Dr. Kolita Kamal Jinadasa, Minister of Fisheries in Sri Lanka, recently visited Matís in connection with an international meeting on fisheries management held in Harpa. The visit marked a turning point in his career, as he worked on a research project at Matís in 2010–2011 while studying at the United Nations School of Fisheries (now GRÓ).
Jinadasa's stay in Iceland proved formative and has had a significant impact on his work and vision for the development of the fisheries sector. In interviews, he has emphasized the importance of the practical experience and research environment he gained at Matís, where he gained insight into fisheries management, quality management and raw material utilization – including the development of by-products from marine catch.
"Iceland can share its knowledge, experience and plans in fisheries management with the world," says Jinadasa in an interview in Morgunblaðið which appeared this week. He also mentions that he was particularly interested in how waste could be used as by-products.
Today, Jinadasa plays a key role in developing a sustainable fisheries sector in Sri Lanka, focusing on food security, increased value creation, and improved management systems. He draws on the knowledge and experience he gained in Iceland, among other things.
The Secretary of State's visit underscores the importance of Matís as an international partner in research and knowledge sharing in the fisheries sector, as the company plays a key role in sharing Icelandic knowledge and supporting the development of sustainable food systems globally.
Photo: Dr. Kolita Kamal Jinadasa (center) with Jónas R. Viðarsson (left), Director of Research at Matís, and Oddur Má Gunnarsson (right), CEO of Matís.