The Survey Camp for the 21-Batch, organized by the Department of Civil Engineering at the University of Moratuwa, was successfully conducted in two informative and engaging phases with the support of the both academic and non-academic staff of the department. This camp was designed to strengthen students’ theoretical knowledge and develop practical skills in surveying through structured academic sessions and real-world applications.
Phase 1 was conducted at the department premises from June 16th to 20th, 2025. During this phase, students revisited core surveying concepts and developed hands-on proficiency with conventional surveying instruments and methods. The focus was on reinforcing fundamental techniques such as levelling, traversing, contouring, and setting out, allowing students to build confidence in using equipment like total stations and theodolites in a controlled academic environment.
Phase 2 was conducted at the Kothmale International Training Institute of Irrigation and Water Management from June 24th to July 1st, 2025. Students were divided into twelve groups and assigned six different projects that simulated real-world engineering applications, including road alignment, community resettlement, township development, reservoir capacity enhancement, university development, and the cabana resort project. These projects required students to apply their classroom knowledge in the field, encouraging teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving in a practical setting.
A key component of Phase 2 was the inclusion of two field visits to major infrastructure sites: the Moragolla Hydropower Project and the Kothmale Dam. These visits provided valuable exposure to real-world applications of civil engineering and surveying practices in large-scale projects. Students gained insights into hydropower generation, dam operations, and the role of survey data in planning, monitoring, and maintaining such infrastructure. These experiences added depth to their learning and emphasized the importance of precision and planning in the engineering profession.
The successful completion of the 21-Batch Survey Camp reflects the commitment of the department for experiential learning. By blending classroom instruction with practical fieldwork and exposure to national infrastructure, the camp effectively prepared students for the dynamic challenges of the civil engineering field. The skills and experiences gained during this camp will serve as a strong foundation for their future academic and professional pursuits.
