Showcasing their design skills and innovative ideas, SLIIT’s Team Transformers representing the Department of Civil Engineering SLIIT – Faculty of Engineering won the 1st Place in the University Category at the ‘CONNECT – State Bridge Design Competition 2021’ held recently. This competition was conducted by the State Ministry of Rural Roads and Other Infrastructure.
Members of the winning team included M. B. N. Ahamed, H. S. M. Izzadeen, K. Jathusan, M. W. Dhilshadh Ahmadh, M. N. M. Najil, V. Vivek and M. M. Aafir. The team was awarded a cash prize of Rs 350,000 and certificates of participation.
Commenting on their experience Team Transformers members stated that, “The knowledge we gained during our undergraduate life has helped to achieve this success. We are very thankful to the staff of the Department of Civil Engineering for their tremendous support given to us throughout the journey.”
Modernizing the bridge system linked to the road network is one of the special priorities of the State Ministry with a set target of completing 2000 rural bridges. Due to numerous challenges identified in constructing the bridges, innovative engineering solutions are vital to complete the task.
The CONNECT – State Bridge Design Competition 2021 was devised under three categories – school, university and open. The University category submission requirements included presenting a comprehensive report with the design brief highlighting the innovation, architectural drawings, manual/ computer aided structural designs and technical details.
In order to fast forward and successful complete the rural bridge development programme, the organisers firmly believe the CONNECT Competition ideas effectively enhance the capabilities in their targets. In addition, the organisers noted that this competition is also scheduled to be held as an annual event. Furthermore, the organizers stated that the competition provides an excellent platform to take the University level research practices into industry and promote active knowledge sharing among all stakeholders.