Aerominds Workshop: Igniting Passion for Aviation Amongst School Children

In a dynamic showcase of academic excellence and community engagement, the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) student chapter at KDU organized the “Aerominds” workshop under the guidance of the Department of Aeronautical Engineering on April 27th and 28th, 2024. This esteemed event, meticulously curated to foster a profound appreciation for aviation among school children, marked a significant milestone in KDU’s commitment to nurturing future leaders in aerospace.

The inaugural day of the workshop unfolded within the prestigious confines of the Faculty of Graduate Studies (FGS) auditorium. Distinguished by a series of enlightening theoretical sessions related to aviation by Sri Lankan Airlines pilot Captain Melvin Kurukulasuriya, retired SLAF Fighter pilot Deshamanya Dr. (Wg Cdr) Krishantha Kapugama, retired SLAF Aeronautical Engineer Sqn Ldr Dhananjaya Karunarathne and Head of the Department Aeronautical Engineering at KDU Wg Cdr Niroshan Kiriwella, participants were immersed in the foundational principles of aviation and aeronautics. These renowned experts graced the stage, imparting invaluable insights and igniting a passion for exploration and innovation in the realm of flight.

As the dawn of day two broke, the workshop transitioned into an immersive hands-on experience, propelling participants into the realm of practical application. From exhilarating Remote Control (RC) aircraft flying sessions to insightful field visits at our esteemed university facilities, the students were provided with a firsthand glimpse into the dynamic world of aeronautical engineering. Furthermore, the students were engaged in an insightful session on career opportunities in aviation by retired SLAF engineer Wg. Cdr. Asitha Manage from Blue Skies Aviation Ltd. The pinnacle of excitement culminated in a captivating paper aircraft competition, where creativity and engineering prowess collided in a symphony of ingenuity. Under the expert guidance of our esteemed faculty and industry professionals, participants embarked on a journey of discovery and enlightenment, each moment fostering a deeper connection to the boundless possibilities of aviation. 

The program concluded with the formal giving of certificates in a ceremony by the Chief Guest, Dean, Faculty of Engineering, Prof Thushara Weerawardene, accompanied by Head of the Department, Wg Cdr Niroshan Kiriwella.