Explorer series is a webinar which is annually organized by the Research for Undergraduates Club of Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Moratuwa.

This event focuses on a specific area of the chemical and process industries and discusses the future trends of development encouraging new and existing research opportunities. Also, this event aims to enhance students’ awareness of possible areas of the industry to engage in and raise their interest in research and development. The last panel discussion session, Explorer 2.4 was held in 2021. 5 personalities from both academia and industry joined the panel discussion to share their insights on the topic “Future Prospects of Sri Lankan Food Industry”.This event focuses on a specific area of the chemical and process industries and discusses the future trends of development encouraging new and existing research opportunities. Also, this event aims to enhance students’ awareness of possible areas of the industry to engage in and raise their interest in research and development. The last panel discussion session, Explorer 2.4 was held in 2021. 5 personalities from both academia and industry joined the panel discussion to share their insights on the topic “Future Prospects of Sri Lankan Food Industry”.

This year R4U club hosted Explorer 4.1, an informative webinar on "Energy Security and the Transition towards Clean Energy: A Sri Lankan Perspective" on the 25th of February 2023, via ZOOM platform. The event was gracefully compered by Ms. Navodya Hannadige, a final-year undergraduate and Mr. Gavin Senerathna, a first-year undergraduate of the department. The proceedings began with the welcome speech, delivered by the president of the club, Ms. Gagani Pathirage. Then, esteemed guest, Professor Udayanga Hemapala, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Moratuwa delivered his speech. The Senior treasurer Dr. Thilini Ariydasa addressed the gathering representing the club. Then, the Head of the department Prof. Santha Egodage’s speech, who was unable to be present at the event was read by an executive board member of the club.

Dr. Priyantha Wijayatunga (Chief, Energy Sector Group, Asian Development Bank) graced the occasion as the keynote speaker, with Prof. Ajith de Alwis (Dean, Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Moratuwa), Mr. Ranjith Sepala (Chairman, Sri Lanka Sustainable Energy Authority), Mr. Ronald Comester (Deputy General Manager, Research and Development Branch, Ceylon Electricity Board), and Mr. Randika Wijekoon (Research Engineer, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, USA) in attendance as panel members.

The panel discussion briefly addressed the current economic crisis in Sri Lanka and how renewable energy projects can secure the future of the country.  The possibility of transitioning 100% clean and green energy, energy grid systems, and energy integration for the future were discussed by the panelists. Furthermore, energy policy responses to energy security risks in Sri Lanka were addressed.

The session concluded with a dynamic Q&A session between the panelists and our enthusiastic audience.