Surveying Field Camp

The Survey Camp is a compulsory component of the Civil Engineering curriculum and remains one of the most significant outstation programs conducted for engineering undergraduates of the University of Peradeniya. Although accreditation teams have consistently emphasized its importance as both a practice and a requirement, the camp could not be organized in recent years due to several constraints. With the initiative of the Head of the Department, the program was successfully held this year at the Kotmale International Training Institute from 18th to 28th August 2025. A total of 123 students participated, supported by 13 student instructors.
The camp was coordinated by Dr. Jayalath Edirisinghe (Overall Coordinator), with specific responsibilities assigned to staff members: Dr. Rasika Athapaththu (Technical), Dr. Lashitha Rathnayake (Food), Dr. Supun Jayasinghe (Transport), Dr. Sahan Bandara (Accommodation), Dr. Chathurani (Health and Safety), and Dr. Samal Dharmarathna (Logistics).
Over the 10-day program, students gained valuable knowledge in project planning, work distribution, progress monitoring, and handling of survey instruments. Practical training included control surveys, detailed surveys, levelling, and a challenging setting-out exercise. Living and working in an unfamiliar environment also enhanced adaptability, teamwork, and problem-solving skills key attributes for civil engineers.
The camp concluded with a campfire ceremony, graced by the Dean, faculty staff, their families, and members of the Kotmale Institute. We record our sincere appreciation to all who contributed to the successful organization of this important academic event.