Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Mihintale, Sri Lanka
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Rajarata University of Sri Lanka and Lakmee Exports Lanka (Pvt.) Limited through the University Business Linkage Cell on the 10th of November 2022 at the Rajarata University of Sri Lanka premises at Mihintale.
The MoU was signed with the objectives of commercializing the AHEAD/RA3/RIC/RJT/Omega research outcomes customized for Lakmee Exports Lanka (Pvt) Limited and other Rajarata University research outcomes. In addition to that, both parties will collaboratively work towards further product development upon mutual agreement.
As a part of the commercialization process, the four license agreements were signed enabling Lakmee Exports Lanka (Pvt.) Limited to develop Omega 3-added food items. Omega 3 has significant health benefits including enhancing the immune, preventing coronary heart diseases, anti-cancer & anti-apoptotic effects, reducing TG levels and cholesterol, and vision, brain & neural development. The Rajarata University of Sri Lanka received an upfront fee from the commercial partner for the technology exchange.
The Vice Chancellor of Rajarata University Prof. (Mrs.) G.A.S. Ginigaddara, Prof. Ranjith Edirisinghe, Dean, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Dr. Manoj Samarathunga, Director, University Business Linkage Cell, Mr. Ushan Udumulla, Managing Director, Lakmee Exports Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, Mr. Duminda Weerasinghe, Chief Executive Officer – Lakmee Exports Lanka (Pvt) Ltd and Mrs. Sujeewa Manel, Director, Lakmee Exports Lanka (Pvt) Ltd signed the MOU on behalf of the respective organizations. The event was also graced by the presence of Deans of other faculties, the Librarian, the Heads of Departments, Professors, members of the Anuradhapura Chamber of Commerce, and other invitees.
Commercializing research outcomes related to Omega 3 and developing Omega 3-added food items aligns with SDG 2 by contributing to food innovation that may have positive impacts on nutrition and health.
Omega 3 has significant health benefits, including enhancing the immune system, preventing coronary heart diseases, and supporting vision, brain, and neural development. The initiative contributes to SDG 3 by promoting good health and well-being.
The collaboration and commercialization efforts contribute to SDG 8 by fostering decent work and economic growth through technology exchange, product development, and the creation of economic opportunities.
The collaboration focuses on commercializing research outcomes and developing products, aligning with SDG 9’s goal of promoting industry, innovation, and the development of infrastructure.
The development of Omega 3-added food items and the commercialization process align with SDG 12 by promoting responsible consumption and production practices that consider the health benefits of the products.
The signing of the MoU and collaboration between the university and Lakmee Exports Lanka (Pvt.) Limited reflects a partnership (SDG 17) between academia and the private sector to achieve common goals related to research, innovation, and economic development.
