The first Technology Service and Support Center (Technology Incubation Centre), a milestone project under the Ministry of Science and Technology, was officially opened on 23rd January 2026 at the Park Road premises of the University of Vavuniya.

The ceremony was presided over by Prof. Krishantha Abeyasena, Minister of Science and Technology, and Mr.Sunil Handunnetti, Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development.

Key Objectives and Scope

This center aims to serve the Northern Province by focusing on:

• Entrepreneurship and Invention: Cultivating a culture of creativity.

• Commercialization: Bridging the gap between research, innovation, and the market.

• Startup Development: Providing the necessary support for new businesses to thrive.

The center was established through a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Vidatha Programme, and the University of Vavuniya.

Expanding the "Vidatha" Vision

The establishment of these Incubation Centres is an advanced step of the Vidatha Programme, whose core mission is to "take technology to the village." By bringing science, technology, and innovation to rural areas, the program supports Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and transfers appropriate technology to the grassroots level to promote entrepreneurship across Sri Lanka.

Future Expansion:

• A total of 24 Technology Incubation Centres are planned to be established island-wide.

• The initial phase focuses on state university premises, followed by district-level expansions.

• This initiative involves collaboration across several ministries, including Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Agriculture, Fisheries, and Aquatic Resources, alongside various research institutes.

Impact on Quality and Markets

This initiative is viewed as a milestone in strengthening the SME sector. By enhancing the quality and standards of local products and services, the program aims to help Sri Lankan entrepreneurs successfully compete in both domestic and international markets.

Highlights of the Event

• Quality Certification: Test reports were officially handed over to entrepreneurs from the Vavuniya, Mullaitivu, and Mannar districts for products submitted to the center.

• Exhibition: A Science, Technology, and Innovation exhibition was held on-site, featuring leading research institutes, universities, and private companies.

• Youth Empowerment: Simultaneously, 172 Young Inventors' Clubs and Science Societies were established for schools in the Vavuniya, Mullaitivu, and Mannar districts during a session at the Vavuniya District Secretariat.

Distinguished Guests

The event was attended by Members of Parliament Mylvaganam Jegadeeswaran and Sellathambi Thilaganathan, Additional Secretary to the Ministry of Science and Technology Mahesh Gammanpila, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Vavuniya A. Atputharajah, as well as government officials, university students, and local entrepreneurs.

The "Harvest Centre"—a Service and Support Centre established by the Ministry of Science and Technology in collaboration with the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna—was officially inaugurated today (12th). The ceremony was presided over by the Minister of Science and Technology, Professor Krishantha Abeyasena, at the Faculty of Agriculture premises.

The primary objective of this center is to foster and develop entrepreneurship, innovation, research commercialization, and startup growth specifically within the Southern Province.

Promoting Grassroots Technology: The Vidatha Program

As a flagship national initiative, the Ministry of Science and Technology operates the Vidatha Program to transfer technology to rural communities. This program aims to:

• Support the growth of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

• Create value-added products from local natural resources using scientific and innovative knowledge.

• Establish a mechanism to promote entrepreneurship across Sri Lanka.

While Vidatha Centers currently operate at the Divisional Secretariat level, the establishment of Service and Support Centres within State Universities marks a significant expansion. Through this, the Ministry aims to strengthen innovation and empower entrepreneurs and startups.

Empowering the Southern Economy

The "Harvest Centre" at the University of Ruhuna is the second such center established by the Ministry. It is expected to inject new energy into the local economy by:

• Assisting SMEs in Matara, Galle, and Hambantota districts to add value to their products based on scientific foundations.

• Helping businesses meet national and international standards.

• Providing the necessary edge to conquer both local and foreign markets.

Services Offered to Entrepreneurs

To drive development in the Southern region's agribusiness and food technology sectors, the center will provide:

• Testing & Research: Access to university laboratories for quality testing and scientific reports.

• Packaging: Guidance on modern packaging facilities suited for international markets.

• Technical & Management Knowledge: Training required to run a successful business.

• Consultancy: Expert guidance from university academics on commercializing new products, market entry, and technology transfer.

Distinguished Guests

The event was attended by a large gathering, including:

• Arkham Ilyas, Deputy Minister of Energy.

• Professor L.M. Abeywickrama and Ajantha Gammeddege, Members of Parliament for the Matara District.

• Mohammed Nawwi, Secretary to the Ministry of Science and Technology.

• Professor P.A. Jayantha, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ruhuna.

• Professor G.Y. Jayasinghe, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture.

• Government officials, academics, and industry stakeholders.

Testing and Analytical facilities available under the Ministry of Science and Technology

Aiming to facilitate Research, industry, and Innovation, the Ministry of Science and Technology is pleased to present the consolidated list of testing, analytical, calibration and characterization facilities available at institutions operating under its purview. These facilities are accessible to researchers, academia, industry, entrepreneurs, regulatory bodies and other stakeholders subject to institutional guidelines.
The listed facilities cover wide range of scientific and technological disciplines including;

• Material Characterization and Testing
• Chemical, Microbiological and Biological Analysis
• Environmental Testing and Monitoring
• Food, Agriculture & Nutritional Analysis
• Mechanical, Electrical and Engineering Testing
• Calibration & Quality Assurance Service
• Advanced Instrumentation & Specialized Laboratories.

The Ministry encourages all stakeholders to make optimal use of these facilities to foster innovation, competitiveness and development of the country.

Please find linked PDF here: Testing and Analytical Facilities