In a landmark collaboration bridging academia and national aviation, the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Peradeniya hosted the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) for the official handover of an AN-32B Aircraft Engine on February 23, 2026. The ceremony, commencing at the Prof. E.O.E. Pereira Theatre, marks a significant upgrade to the department’s practical instructional resources, providing “Pera Mech” undergraduates with unparalleled, hands-on exposure to military-grade aviation technology.
Beyond the formal handover, the event featured an exclusive, in-depth technical session conducted by SLAF engineering experts. Students were treated to a comprehensive introductory lecture on modern aeronautical engineering, followed by a live, detailed demonstration of the AN-32B engine’s core mechanics at the department premises. By securing physical aerospace assets of this caliber, the Department of Mechanical Engineering continues to solidify its commitment to delivering world-class, experiential learning and preparing its graduates to lead in the aerospace and defense sectors.
