Technology Incubation Centre Launched at University of Vavuniya

Sri Lanka’s first Technology Incubation Centre under a national program led by the Ministry of Science and Technology was officially opened last week at the University of Vavuniya.

Science and Technology Minister Prof. Chrishantha Abeysena and Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Minister Sunil Handunneththi officiated at the opening ceremony.

The centre aims to promote entrepreneurship, innovation, research commercialisation, and startup development in the Northern Province. It has been jointly established by the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Vidatha Program, in collaboration with the University of Vavuniya.

The Vidatha Program focuses on transferring technology and innovative knowledge to rural communities, supporting small and medium-scale enterprises. As part of its expansion, Technology Incubation Centres are being established at state universities nationwide, with 24 centres planned across the island.

The initiative is expected to strengthen innovation-driven enterprises, improve product and service quality, and enhance access to both local and international markets.

Coinciding with the opening, a science, technology, and innovation exhibition was held at the premises, featuring leading research institutions, universities, and companies, and was open to the public free of charge.

Additionally, 172 Young Inventors Clubs and school science societies were established across Vavuniya, Mullaitivu, and Mannar districts to foster creativity and STEM engagement among students.

The event was attended by Members of Parliament, senior government officials, university representatives, entrepreneurs, students, and members of the public.