An institute to widen the capacity of the food industry and acting as a regulatory and policy making institute was launched recently titled the Institute of Food Science and Technology Sri Lanka (IFTSL).
The Sri Lanka Food Processors Association initiated the inauguration of the institute held recently at the Taj Samudra in Colombo.
The institute will comprise of five board of Governors namely Dr. Upali Samarajiva, Dr. D.P.T. Wijeratne, Prof. K.K.D.S. Ranaweera, Mario De Alwis and Hamilton Dias.
Chief Guest on the occasion, well-known marketer Rohantha Atukorala said that with the government’s targeted growth agenda this new institute “falls in beautifully in driving technology readiness in this sector.”
He said that while these institutes were a requisite at this currently juncture it is imperative to understand that in carrying out reforms appropriate leadership is necessary.
The food processing sector directly employs over 300, 000 people while supporting over 4 million back stream producers, SLFPA President Rohantha De Fonseka said.
The institute will also engage in providing independent advice to the government on national policies and regulatory matters while also catering to consumer interests it will provide a forum for professionals to exchange ideas, conduct research and promote innovation, he said.
He noted that the lack of a required forum was implemented in order to cater to the needs of the industry with the intention of improving their skills, competencies and standards and to be the voice of the industry in the country and internationally.
In view of the new trends observed in the food processing industry towards a variety of processed and value added food commodities the SLFPA has initiated efforts towards engaging all to work together in meeting the national requirements.
The SLFPA was founded in 1997 and currently consists over 95 member companies and is committed towards the development of the country’s processed food and beverage industry, and also houses members from seven sub sectors addressing issues relating to national policy, intra regional cooperation, technology, knowledge transfer and marketing. |
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