By: Staff Writer
June 08, Colombo (LNW): In 2025, Sri Lanka’s research and development (R&D) landscape is increasingly focused on addressing economic challenges, advancing sustainable development, and driving innovation-led growth. While the nation’s economy is on the path to recovery, persistent global uncertainties and internal vulnerabilities underscore the need for stronger resilience and targeted investment.
A central figure in this transformation is the National Science Foundation (NSF), which has introduced a range of initiatives and grant schemes to stimulate research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. These include technology development grants, start-up funding, and research scholarships. The NSF’s efforts aim to enhance investor confidence and encourage private sector participation, thereby accelerating economic progress.
Key R&D priorities include: Technology development and innovation, promoted through targeted grants supporting entrepreneurs and research-led start-ups.
Sustainable development and environmental protection,is crucial for balancing economic growth with ecological responsibility.Agricultural innovation, seen as a key driver of food security and rural development and education and skills development, vital for creating a knowledgeable, future-ready workforce.
To support these priorities, the National Initiative for the Commercialisation of Research and Development (NIRDC) has launched a significant new effort to improve the evaluation of R&D proposals. Under a Cabinet-approved framework, NIRDC has begun forming technical review committees to assess the viability of submitted projects. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, proposals valued at over Rs. 2 billion were received.
In a marked departure from previous inefficient systems, the NIRDC is implementing an evaluation process based on global best practices, emphasizing transparency, impartiality, and accountability. This new model aligns with systems used in technologically advanced countries and is designed to restore trust in the country’s R&D assessment mechanisms.
To prepare reviewers, several training sessions were conducted between 2–4 June, under the leadership of NIRDC Founder and Senior Presidential Adviser on Science and Technology, Prof. Gomika Udugamasuriya. These sessions educated both local and international experts on the technological review process and the legal frameworks involved.
The NIRDC’s Director General, Dr. Muditha D. Senarath Yapa, and the NIRDC team provided full support to ensure the success of these sessions, reinforcing the government’s commitment to revamping Sri Lanka’s innovation infrastructure.
Overall, Sri Lanka’s 2025 R&D agenda marks a turning point, with stronger institutional frameworks and increased funding aimed at transforming research into tangible economic and social benefits.
