Laying the foundation of a new era in university education, as the only entrepreneurial university Uva Wellassa University has always taken the initiation in introducing novel and unique ideas to the knowledge base. Taking a colossal step in university education, the Department of Science and Technology of Uva Wellassa University of Sri Lanka proudly organised the first robotic competition, UWU ROBOT BATTLES 2016 which was held gloriously at Uva wellasssa University premises on 1st October 2016 with the involvement of participants from well recognized schools island wide and many Sri Lankan Universities.
The Robotic competition was steered under two categories as SCHOOL CHALLENGE and OPEN CHALLENGE giving two different tasks for those who were interested in robotics, island wide. School Teams were challenged to design and build a robot to follow a line and perform a specified task under competition rules and time limits while the Open Challenge was to develop a manually controlled Battle Robot with the ability to fight with the opponent in a specific arena. This challenge was introduced in Sri Lankan history for the first time by UWU. The advanced skills of participants were tested as they were required to complete a higher task in a challenging environment in different ways. As this is the first competition, it’s honored to say that forty six robots under the OPEN CHALLENGE and twenty eight under SCHOOL CHALLENGE combated with each other for one trophy.
The first place of the open battle was won by the University of Vocational technology, Moratuwa after an audacious battle making the University of Jaffna, the 1st runners up. And University of Moratuwa won the third place after a challenging battle. Meanwhile, Kurunegala Maliyadewa College won the first place in the school challenge while Bandarawela St. Josephs College and Medagama Secondary School got second and third places respectively.
Trophies, certificates and cash prices were awarded for winners of both open and school competitions and all the participants were awarded with certificates in appreciation with their efforts in accepting the challenge.
Making this competition a reality an immense number of people contributed, thousands of volunteer hours offering their support and hard work. The valuable knowledge and experience of the judge panel was vital in making this competition a success. Notably, this competition would never be a reality without the enormous support of the sponsors who played a crucial role in provision of financial and logistic support. Through their financial gifts, volunteer activities, and so much more, the contestants have enriched the experience and the ability to make a difference in the world with their knowledge in technology.
The Chancellor, Most Venerable Bengamuwe Sri Dammadinna Nayaka Thero, the Vice Chancellor, Dr. Gamini Chandreasena were the guiding lights of this journey. And Dr. K.W.S.N. Kumari as the coordinator of the UWU Robot Battles 2016 laid the foundation and provided guidance throughout the whole event. UWU academic staff and graduates of UWU and present students the Department of Science and Technology contributed immeasurably in achieving this common gaol. And all the other academic staff, administrative staff and minor staff and undergraduates of Uva Wellassa University have contributed in making this this one-of-a-kind program a success. Apart from the university community, individuals and corporations have provided their enormous support and assistance.
This unique event is a milestone on the path that can generate individuals of high quality Mechatronic and it is a path that will continue in the future of UWU.
Dr. K.W.S.N. Kumari
Coordinator/ UWU Robot Battles 2016
Department of Science & Technology
