Expert committee to review and reform Nanotechnology and Biotechnology Institutes

Friday, 9 May 2025 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Cabinet of Ministers on Wednesday approved to appoint an expert committee to review the operations of the Sri Lanka Institute of Nanotechnology Ltd. (SLINTEC), and the Sri Lanka Institute of Biotechnology Ltd. (SLIBREC).

“The expert committee is tasked to compile a report after reviewing the legal frameworks and strategic plans of the two institutes and propose necessary recommendation to ensure the two institutions can contribute directly to rapid economic advancement,” Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said at the weekly post-Cabinet meeting media briefing yesterday.

SLINTEC was established to focus on research and the transfer of nanotechnology-based innovations, while the SLIBREC is tasked with promoting biotechnology-related exports and the development of import substitution products through research.

He said the Government views science, technology and innovation as essential drivers of long-term economic resilience and aims to realign the roles of SLINTEC and SLIBREC.

Given the current domestic and international economic and political conditions, he said the Government has recognised the need to restructure both institutions. “The objective is to position them to engage in a more effective role in driving innovation-led growth, especially in areas aligned with the country’s development priorities,” he added.

The proposal to this effect submitted by Science and Technology Minister Prof. Chrishantha Abeysena was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.