New Scientific research must directly contribute to improving people's quality of life and strengthening the national economy - President
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake emphasised that new scientific research must directly contribute to improving the quality of life of the people while strengthening the national economy. President media reported.
The President pointed out that research and development (R&D) have been instrumental in creating some of the world's most prosperous economies, noting that R&D transforms the way human needs are met. He stressed that those who recognise and harness its potential will be best placed to succeed in the future.
The President made these remarks during a meeting held yesterday (05) at the Presidential Secretariat to review the progress of projects implemented by the Ministry of Science and Technology in 2026 and to discuss the Ministry's proposals for the 2027 Budget.
During the discussion, the President highlighted the need for an effective mechanism to provide the public with information and data that would help meet their daily needs and improve their incomes. The President also explored how the Ministry of Science and Technology could contribute towards supporting such an initiative.
He also emphasised the importance of establishing a dedicated unit under the Ministry of Science and Technology to coordinate the allocation of funding for research activities carried out by research institutions operating under various ministries.
The meeting reviewed the financial progress of projects implemented by the 14 institutions under the Ministry of Science and Technology with both domestic and foreign assistance. Particular attention was given to projects undertaken by the National Engineering Research and Development Centre (NERDC), including research on elephant fence construction and the development of low-cost, environmentally friendly building technologies.
Discussions also focused on the challenges associated with the commercialisation of scientific innovations developed by institutions under the Ministry. The President further stressed the need to coordinate research activities conducted across different ministries, including the Ministry of Agriculture.
Further discussions were held on the research project on cinnamon-based products being implemented in collaboration with the University of Ruhuna. Attention was also given to the challenges and obstacles encountered in research projects related to Ayurvedic products.
Projects implemented by the National Science Foundation were also discussed, including procurement-related challenges encountered in conducting collaborative research with universities.
It was noted that the National Science Commission has formulated a policy for the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, while work is currently underway to develop a national policy on intellectual property.
The meeting also revealed that a scientific roadmap for disaster preparedness is scheduled to be launched in October, while a technology exchange programme among BIMSTEC member states is currently being planned.
Discussions were also held on a project by the Arthur C. Clarke Institute to install AI-powered thermal imaging camera systems to prevent collisions between trains and wild elephants.
The meeting also discussed research initiatives in emerging fields such as Astro-Tourism, as well as research related to natural disaster management. In addition, ongoing research and development projects in the agricultural sector, including those focusing on cashew, paddy and tea cultivation, were reviewed.
Minister of Science and Technology Krishantha Abeysena, Secretary to the President Dr Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Chief of Staff to the President Prabath Chandrakeerthi, Secretary to the Ministry of Energy and Senior Additional Secretary to the President Russell Aponsu, Acting Secretary to the Ministry of Science and Technology Mahesh Gammanpila, together with officials from the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, the Ministry of Science and Technology were present at the meeting.
