Prof. R. M. G. Rajapakshe, Senior Professor at the University of Peradeniya, has discussed ways and means of adopting new technologies to add value to local products, as part of the overall efforts to enhance export earnings. Prof. Rajapakshe addressed this issue against the backdrop of an unprecedented economic crisis, experienced by the country.

The academic said so participating in Hybrid Webinar on “Complexity of Science and Technology in Economic Development.”

The Organization of Professional Associations of Sri Lanka (OPA Sri Lanka), the umbrella organization for all professional organizations in the country, in collaboration with the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon (IChemC), hosted the webinar on Aug 19.

Prof. Rajapakshe discussed a few breakthroughs, pioneered by his team, at the University of Peradeniya, during the COVID-19 pandemic, as examples of technologies that could be used for value addition, to local products. The Respirone Nano AV 99 face mask, anti-microbial apparel, and the use of 3D printing for the treatment of skeletal system-related disorders and injuries were a few innovations, among many, that were developed, despite all hurdles brought forth by the pandemic.

Furthermore, as an inventive researcher, addressing to bring about solutions to real-life concerns faced by mankind, Prof. Rajapakshe underlined the hurdles and challenges that most Sri Lankan innovators experience when it comes to getting a product from benchtop to the commercial market.

The hybrid webinar was attended by President of the OPA Sri Lanka, Dulitha Perera, President of IChem, C N. M. S. Hettigedara, General Secretary of the OPA Eng. Upali Jayawardena, and many other distinguished guests.

Senior Lecturer at IChemC, Dr. A. A. Keerthi, moderated the session. The event concluded following the fellowship of the members.