President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has emphasised the need for scientific research and development (R&D) to directly contribute towards improving the lives of citizens and strengthening the national economy.
The President said research and development have been a key factor behind the success of many developed economies by creating new solutions to meet human needs. He noted that countries capable of recognising and effectively utilising the potential of R&D would be better positioned to face future challenges, the President’s Media Division said in a statement.
President Dissanayake made these remarks during a meeting held at the Presidential Secretariat to review the progress of projects implemented by the Ministry of Science and Technology in 2026 and discuss proposals for the 2027 Budget.
During the meeting, the President highlighted the importance of creating an effective system to provide the public with scientific information and data that could help improve daily lives and increase income opportunities.
He also stressed the need to establish a dedicated mechanism within the Ministry of Science and Technology to coordinate research funding provided to institutions operating under different ministries.
The meeting reviewed the progress of projects implemented by 14 institutions under the Ministry of Science and Technology with both local and foreign assistance.
Special attention was given to research conducted by the National Engineering Research and Development Centre (NERDC), including studies on elephant fences and the development of low-cost, environmentally friendly construction technologies.
Discussions also focused on challenges faced in commercialising scientific innovations developed by research institutions and the need to strengthen mechanisms that support the transition of research outcomes into practical applications, the PMD noted.
The President called for greater coordination among research activities conducted by different ministries, including agriculture-related research projects.
The meeting also reviewed a cinnamon-based product research project carried out with the University of Ruhuna and examined challenges affecting research on Ayurvedic products.
Officials also discussed projects implemented by the National Science Foundation, including procurement issues affecting joint research activities with universities.
The meeting was informed that a national policy on intellectual property is currently being developed, while a scientific roadmap for disaster preparedness is scheduled to be launched in October.
Plans for a technology exchange programme among BIMSTEC member states were also discussed, along with an initiative by the Arthur C. Clarke Institute to introduce AI-based thermal imaging camera systems to prevent train accidents involving wild elephants, the PMD stated.
Research projects in emerging fields, including astro-tourism, disaster management, and agricultural sectors such as cashew, paddy, and tea cultivation, were also reviewed, the PMD added.
The meeting was attended by Minister of Science and Technology Krishantha Abeysena, senior government officials, and representatives of relevant ministries and scientific institutions.
