Sri Lanka’s renewed focus on marine research and collaboration with international partners is a promising step towards harnessing the potential of the nation’s rich maritime resources and bolstering the blue economy, according to Rear Admiral YN Jayarathna (retired), former chief of staff and chief hydrographer of the Sri Lanka Navy.
Emphasising the significance of marine research collaboration with other countries, Jayarathna said: “Marine research collaboration with any country is important, as those data are vital for Sri Lanka. The experience students gain is crucial for their careers.”
He pointed out the need to secure both raw and processed data when conducting research with foreign vessels. This data, he said, plays a pivotal role in comprehending weather patterns, especially for optimising agricultural activities.
Regrettably, Sri Lanka’s policy-makers have in the past suffered from what Jayarathna referred to as “maritime blindness”. This lack of maritime awareness has led to missed opportunities and the failure to fully harness the potential advantages offered by the nation’s vast marine resources.
“The government’s financial support for ocean research initiatives has been limited, prompting universities to rely on foreign grants. Also, some research data are not available today, and a significant number of talented scientists have left the country, taking their valuable insights with them,” Jayarathna told University World News.
The establishment of the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), a statutory body established in 1981, and the department of oceanography and marine geology at the University of Ruhuna marked a turning point in the country’s commitment to marine research.
Before NARA’s establishment, Sri Lanka’s education system placed limited emphasis on marine research and universities primarily concentrated on land-based studies. However, the visionary leadership of individuals like Professor Ruchira Cumaranatunga at the University of Ruhuna saw the university playing a pioneering role in the field of marine research.
A research vessel built by the Sri Lanka Navy was handed over to the University of Ruhuna for the purpose of enhancing fisheries, marine sciences education and research in Sri Lanka.