Rs. 6.4b Nano Park to attract scientists

Hiran H. Senewiratne

The Science and Technology Ministry is looking at possibilities of attracting local and foreign scientists and researchers for the proposed Nano-Technology Park which will be constructed at Homagama, sources said.

The Nano Park is a Government initiated project for local industrialists to carry out nano-technology based research and development activities, National Science Foundation (NSF) Chairperson Prof. Srimalee Fernando told the Daily News.

The Government has ear-marked a 66 acre land at Pitipana in Homagama to construct one of most sophisticated nano parks in the region.

The Treasury has released Rs. 200 million to purchase equipment for the project which is being conducted at a temporary premises in Biyagama.

"The total investment for the construction of the Nano Park is estimated at Rs. 6.4 billion (US $56 million) and we are now looking for assistance from an international donor agency to construct it within the shortest possible time," Prof. Fernando said.

The temporary park, a private/public partnership, is known as SLIM Tech, involved in several companies including Brandix, Dialog GSM, MAS Holding, Hayleys and Load Star. The park will also attract local science graduates in the future, She said.

"Once the nano-technology park is open at Pitipana, it will attract foreign and Sri Lanka scientists/researchers working overseas to work here and carry out nano-technology based research and development work for the local industrial sector. In time to come, we could impart this service to other countries," she said.

Prof. Fernando said Sri Lanka could create a revolution in this area as Information Communication Technology (ICT) has created a major breakthrough in the area of technology.

"We are currently focusing on several industries - natural rubber, apparel, energy and telecommunication sectors in the country.

Initially we expect to recruit 40 scientists and researchers at Pitipana Nano Park,which is expected to go up to 250", she said.

Prof. Fernando said they are working with local and foreign universities and research institutions to promote the technology and technology transfer exercise for the park.