technical officers and lab attendants who contributed their time, expertise, and support to this initiative. Their collective efforts provided an enriching learning experience, reinforcing the University of Sri Jayewardenepura’s commitment to the professional development of its technical staff.
