Minister Vitarana says SL expects to increase high tech value added exports from 1.5% to 10% by 2016

Prof Tissa Vitarana 16th Session

Senior Minister for Scientific Affairs, Prof Tissa Vitarana told the 16^th Session of the Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD) held in Geneva last week, that Sri Lanka which is now a middle income country expects to increase the contribution of high tech value added exports to the national economy from the present 1.5% to 10% by 2016 through the implementation of the National strategy for Science, Technology and Innovation. Revealing details of the national strategy he mentioned that in line with the target of doubling its per capita GDP to USD 4000 by 2016, the strategy is aimed at achieving effective social economic development, through research directed on national needs, use of advanced technologies and building a culture of techno – entrepreneurship between the public & private sector partnership.

Prof. Vitarana made this observation when he participated in the Ministerial Roundtable on “Harnessing Science and Technology to address development challenges” organized at the 16^th Session of the Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD) held on 3^rd June 2013 in Geneva. The Roundtable which focused on how science, technology and innovation could promote inclusive and sustainable development in countries, provided a forum for the policy makers to exchange experiences, best practices and to discuss challenges faced at national level.

Ministerial Roundtable speech :

Full Statement by the Minister :