A delegation from the Wuhan University of Science and Technology in China has expressed interest in collaborating with Sri Lanka to explore the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics across key sectors. One of the central proposals discussed is the establishment of a technology laboratory, potentially located at the Arthur C. Clarke Institute for Modern Technologies.
China has offered to support this initiative by providing the technological infrastructure free of charge. As part of the collaboration, the Arthur C. Clarke Centre has been proposed as the site for the new lab, which the Chinese side will fully equip with the necessary instruments.
The Chinese team has also proposed to train local personnel, ensuring knowledge transfer and the long-term sustainability of the project.
Minister of Science and Technology Prof. Chrishantha Abeysena told Ceylon Today that discussions are currently underway between scientists at the Clarke Institute and the Chinese delegation to move the initiative forward. He added that the Institute has been identified as an ideal location for the proposed laboratory.
Another proposed collaboration involves digitising operations at the Colombo Port. In addition to China, the Ministry of Technology holds Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with Pakistan and India. However, only the MoU with India is currently active, supporting an ongoing research programme. Several MoUs signed with China under the previous government remain inactive. The Minister noted that local research initiatives will be integrated into the new partnership with China.
Recently, all deans of agricultural faculties were invited to the Ministry to identify and discuss challenges in the agriculture sector. Following these consultations, affiliated Science and Technology institutions have been tasked with conducting targeted research to develop practical solutions.
Further strengthening bilateral ties, a Sri Lankan delegation recently visited an agricultural university in China, followed by a virtual meeting between academic and research institutions from both countries. The collaboration will also extend to veterinary science under a Government-to-government MoU.
According to Prof. Abeysena, the core focus areas under the China–Sri Lanka Science and Technology cooperation will include power, health, energy, and agriculture.