EDSMAT-3 Professional Development Program, organized by the Yunus Center at AIT in collaboration with Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN)
The EDSMAT-3 Professional Development Program, organized by the Yunus Center at AIT in collaboration with Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN), took place from February 18 to 27.
This program engaged 19 senior and executive engineers from the civil, geology, and power departments of the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA), Pakistan, in an extensive learning journey across Malaysia and Thailand.
Program Overview
This specialized two-country training initiative was designed to enhance expertise in hydropower and dam construction, ensuring alignment with WAPDA’s learning objectives. Over the course of the program, participants were exposed to critical aspects of dam engineering and hydropower infrastructure, including:
- Dam Hydrology & Hydraulics
- Site Selection & Water Conveyance Design
- Spillway Construction & Seepage Control
- Geotechnical Aspects of Dam Projects
- Concrete and Embankment Construction
Key Program Highlight: Site Visit to Batu Dam
One of the most significant components of the training was a field visit to the Batu Dam, where participants integrated theoretical knowledge with real-world applications. This experience enabled them to observe and understand the practical aspects of dam construction, from foundational works to structural integrity measures.
Participants received hands-on exposure to various construction methods, including foundation and abutment preparation, grouting techniques, and structural best practices, which were essential for ensuring the development of safe, efficient, and sustainable hydropower infrastructures.
Course Modules and Expert Lecturers
The program consisted of multiple expert-led courses focusing on crucial elements of dam engineering. The following were the main topics covered along with their respective lecturers:
Dam Safety and Hydrology & Hydraulic for Hydropower & Dam Construction, Design of Water Conveyance
This course covered critical principles of dam safety, water hydrology, and hydraulic structures essential for the successful design and operation of hydropower dams. Participants explored flood risk assessment, water flow regulation, and emergency preparedness strategies to enhance dam safety and efficiency.
Lectured by:
- Prof Datin Ir Dr Lariyah Mohd Sidek
- Ir. Dr. Hidayah Basri
- Dam Safety & Sustainability Intelligence (DSSI), Institute of Energy Infrastructure, UNITEN
Dam Site Selection, Seepage Control, Embankment Construction, Geotechnical & Structural Aspects of Dam Construction
This module focused on key geotechnical and structural factors influencing dam construction, including site evaluation, soil mechanics, embankment stability, and seepage control measures. Participants gained insights into advanced geological assessment techniques for dam foundations and embankments.
Lectured by:
- Dr. Mohamed Hafez
Spillway Works & Construction, RCC Spillway Work
Spillways play a crucial role in flood management and water flow control. This course delved into the design, construction, and maintenance of spillways, including reinforced concrete construction techniques for spillway stability and efficiency.
Lectured by:
- Zakaria Che Muda, Ph.D, P.Eng
Dam Construction Methods
This course provided comprehensive training on various construction methodologies used in dam building. Topics included concrete dam construction, roller-compacted concrete (RCC) techniques, and embankment dam engineering.
Lectured by:
- Ts. Muhammad Shaiful Bin Abu Bakar
Design Criteria & Construction Considerations, Foundations, Abutments Preparation & Grouting
Participants learned about foundation treatment, abutment preparation, and grouting techniques to enhance dam stability. The course also covered structural integrity measures, quality control in dam construction, and innovative engineering solutions for foundation strengthening.
Lectured by:
- Prof Dr. Fauziah Ahmad (Universiti Sains Malaysia, Engineering Campus)
