Munchee, the flagship brand of Ceylon Biscuits Limited (CBL), recently supported the Association of Food Science and Technology (AFST) aligned to the Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, in a novel initiative to bridge the gap between industry and academic research.
CBL as the main sponsor of Optimus’18, organised by AFST, highlighted the growing importance of the food industry and university in collaborating, sharing knowledge and building long-term relationships which is mutually beneficial to both parties.
One of the main objectives of the event was to recognise and award prizes to the winners of the research competition organised by AFST. Over 50 research proposals were accepted from graduates and postgraduates of the department with 20 papers short listed by an eminent University panel.
From among the six finalists, the winner of the Graduate category was Roshima Vithanage for research on the ‘Analysis of Antioxidant capacity, Total Phenolic Content and Physiochemical properties of raw extract, Pectinase treated extract and cellulose treated extract of pineapple waste.’
In the Postgraduate category, Ajani Chandrika Wijeratne won for research on the ‘Physiochemical properties of rice based herbal biscuit incorporated with the decoction of syzygium cumini bark’.
The keynote address at Optimus ’18 was delivered by Prof. Ajith de Alwis, Professor of the Department, Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Moratuwa while the Guest of Honour was Dr. L.T. Gamalath, Deputy Director General of Health Services, Ministry of Health.
Prof. de Alwis said, “Looking at the role of industry and university, we need serious industry-university interaction.
The research needs to translate into rupees as it is very important going beyond one or two events creating new levels of partnership and importantly a sense of togetherness.
“The best way is having continuous research projects and trouble-shooting where the industry gives projects to the university and with the university reacting with answers. Both parties must take a proactive role, the industry walking into the university system and students walking outside into the industry creating dynamic exchanges,” he said.
Chief Executive Officer, CBL, Nalin Karunaratne said, “Our association with Optimus ’18 is part of our ongoing initiatives to bridge the knowledge gap between industry, universities and academic research and not a one-off alliance.” A host of academia from the University, Health Ministry officials, representatives from allied industries, past and present students of the department, and the media were also present.
The Association also launched the new edition of its popular magazine ‘FoodInc’18’ with a collection of interesting and thought-provoking essays. Another noteworthy highlight was the unveiling of the Association’s website.
President of the Association of Food Science and Technology, Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Sri J’pura, Isuru Bandara said, “We believe this event will serve as an impetus to attract more research participants so that there will be opportunities in the industry.”