SL's First Stats Networking Camp Oct 17-19

Introduction to STAT ReTreat 2025

Sri Lanka is set to host its first-ever residential networking camp for undergraduate students in Statistics, titled STAT ReTreat 2025. Organized by the Institute of Applied Statistics, Sri Lanka (IASSL), the event will take place at the National Institute of Co-operative Development (NICD) in Polgolla from October 17 to 19. This initiative aims to bring together aspiring statisticians from both public and private institutions, offering them a unique platform to connect, learn, and envision collaborative futures in the field of statistics and data science.

About IASSL: A Professional Body for Statisticians

The IASSL was formally established by an Act of Parliament (Act No. 38 of 2011) as the premier professional body for statisticians in Sri Lanka. It evolved from the Applied Statistics Association of Sri Lanka (ASASL), which was founded in 1999. The Institute's mandate includes promoting statistical education, research, training, and consultancy, organizing seminars, publishing journals such as the Sri Lankan Journal of Applied Statistics, and collaborating with national and international bodies.

In addition to university-level engagement, IASSL has been running the National Statistics Olympiad for over a decade. This competition is aimed at stimulating interest and literacy in statistics among school and first-year university students, serving as one of IASSL’s key outreach efforts to raise awareness of statistics across the country.

Vision and Goals of STAT ReTreat 2025

Dr. Rajitha M. Silva, President of IASSL, emphasized that this camp is more than just a meeting of students—it represents an investment in the collective future of statistics in Sri Lanka. When young minds from diverse universities come together, share ideas, and spark collaborations, the entire profession is strengthened. "I believe many seeds sown here will grow into long-term research, innovation and partnerships," he said.

The event will feature keynote addresses and invited lectures delivered by experienced statisticians, data scientists, and industry leaders. A series of hands-on workshops will cover topics such as statistical computing, modeling techniques, data visualization, and emerging analytical tools. Students will also have the opportunity to present their own work through mini-presentations, sharing early-stage research or projects with peers. Team-based challenges and problem-solving exercises will encourage collaboration across institutions, while social and networking sessions are designed to help participants form lasting relationships.

Creating a Platform for Learning and Networking

Chanaka Hapuarachchi, Chairperson of IASSL's Statistics Popularization Committee, highlighted the goal of making STAT ReTreat a space not only for learning but also for connecting. "Students not only absorb new skills but build friendships and partnerships that endure beyond these three days," she said.

By creating a shared space for undergraduate statisticians to connect, learn, and dream together, IASSL is taking a bold step toward a more integrated and collaborative future for the discipline. The event promises to be a transformative experience for participants, fostering innovation and strengthening the statistical community in Sri Lanka.

Key Features of the Event

• Keynote Addresses: Delivered by veteran statisticians, data scientists, and industry leaders.
• Workshops: Covering statistical computing, modeling techniques, data visualization, and emerging analytical tools.
• Mini-Presentations: Opportunities for students to showcase their early-stage research or projects.
• Team-Based Challenges: Encouraging collaboration across institutions.
• Networking Sessions: Designed to help participants form lasting relationships.