Modern day aquaculture is a scientific venture in its entirety. No development in aquaculture can be envisaged unless the exercise is based on scientific principles and new research findings. Hence, the mandate of NAQDA is essentially based on a foundation of scientific research. This has been well thought out from the inception of NAQDA and it is reflected in all aspects of NAQDA activities. At present, the Authority has directed its attention fully to develop scientific skills of its technical staff by training them in diversified fields of subject areas. With the correct exposure of its professional team to the scientific and research activities, NAQDA expects to venture in to advanced scientific research in aquaculture and inland fisheries.

Indeed, research is not something new to the tradition of NAQDA. Its predecessor, former Inland Fisheries Division is the founder of the only aquaculture journal ever published in Sri Lanka, the ‘Journal of Inland Fisheries’. On going ADB funded Aquatic Resources Development and Quality Improvement Project has identified the necessity to develop the research capacity in NAQDA and has allocated provisions for commencing applied research activities in the near future. This will undoubtedly open up a new era of scientific research on aquaculture and inland fisheries in Sri Lanka.

Some members of NAQDA staff have already started research activities with the collaboration of other organizations. Among them, ACIAR supported reservoir fisheries and co-management research program, SANDEE supported economic study on rural aquaculture in seasonal tanks, NSF funded study on invasive exotic species and the collaboration with the World Fish Centre in estimating fish supply and demand in Sri Lanka take pride of place. In addition some of the staff members have conducted their postgraduate dissertations on topics relevant to the scope of NAQDA and published them in various scientific journals.