The National Science Foundation (NSF) successfully conducted a Networking Session on the National Instrument Database (NID) on 8 October 2026 at the NSF Auditorium. The event brought together over 60 participants representing universities, R&D institutes, and government and private-sector organizations to strengthen collaboration and enhance the effectiveness of the NID.
The event commenced with a welcome address delivered by Prof. Shiromi Perera, Director General of NSF, followed by introductory remarks from Dr. Shantha Siri, Additional Director of the NSF. Both speakers emphasized the importance of maintaining up-to-date information in the NID to facilitate resource sharing, strengthen research collaboration, and maximize the utilization of existing research facilities.
A key session on the objectives and functionalities of the NID was conducted by Eng. Mahesh Dissanayake, Head of the Research Division and Mr. Manuja Karunaratne, Head of the National Science Library and Resource Centre (NSLRC) of NSF. The session highlighted the role of the NID as a national platform designed to provide comprehensive information on scientific instruments available across Sri Lanka.
One of the major highlights of the programme was the official launch of the new “Instrument Care” module of the NID, which is developed to facilitate the maintenance, servicing, and management of scientific instruments to support institutions in improving instrument upkeep and extending the operational lifespan of valuable scientific instruments.
A live demonstration of the “Instrument Care” module was subsequently conducted by Ms. Thasneem Niyas, Senior Information Officer of the NSLRC, illustrating the module’s features. The discussion focused on existing challenges in updating the NID and explored possible mitigation measures to improve data accuracy, completeness, and institutional participation. The participants also engaged in a networking session, creating opportunities for knowledge sharing, interaction among institutional representatives and shared experiences and recommendations aimed at enhancing the sustainability and effectiveness of the platform.
The session concluded with closing remarks and a vote of thanks delivered by Eng. Sureshinie Warnasooriya, Coordinator of the National Instrument Database, who acknowledged the continued support of participating institutions in strengthening the NID.