A special symposium themed “Research and Applications of Traditional Knowledge based Biotechnologies in Sri Lanka: Past perspectives, current status and Future Trends” organized by Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science (SLAAS) was held on 30th May 2019 at the auditorium of the Institute of Industrial Technology in Colombo. This symposium is the first of the Biotechnology symposia series to be conducted by SLAAS aligning with the theme for the year “Biotechnology for Sustainable Future”.
SLAAS; as the premier body of scientists in Sri Lanka has served the country for more than 75 years in promoting Science through various activities. The SLAAS is focusing on the theme “Biotechnology for a Sustainable Future” for the year 2019. Going with theme the SLAAS has organized a series of mini symposia to discuss 7 different areas where biotechnology is being used. This series of symposia has been organized under the supervision of the general president of the SLAAS Prof. Preethi Udagama and the symposium held on this 30th was the first one of this series.
Inaugurating the symposium current general president of the SLAAS, Prof. Preethi Udagama described the importance of SLAAS in the advancement of science in Sri Lanka. Further speaking Prof. Udagama talked about the responsibility of scientists to support the economic development of the country through their research.
Mr. Chinthaka S. Lokuhetti, secretary, Ministry of Science Technology and Research was the chief guest of the event
Chief guest o the event Mr. Chinthaka S. Lokuhetti, secretary, Ministry of Science Technology and Research also addressed the gathering and in his speech he emphasized Biotechnology as the key in supporting sustainable socioeconomic development and driving the evolution of bio-based economy. And also he mentioned the establishment of Sri Lanka Biotechnology Innovation Park, and the Sri Lanka Institute of Biotechnology as key initiatives by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Research to enhance the research, development innovation in Biotechnology sector in Sri Lanka.
Dr. Sirimal Premakumara delivered the keynote speech of the symposium
Delivering the keynote address of the event Dr. Sirimal Premakumara from the Faculty of Nursing, University of Colombo talked about Research and Applications of traditional knowledge based bio-technologies in Sri Lanka describing past perspectives, current status and future trends of them. In his speech Dr. Sirimal talked about many technologies used in traditional medical systems including “Ayurveda”. He described this traditional knowledge we have in this country as incomparable and an unimaginable wealth of knowledge created by our forefathers. He concluded his address emphasizing the fact that the future biotechnology research in Sri Lanka should focus to capitalize the knowledge we already have and use advanced biotechnology tools to harness bioactive molecules for global bio-pharmaceutical, cosmoceutical, health/food/neutraceutical, natural colors and aroma/fragrance industries.
During the scientific sessions Prof. Raj Somadeva presented a historical review on Biology Related activities of the ancient Sri Lanka, with archaeological proofs gathered from sites around the country.
Dr. Danister Perera speaking during the symposium
Dr. Danister Perera, an Ayurveda Physician in his presentation talked about the various plant species used in Ayurveda, He mentioned the traditional knowledge repository of the medical properties and actions of the natural compounds found in these plants as a treasure trove that should be harnessed with universal principals of access and benefit sharing as well as IPR laws.
Prof. P.I. Yapa, from University of Sabaragamuwa talked about the traditional knowledge and organic agriculture in his speech.
Prof. P.I. Yapa, from University of Sabaragamuwa talked about the traditional knowledge and organic agriculture in his speech. He discussed the importance of modernizing the organic farming by enriching the technology with incorporating the traditional knowledge which will be the key to provide Sri Lanka with safe high quality food in future.
Prof. Ilmi Hewajulige from the Industrial Technology Institute delivering her address on probiotic and prebiotic use in Sri Lankan food industry
Applications of probiotics and Prebiotics in Sri Lankan food industry were discussed by Prof. Ilmi Hewajulige from the Industrial Technology Institute. She described fermenting as one of the main traditional knowledge system that used biotechnology effectively in food industry in Sri Lanka.
Intellectual Property rights for the traditional knowledge based products also very important when commercializing them, Dr. Sampath Punchihewa during his presentation.
The legal background of the Intellectual Property rights for the traditional knowledge based products was discussed in the presentation made by Dr. Sampath Puchihewa of the Faculty of Law, University of Colombo.
Prof. Subhangi herath delivering her speech on sociological aspects of traditional knowledge based biotechnology
Concluding the scientific sessions the presentation on sociological aspects of the traditional knowledge based biotechnology was delivered by Prof. Subhangi herath.
Members of the SLAAS, university lecturers, University students and many others participated the conference. The SLAAS will announce the date for the next mini symposium will soon be announced.
