More job opportunities from J'pura study courses

The courses offered by the Department of Food Science and Technology of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura (USJP) are practical which makes the university unique, said Professor K.K.D.S. Ranaweera.

He said the students first get a knowledge of the practical world by conducting surveys which gives them an understanding of what they know and what the industry wants.

The first such survey which gives them an understanding of what crops and resources are available, and about the food related companies. This survey has to be done and presented to the faculty.

They even receive an opportunity to do a survey of the Manning Market which gives them good understanding.

He said that students' suggestions for betterment are considered favourably and changes are done within the parameters.

He said that since the students and the faculty work towards a goal there is a lot of cooperation.

The students understand the value of being with the society and they always look forward to cater to the needs of the society depending on the demand.

The students and the faculty have many links with the industry. Students are sent for implant training in the fourth year to acquire knowledge and understand of the practical background. The duration of the training is 15 weeks.

He said human beings depend on food and health and therefore the importance of Food Science Technology (FST) can never be overlooked.

"The Knowledge on FST has helped to develop the local and international food sector to this level," said Professor Ranaweera.

A student who qualifies in this stream can be employed in many fields including production managers and supervisors, product development technologists, food engineers, food microbiologists, quality assurance managers, research and development officers, academics, technical officers, consultants as well as food writers and media personnel. The USJP has a well developed curricula with a wide coverage on relevant fields.

The Department has been moulding youth through comprehensive programs since 1968 where the department started the post-graduate program.

At present the department offers the MSc program and the PhD in addition to the short term programs for the industry stakeholders.