Yunus Center at AIT Launches EDSMAT-3: Construction Management Training for WAPDA Officials
The Yunus Center at AIT is proud to welcome a distinguished group of officials from the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA), Pakistan, for the third edition of the Executive Development and Strategic Management Training (EDSMAT-3) program, focusing on Construction Management.
This professional development initiative, conducted from 16 to 26 June 2025, brings together 480 participants from WAPDA, making it one of the most comprehensive training cohorts to date under the EDSMAT series. The program aims to enhance the capacity of engineers, planners, and project managers engaged in Pakistan’s expanding hydropower and water infrastructure portfolio.
Strengthening Capacity for Hydropower Megaprojects
As Pakistan moves forward with its Decade of Dams, WAPDA’s infrastructure expansion includes complex, large-scale hydropower projects that demand advanced knowledge in project implementation, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable development. EDSMAT-3 is designed to address these needs through an intensive, multi-disciplinary curriculum delivered by expert faculty and practitioners.
Opening Remarks: Emphasizing Peer Learning and Transformation
The opening ceremony featured welcome addresses by key leadership from AIT and YCA.
Prof. Faiz H. Shah, Executive Director of the Yunus Center at AIT and Director of YCA, underscored the importance of cross-border collaboration and experiential learning:
“AIT and Pakistan share a strong, enduring partnership. The value of this program is not just in the teaching—but in how you ask, engage, and exchange. How often in your careers are you all in one room? This is a moment for peer learning.”
Mr. Russell Rein, Vice President for Administration (VPA), AIT, emphasized the long-term impact of the training:
“We need a transformation of change. The real outcome of this training is not just knowledge—it’s what you do with it moving forward.”
Highlights from the Weeklong Program
Course Modules and Expert Lecturers
Each day of the program tackled critical themes and practical challenges facing hydropower project development:
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Day 1: Dam Design Concepts by Dr. Suttisak Soralump
Participants explored the fundamentals of dam design, including structural types, geotechnical considerations, safety standards, and environmental impact assessments. Emphasis was placed on the application of international best practices in the context of Pakistan’s mountainous terrain and seismic zones.
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Day 2: Strategic Project Implementation and Lifecycle Management by WAPDA experts
This session focused on the hydropower project lifecycle, from conceptualization to post-construction operation. Facilitated by senior WAPDA professionals, it covered key project phases, stakeholder coordination, regulatory compliance, and risk mitigation strategies.
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Day 3: Stakeholder Communication Strategies by Dr. Sujata Bhatia
The session explored tools for stakeholder mapping, conflict resolution, and participatory planning—crucial in navigating the socio-political complexities of hydropower development.
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Day 4: Study Visit to EGAT (Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand)
Participants embarked on a field visit to the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) to gain practical insights into Thailand’s hydropower operations and energy management systems. The visit included technical briefings, infrastructure tours, and peer learning exchanges with EGAT engineers and management.
A key part of the visit’s success was the contribution of Kenithya Promsorn, who provided Thai-English translation support throughout the visit. Her facilitation ensured effective communication between the EGAT team and the WAPDA participants, helping bridge technical and cultural understanding.
The experience allowed participants to explore best practices in sustainable energy production, dam safety protocols, and environmental impact mitigation, all within the context of a functioning hydropower system.
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Day 5: Artificial Intelligence Applications in Construction by Teerapap Trakarnphol
In this forward-looking session, Mr. Teerapap Trakarnphol, a leading figure in digital innovation for infrastructure, introduced participants to the use of AI and machine learning in construction planning, monitoring, and predictive maintenance. Tools such as digital twins, automated scheduling, and real-time data analytics were demonstrated, showing how technology can enhance project accuracy and efficiency.
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Day 6: Infrastructure Management and Holistic Development by Dr. Djoen San Santoso
Dr. Djoen San Santoso presented a systems-thinking approach to infrastructure development. The session emphasized the interconnectedness of physical, social, and institutional infrastructure and introduced integrated planning tools. Topics included urban-rural linkages, resilience to climate impacts, and lifecycle-based asset management.
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Day 7: Digital Transformation in Construction Management
The final day highlighted the digital evolution of the construction industry, from Building Information Modeling (BIM) to smart sensors and cloud-based project dashboards. Participants discussed case studies of digital implementation in Asia and reviewed how digital strategies can reduce construction delays, improve safety, and support transparent procurement processes.
The EDSMAT-3 Professional Development Program was an invaluable opportunity for WAPDA engineers to enhance their technical knowledge and practical skills in dam construction and hydropower development.
With a carefully curated curriculum and the expertise of leading industry professionals, this initiative successfully empowered participants with the essential competencies needed for the advancement of sustainable and resilient construction projects in Pakistan.
Through a comprehensive blend of theoretical learning, practical case studies, site visits, and digital innovation, the program empowered participants with the knowledge, tools, and global perspectives needed to lead complex infrastructure projects with confidence and sustainability.
By fostering collaboration across borders, disciplines, and institutions, EDSMAT-3 not only strengthened the capacity of WAPDA’s workforce but also reinforced the shared commitment of Thailand and Pakistan to building resilient, efficient, and people-centered hydropower systems. As the participants return home, they carry with them not just new skills—but a renewed sense of purpose and the inspiration to drive transformation in Pakistan’s infrastructure landscape.
The Yunus Center at AIT remains committed to advancing professional development, international cooperation, and impactful learning experiences in the region and beyond.