Several Skill development programs were successfully conducted for students at the Division of Polymer and Chemical Engineering Technology via online platform. The first program was launched for students of semester II with the objective of creating an inspirational influence on students to acquire and utilize soft skills during the university time before they engage with the industrial environment. The program was launched in four interactive sessions from 27th May to 10th July 2021 under the guidance of six resource persons who are at the top position of leading industries. They conducted valuable interactive discussions to motivate the students on the topics such as “Young leaders beyond 2021”, “Innovation and sustainable production”, “Let difficulties know that you are difficult”, “Master your skills”, “The key to success” and “Your mindset at work”. Students and the staff members of other divisions were also granted the opportunity to participate the program. Participants were highly motivated by experience and knowledge of resource persons and most of future job related issues of students were clarified in the discussion. The second session of the program will be organized in the ITUM premises once the students arrive at the university for their studies. This program will be conducted with the objective to improve the communication skills, presentation skills, teamwork and career planning. Further, there will be a closing ceremony and distribution of certificates based on their performance.
Another skill development program, “Bridge the gap between the university environment and the industrial context” was conducted from 22nd to 31st August 2021 for students of semester IV Polymer Technology in three phases via virtual platform. Four industrial experts in the polymer field who have NDT background conducted the program. They committed their valuable time to enrich their youngsters in many contexts including the responsibility of the students during the university life, enhancement of soft skills, future trends in polymer technology and career development opportunities to compete successfully with the industrial demands.
Furthermore, “Manufacturing Excellence” program was organized on 5th December 2021 for both Chemical Engineering Technology and Polymer technology students who are in semester III via virtual platform. This program was conducted to support students to elevate their knowledge on world class manufacturing for them to perform better at the industry after their graduation. There were two resource persons who conduct the program; Mr. Indika Kumara Gamage, Senior Manager from Unilever Sri Lanka (Pvt) Ltd and Mr. Praveen Gunaratne, Safety, health and environmental manager from Ceylon Biscuit Ltd.
