The MOU Signing Ministry of Science and Technology programme took place successfully on 11th November 2025 at Sethsiripaya Stage I, Battaramulla. The event strengthened collaboration between the Ministry of Science and Technology and the University of Vavuniya.
This partnership supports the establishment of the Incubation Centre for Sustainable Food Innovation. The organizers conducted a discussion session followed by a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing ceremony.
The initiative marked an important milestone in promoting research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable food technology development in Sri Lanka.
The discussion session focused on development plans for the Incubation Centre for Sustainable Food Innovation.
Hon. Minister Professor Chrishantha Abeysena attended the session and discussed future collaboration opportunities with the University team. The University of Vavuniya team presented the objectives, current progress, and future plans of the Centre.
The Minister appreciated the University’s efforts to strengthen innovation and research in the Northern Province. He also confirmed continued support from the Ministry for the project.
In addition, ministry officials, the UBL Director, SME Sector Coordinator, and other stakeholders participated in the discussion.
The formal ceremony began at 11:30 a.m. The agreement officially established collaboration for developing and operating the Incubation Centre.
The ceremony reflected a shared commitment to innovation, research capacity building, entrepreneurship, and sustainable food technology development in Sri Lanka.
Key participants included Prof. A. Atputharajah, Vice Chancellor of the University of Vavuniya; Mrs. S. Mathivathany, Director of UBL; Mr. R. Jeyakumar, Registrar; and Mr. P. Sasitharan, Career Guidance Counsellor.
Ministry representatives, including Secretary Mr. Y.L.M. Navavi and several senior officials, attended the event.
The main objective of the project is to establish an Incubation Centre for Sustainable Innovation in the Northern Province.
The project includes procurement of 19 testing instruments and setup of laboratory workbenches and furniture.
In addition, the Centre will provide testing and certification services in biological, chemical, and nutritional analysis.
The project team conducted a survey and identified 36 food products from local entrepreneurs for testing and certification. Priority is given to products requiring advanced standardization.
Procurement activities are divided among three suppliers to ensure timely completion. The target is to complete the process before December 2025.
At the same time, procurement of laboratory equipment, chemicals, and glassware is ongoing.
Additional funding is being explored from universities and development partners.
Meanwhile, laboratory infrastructure, furniture, and workbench design are progressing in parallel.
The project team is working closely with the Sri Lanka Standards Institute (SLSI). They are defining testing methods and technical specifications.
Discussions with the Sri Lanka Accreditation Board (SLAB) and ITI laboratories are also ongoing.
Staff training will be conducted before accreditation. Training will include sessions at Palmera Research Institute and ITI.
Recruitment of qualified personnel is prioritized to meet accreditation requirements.
An MOU with SLSI is also planned to ensure valid certification under regulatory standards.
The team agreed to complete remaining procurement activities and finalize laboratory setup.
In addition, staff training and accreditation preparation will be prioritized.
Coordination with ITI, SLSI, and SLAB will continue throughout implementation.
Financial arrangements will also be included in the MOU appendix.
Furthermore, additional funding sources will be explored to support sustainability.
The meeting concluded with appreciation for all stakeholders.
Participants reaffirmed their commitment to supporting SMEs through testing, certification, and training.
Overall, the initiative strengthens regional development through innovation, quality assurance, and capacity building.
