The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) held its Second Expert Meeting on Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Cooperation from July 25th to 26th, 2024, at the Hilton Residence in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The event was a significant milestone for regional collaboration in STI, bringing together delegates from member countries to discuss and ratify the Science, Technology, and Innovation Cooperation Plan of Action for 2023-2027.
Key Highlights of the Meeting:
- Ratification of the STI Plan of Action (2023-2027): The meeting saw the extension and ratification of the Science, Technology, and Innovation Cooperation Plan of Action for the years 2023-2027. This plan aims to foster greater cooperation and accelerated development in the STI sector among BIMSTEC member countries.
- Accelerating TTF Establishment: A key focus of the meeting was to accelerate the establishment of the Technology Transfer Facility (TTF). This facility is envisioned as a crucial platform for sharing knowledge, technologies, and innovations across member states.
- Bootcamp Activities on Smart Agriculture: The meeting also emphasized the importance of smart agriculture practices in the era of climate change. Special boot camp activities were planned to promote these practices, with a significant focus on empowering women in the STI sector.
- Public-Private Partnerships: The delegates discussed strategies to enhance public-private partnerships in regional STI activities. The goal is to foster innovation, pool patenting efforts, and facilitate the commercialization of scientific advancements.
Foreign Delegation: The foreign delegation included prominent figures from BIMSTEC member countries:
- Mr. Kiran Shakya, Director, BIMSTEC Secretariat
- Ms. Ayesha Binte Rabbani, BIMSTEC Secretariat
- Bangladesh: Md. Reyad Hossain
- Bhutan: Mr. Tshering Namgyay Wangchuk
- India: Dr. Arindam Bhattacharyya and Dr. Charu Agarwal
- Myanmar: Dr. Phyu Phyu Win
- Nepal: Mr. Santosh Sharma
- Thailand: Dr. Chalita Srinuan
Sri Lankan Delegation: The host nation was represented by:
- Mr. K.R. Uduwawala, Additional Secretary (Development and Innovation), Ministry of Education
- Prof. Veranja Karunaratne, Chairman, NASTEC
- Prof. Ajith De Alwis
- Mrs. M.M.G.K. Meegahakotuwa
- Ms. Geethani Kannangara
- Dr. Seyed Shahmy
- Mr. Sachindra Samararatne
- Ms. Prarthana Kaushalya
Each country representative presented the STI landscape in their respective countries and the ongoing activities aligned with BIMSTEC’s objectives.
Day Two: Visits and Interactive Sessions:
On the second day, the delegation visited several key innovation hubs in Colombo:
- Trace Expert City: The delegates engaged in interactive sessions with Heminda Jayaweera and Sankalpa Gamwarige, exploring the innovative work being done at the hub.
- Vega Innovations by CODEGEN: Guided by Kusal Subasinghe, the delegates toured the facilities and learned about the groundbreaking projects in electric vehicle technology and renewable energy.
- Twinery Innovations by MAS: The delegation also visited Twinery Innovations by MAS, gaining insights into the company’s advancements in textile technology and sustainable practices.
The Second Expert Meeting on Science, Technology, and Innovation Cooperation under BIMSTEC has paved the way for enhanced regional collaboration and innovation. By fostering strong public-private partnerships and focusing on empowering women in the STI sector, BIMSTEC is poised to drive significant advancements in technology and economic development across the region. The meeting’s outcomes highlight the collective commitment of member states to leverage STI for sustainable growth and prosperity.
