The Institution of Engineers Sri Lanka New Zealand Chapter (IESL NZ) will host an Open Day Tour and Design Challenge for school students at the University of Auckland’s Faculty of Engineering and Design on Saturday, 29 August 2026. This free event, which requires prior registration, is part of IESL NZ’s commitment to inspiring the next generation of engineers.

The event will begin with a guided tour of the Engineering Open Day exhibits, where students will explore a range of engineering disciplines, including electrical and electronic, computer systems, software, chemical and materials, civil and environmental, mechanical, biomedical, mechatronics, and engineering science. Students will explore the displays in small groups led by IESL NZ members, with opportunities to ask questions throughout the tour.

Students will then take part in a hands-on team design challenge, facilitated by Little Engineers. They will work with the team assigned to them, replicating a professional engineering setting where collaboration, communication, creativity, and problem-solving are essential. The challenge will be judged by an independent faculty member from the University of Auckland.

“We want students to experience engineering in a fun and practical way,” said Rasika Jayasinghe, President of IESL NZ.

The programme will also include a guest talk by a faculty member aimed at inspiring students to pursue engineering as a career. Last year’s speaker was Professor Partha Roop who is the head of Electrical, Computer, and Software engineering at the University of Auckland. There will be multiple opportunities for both students and parents to ask questions and network with the IESL NZ community. Lunch will be provided, and there will be prizes for the winning teams, along with certificates of participation for all students.

Parents are welcome and encouraged to attend, as career choices are often shaped through family conversations and shared experiences. We kindly ask parents to step outside during the design challenge so students can work independently in their teams.

This event is recommended for school-aged students aged 12 and above. IESL NZ has successfully run this programme for the past two years. The event is made possible through IESL NZ’s strong connection with the University of Auckland, supported by a committee that includes a mix of University of Auckland academics, alumni, and current students.

“As an academic at UoA working heavily on outreach, we find many young people rule out engineering as a career choice because they often have no idea what it involves, have not had the right exposure or have been heavily misinformed,” said Dr. Dulsha Kularatna-Abeywardana, chair of the IESL NZ Open Day event.

Due to popular demand and capacity limits, places are limited to 50 students. If registrations exceed the available spaces, selections may be made based on age, demonstrated interest in engineering or science, and other relevant factors to ensure the priority may be given to students who demonstrate a strong interest in engineering and science.

Register by 20 August 2026 to be considered for a place. The event offers students a unique opportunity to experience university life, explore engineering pathways and connect with industry professionals.

Dr Dulsha Kularatna-Abeywardana
Senior Lecturer The University of Auckland, New Zealand