Sri Lanka’s historical underperformance in science and technology is attributed to inadequate leadership, limited funding, and poor strategic planning. In contrast to countries like Malaysia and Vietnam, which invest significantly in research and development (R&D), Sri Lanka allocates just 0.12% of its GDP. Despite previous initiatives such as the National Science Foundation and National Research Council, the contribution of R&D to the country’s economic and social development has remained minimal. Key challenges include insufficient leadership, low private sector engagement, and weak institutional collaboration.
Vision
The framework envisions achieving economic prosperity, social well-being, and environmental sustainability through innovation-driven R&D.
Principles
The policy emphasizes fostering innovation and collaboration among scientists and institutions while encouraging experimentation and new inventions. The government is positioned as a central figure in policy formulation and funding, with active participation from the private sector, public, and international community. Equity, diversity, inclusion, and sustainability are integral to all R&D activities.
Overall Goal
The primary aim is to leverage science and technology through a structured R&D mechanism to propel Sri Lanka toward economic transformation and social development.
Objectives
The framework seeks to incorporate cutting-edge scientific knowledge into national development strategies and to produce value-added products and services for both local and global markets. It focuses on enhancing private sector participation, promoting education and technical training, and fostering collaboration among universities, industries, and the government. Reversing brain drain by retaining educated professionals is another key objective.
Priority Areas for Investment
The policy identifies several critical sectors for R&D investment. Agriculture, fisheries, livestock, and food security will benefit from research on high-yield crops, sustainable practices, and climate-resilient farming. Health and education are targeted for improvements through research on diseases, drug development, traditional medicine, and STEM education initiatives.
Information technology, communication, engineering, energy, and transport will see advancements in artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and smart transportation solutions. Environmental conservation efforts will focus on biodiversity, climate change mitigation, and sustainable resource management. Human development, art, history, and culture are also prioritized, with an emphasis on entrepreneurship, cultural preservation, and the integration of modern technologies.
In the realm of national security and geopolitics, research will address areas critical to public and foreign affairs.
Implementation and Regulation
To oversee the framework, the government will establish a National Research Development and Management Committee (NRDMC) and a National Institute for Research and Development (NIRD). Key stakeholders include the government, research institutes, private sector, and international partners. Funding will come from government budgets, private investments, international grants, and innovative financial mechanisms.
Monitoring and Evaluation
The NRDMC and NIRD will monitor and regulate R&D activities, ensuring they comply with international standards and ethical practices. Regular evaluations and progress reports will provide accountability and transparency.
Appendices
The framework outlines various funding mechanisms, including research grants, program projects, training initiatives, and public research funding. It adopts a rigorous two-stage review process for grant distribution, focusing on scientific merit and administrative feasibility. The importance of interdisciplinary R&D is also emphasized, showcasing its potential to benefit multiple sectors.
Conclusion
Sri Lanka’s Science & Technology Policy Framework represents a transformative approach to leveraging R&D for national development. By fostering innovation, promoting sustainable practices, and addressing key challenges, the framework aims to position Sri Lanka as a knowledge-based economy. Its implementation is expected to drive long-term economic prosperity, social well-being, and environmental sustainability.
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