Hon. Minister of Science and Technology Visits Sri Lanka Gamma Centre
Hon. Minister of Science and Technology Visits Sri Lanka Gamma Centre
The Hon. Minister of Science and Technology, Prof. Chrishantha Abeysena, conducted an official inspection visit to the Sri Lanka Gamma Centre (SLGC) on 19th February 2026.
The Centre, located at the Biyagama Export Processing Zone, operates under the Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Board (SLAEB), which functions under the Ministry of Science and Technology. The visit was attended by Mr. Mohamed Nawawi, Secretary to the Ministry, together with senior Ministry and SLAEB officials.
Strengthening National Scientific Infrastructure
During the visit, the Minister reviewed the Centre’s operational performance, service capacity, and ongoing development plans. SLGC provides high-quality, internationally compliant gamma irradiation services to the medical, pharmaceutical, food, and agricultural sectors using advanced Cobalt-60 (Co-60) technology.
Discussions focused on the strategic importance of expanding SLGC’s operational capacity to meet increasing domestic and international demand. The Centre was recognized as a critical national asset with the potential to enhance export competitiveness, generate foreign exchange earnings, and strengthen Sri Lanka’s scientific and industrial capabilities.
Addressing National Food Safety Priorities
A key point highlighted during the meeting was SLGC’s ability to support national food safety initiatives. In particular, gamma irradiation can play a significant role in reducing aflatoxin contamination in maize (corn), which is a primary ingredient in Thriposha a nutritional supplement widely used in Sri Lanka.
By improving food safety standards and minimizing health risks associated with contaminated grains, SLGC can directly contribute to public health protection and national nutrition security.
Critical Support to the Health Sector
The Centre’s essential role in supporting the healthcare system was further emphasized. SLGC provides sterilization services for a wide range of medical products, including:
- Surgical gloves and syringes
- Surgical aprons and drapes
- Gauze, cotton swabs, bandages, plasters, and dressings
- Nasal and throat swabs (particularly during the COVID-19 period)
- Eye pads and umbilical cord clamps
- Scalpels, surgical blades, sutures, spinal needles, and other surgical items
Through these services, SLGC ensures the sterility, safety, and quality of critical medical supplies, thereby safeguarding patients and healthcare professionals while strengthening the resilience of the national healthcare system.
Future Outlook with Co-60 Source Upgrade
With the planned upgrade of the Co-60 source, the Centre will significantly enhance its irradiation capacity and operational efficiency. This upgrade will enable SLGC to:
- Increase service throughput and reduce turnaround times
- Better support local manufacturers and exporters
- Minimize reliance on foreign sterilization facilities
- Improve cost effectiveness and competitiveness
- Contribute positively to national economic growth
The Minister’s visit reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening scientific infrastructure and maximizing the strategic contribution of the Sri Lanka Gamma Centre in advancing public health, food safety, industrial development, and economic sustainability in Sri Lanka.