In an effort to foster academic collaboration and explore new opportunities for polymer science graduates, Prof. Manit Nithitanakul, Associate Dean (Academic Affairs) of The Petroleum & Petrochemical College at Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok, Thailand, recently paid a visit to the Department of Polymer Science.
During his visit, Prof. Nithitanakul engaged in discussions with the Vice Chancellor of the university, the academic staff members and students of the Department of Polymer Science. The primary focus of the meeting was to explore potential collaborations that could enhance the academic and research endeavors of both institutions.
One significant outcome of the discussions was the exploration of postgraduate opportunities for graduates from the Department of Polymer Science at the Petroleum & Petrochemical College. Prof. Nithitanakul elaborated on the various programs and research initiatives available at Chulalongkorn University, aiming to provide polymer science graduates with a platform to further their education and research in a global academic setting.
Prof. Nithitanakul expressed enthusiasm about the prospect of a strengthened partnership between the Department of Polymer Science and the Petroleum & Petrochemical College. As both entities work towards fostering innovation and excellence in polymer science, this collaborative venture is poised to make a significant impact on the academic and research landscape of both institutions.
In a resounding testament to excellence, the Department of Polymer Science proudly celebrates the exceptional achievements of its talented students. Their unwavering dedication and innovative ideas highlight the department’s commitment to fostering brilliance and innovation in the realm of polymer science. We proudly present the remarkable accomplishments of these outstanding individuals whose groundbreaking work continues to push the frontiers of scientific exploration.
Dilusha Jayanidu De Silva – Securing the 2nd Runner-Up position in the Inter-University Undergraduate Research Competition in Chemical Sciences 2023, organized by section E2 of the Sri Lankan Association for the Advancement of Science (SLAAS). Dinusha Jayanidu de Silva’s contributions showcased remarkable insights and innovation in the field.
Thisitha Saveen Jayaweera – Recognized with the esteemed “Best Presenter Award” in the Oral Presentation category at the prestigious International Conference on Applied and Pure Sciences 2023, organized by the Faculty of Science, University of Kelaniya. Thusitha Jayaweera’s presentation demonstrated exceptional excellence and impact within the scientific community.
These extraordinary achievements underscore not only the exceptional capabilities of these students but also the Department of Polymer Science’s unwavering dedication to nurturing and empowering future leaders in the field. As students continue to chart new territories and contribute significantly to scientific knowledge in polymer science, their remarkable accomplishments bring pride to the Department of Polymer Science and reinforce its commitment to advancing the boundaries of scientific understanding in this dynamic field.
Two of our first-year students following the PST/CHE/PHY Combination, Thisal Vitharana and Rukshika Fernando have won the first place at an innovation competition organized by the European Union and Dilmah, held on 15th December 2023. The competition was named ‘Sustainable Climate Action Challenge 2023’. Our students invented a smart recycling bin that can identify plastics and segregate them into different compartments. They have given the name ‘EcoSort’ to their invention and it has obtained very good comments from the judges and audience.
Our students got only six weeks to prepare a ‘Prototype’ and to come up with a business plan for the product. Our two first year students have succeeded beyond expectations by lifting the name of Faculty of Applied Sciences, USJ to the top, competing with participants from other universities comprising final year students. Dr. Dhammika Weerathunga from the Department of Polymer Science and Mr. Dhanushka Dharmasiri from the Department of Physics mentored the students. Mr. M. Priyantha, Technical Officer at the Department of Physics helped them to realize the prototype.
Dr. Dhammika Weerathunga (far-left), Rukshika Fernando (second from the left), Prof. Upul Subasinghe Deen of the FAS (middle), Thisal Vitharana (second from the right) and Mr. Dhanushka Dharmasiri (far-right) with the invention.
Date: October 23, 2023Marking a significant leap towards enhancing knowledge and expertise in the field of glove manufacturing, a comprehensive training program was successfully conducted by Dr. Dhammika Weerathunga, from the Department of Polymer Science. The two-day event, held on October 21st and 22nd, 2023, provided valuable insights into glove manufacturing, identification of defects, and troubleshooting methods.
Eight eager participants, including six representatives from Ansell Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, actively participated in the two-day training program. Dr. Weerathunga’s extensive experience and expertise in the industry added a unique dimension to the training, offering participants a deep dive into the depths of glove manufacturing.
During the hands-on sessions, participants prepared gloves by themselves, while being aware of the various stages involved in the large-scale industrial production process. The training program covered a spectrum of topics, ranging from raw material selection to the final quality assurance processes. The emphasis on practical learning allowed participants to grasp the nuances of glove manufacturing and troubleshooting potential challenges that may arise during the production.
In an era where quality control and product safety are paramount, Dr. Dhammika Weerathunga’s training program has undoubtedly empowered participants with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the competitive landscape of glove manufacturing.
The successful completion of this training program marks a milestone in the ongoing pursuit of excellence in the individual’s personal development. After the completion, participants who did not possess a knowledge regarding the manufacturing process of gloves previously have been fully armed with theoretical and practical aspects, making them highly attractive candidates as employees among glove industry. The participants who came from glove manufacturing industries also could gain a thorough knowledge about the reasons for their daily plant practices. Successful participants will carry with them not only a wealth of new knowledge but also a renewed enthusiasm to contribute to the advancement of the industry.
The next training program is scheduled to be conducted on 17th and 18th of February 2023. Next time the training program will include ‘balloon manufacturing’ as well. Balloon manufacturing is very easy to start as a cottage industry. People who are willing to start their own start-up manufacturing industry are mostly welcome to our next ‘Training Program on Glove & Balloon Manufacturing’. The program will be conducted in Sinhala medium, and all the handouts will be given in Sinhala. Anyone who passed Grade 8 school examinations can join this training program. For further inquiries please contact Dr. Sulashi Samarasinghe, sulashisama@sjp.ac.lk, 076-5603885.
Dr. Dhammika Weerathunga conducting the training program
Participants preparing the gloves by themselves
Participants with their prepared gloves in front of themParticipants with their certificates
