Students from the Specialization in Water Resources Engineering at the University of Cauca conducted a technical visit to the Las Ceibas River in Huila, focusing on topics related to the natural threat of debris flows and torrential floods in this river, located in the municipality of Neiva.

From May 30th to June 1st, a group of 25 students, coordinated by professors Carlos Gallardo, Felipe Agredo, and Andrea Bolaños, carried out a comprehensive technical visit to the Huila department. During this experience, students had the opportunity to explore various hydraulic works and receive guidance from construction professionals and related entities.

This visit helped to strengthen ties between academia, regional entities, and multinational companies responsible for developing engineering solutions. Additionally, it enabled the students to gain insight into the professional field related to basic and detailed risk studies. This experience also directed a proposal for an elective course (currently under evaluation by the Faculty of Civil Engineering) led by professor Felipe Agredo from the Hydraulics Department, which will focus on acquiring the skills to develop maps and models for geological hazards, such as mass removal and floods, incorporating variability and climate change in uncontrolled and poorly documented basins.

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It is important to mention that, to prevent emergencies and reduce disaster risk in the rural and urban areas of Neiva, the Regional Autonomous Corporation of Alto Magdalena (CAM) constructed and put into operation three containment nets against debris flow in the middle and upper parts of the Las Ceibas River basin. These large nets, made of high-strength steel, dissipate the energy of the flow and stop debris carried by natural phenomena like torrential floods.

“The purpose of the construction and installation of the nets in the Las Ceibas River is to retain debris transported during torrential floods and sudden river rises. Debris in these sudden rises makes up approximately 60% of the flood flow, and these dynamic barriers act as structural support and complement the river channeling works in the urban area,” explained Javier Cardoso Gutiérrez, coordinator of the Ceibas Project at CAM.

Thus, this academic experience not only helped strengthen the relationship between academia and the business sector but also allowed the students to learn first-hand about various ways to prevent environmental risks. This is undoubtedly a highly relevant lesson in today’s context, given climate change and the challenges it presents.

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Therefore, at this university of excellence and solidarity, we emphasize the importance of carrying out such academic activities. Leaving the classroom and experiencing these practical activities significantly facilitates learning.