Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya emphasized the need to establish a strong research culture in Sri Lanka founded on curiosity, academic freedom and integrity.
The Prime Minister made these remarks while participating in the inauguration of the 19th International Research Conference (IRC 2026) held at General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) in Ratmalana.
The main theme of this year’s conference is “Rethinking Governance, Infrastructure and Innovation for a Future Emerging from Crisis.”
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister emphasized that vulnerable communities are the most severely affected during times of crisis, and that the country’s future resilience must be built on a just society that empowers everyone. She further stated that the concept of national security must be broadened to address natural disasters, drug trafficking and emerging challenges, while commending the contribution of the tri-forces during disaster situations such as Cyclone Ditwah.
The Prime Minister noted that researchers within the university system must be given the space to ask challenging questions and push the boundaries of intellectual inquiry. She also emphasized that technologies such as artificial intelligence should not be restricted, but rather approached with an understanding of their ethical and social implications while fostering critical thinking.
The Prime Minister further stated that Sri Lanka should move beyond being merely a user of technologies developed by other countries and instead pursue innovations based on national priorities while contributing to global knowledge.
Deputy minister to the defence aruna jayasekara, Secretary to the ministry of defence Sampath Thuyacontha, (Retd)KDU Vice Chancellor Rear Admiral H.G.U. Dammika Kumara, senior officers of the tri-forces, academics and a large number of researchers were among those present at the occasion.
Prime Minister’s Media Division