The Event On 11th November 2025, a series of important events, was conducted at Sethsiripaya Stage I, Battaramulla, to the partnership between the Ministry of Science and Technology and the University of Vavuniya for the establishment of the Incubation Centre for Sustainable Food Innovation. The day included a discussion session with Hon. Minister Professor Chrishantha Abeysena and a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing ceremony. Both activities marked a significant milestone in promoting research, innovation, and entrepreneurship in food technology.
The discussion session focused on the establishment and future development of the Incubation Centre. Hon. Minister Professor Chrishantha Abeysena was briefed on the objectives, current progress, and future plans of the Centre. The Minister highly appreciated the University’s efforts in fostering research, innovation, and entrepreneurship in food technology and assured the Ministry continued support for successful implementation. Delegates from the Ministry officials, UBL Director, SME Sector Coordinator, Vidhata Commissioner, and other stakeholders were present.
At 11:30 a.m., a formal MOU signing ceremony was held to formalize collaboration for the development and operation of the Incubation Centre. The ceremony underscored the shared commitment of both institutions to foster innovation, strengthen research capacity, and promote sustainable food production and technology transfer in Sri Lanka. Key participants included Prof. A. Atputharajah (Vice Chancellor, University of Vavuniya), Mrs. S. Mathivathany (Director, UBL), Mr. R. Jeyakumar (Registrar), Mr. P. Sasitharan (Career Guidance Counsellor), Mr. Thavendaran (District Officer), Ms. S. Kobika (Trainee Management Assistant), Mr. Y.L.M. Navavi (Secretary, Ministry of Science and Technology), and other Ministry officials.
The main objective of the project is to establish the Incubation Centre for Sustainable Innovation in the Northern Province. The project scope includes procuring 19 initial testing instruments, designing and setting up workbenches and laboratory furniture, and providing testing and certification services in biological, chemical, and nutritional analysis. A survey of local entrepreneurs identified 36 food items for testing and certification, with priority given to products requiring advanced preparation and standardization.
To ensure timely completion, procurement has been divided among three suppliers, with a target to finish before December 2025 as requested by the Ministry and NQI. Procurement work for laboratory equipment, chemicals, and glassware is ongoing. Additional funding from universities and donors is being explored. Parallel work is being carried out to finalize workbenches, furniture, and laboratory infrastructure, ensuring the Centre will be fully operational once complete.
The project team is coordinating closely with the Sri Lanka Standards Institute (SLSI) to define testing methodologies and specifications. Discussions with the Sri Lanka Accreditation Board (SLAB) and ITI labs are ongoing to ensure proper accreditation. Staff training is planned prior to accreditation, including training at Palmera Research Institute and ITI. Recruitment of qualified personnel has been emphasized to meet all accreditation requirements. An MOU with SLSI is proposed to ensure the Centre can issue valid certificates in compliance with licensing regulations.
The team agreed to complete the remaining equipment procurement, finalize laboratory setup and furniture, train staff for accreditation and testing, maintain close coordination with ITI, SLSI, and SLAB, incorporate financial arrangements in the MOU appendix, and explore additional funding sources. These actions aim to make the Centre fully operational, accredited, and capable of delivering high-quality testing and certification services to SMEs
The meeting concluded with appreciation for the contributions of all stakeholders. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to empowering SMEs through testing, certification, and training. Emphasis was placed on continued collaboration, proper utilization of the incubation Centre, and adherence to quality and accreditation standards to ensure meaningful regional development.
