The free education system in Sri Lanka is a powerful gift that has given many of us the wings to fly, Chamali Kodikara, a PhD student in Canada, who has just been elected as the next President of Institute of Food Technologists Student Association (IFTSA) said.
A student-governed community of the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), IFTSA has more than 2,300 members across 60 countries. Chamali spoke to the Sunday Observer on her recent achievements and future aspirations.
Excerpts of the interview:
Q: Congratulations on being President-Elect of the Institute of Food Technologists Student Association (IFTSA). What does this achievement mean to you personally and professionally?
A: I am honoured to be the first Canadian and Sri Lankan student to be the President-Elect of IFTSA. Personally, it reflects not only my own journey, but also the support of my mentors, peers, and the communities that have shaped me. Professionally, it is a powerful opportunity to serve and represent a global network of food science students.
I see this role as a chance to amplify diverse voices, build more inclusive spaces, and lead initiatives that empower students to drive innovation and positive change in the food system. IFTSA has shaped my leadership and academic journey, and now I have the opportunity to shape its future by making it more inclusive, innovative, and impactful.
Q: Can you describe your family and educational background in Sri Lanka?
A: I was born and raised in Kandy, in a middle-income family that values education and perseverance. My parents encouraged curiosity and discipline, which provided a strong foundation for my academic success.
I attended Seethadevi Girls’ College, Kandy, and Kandy Girls High School. I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science and Fisheries at the Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya.
My undergraduate supervisor, Prof. Janak Vidanarachchi created many opportunities for me, including scholarships.
Q: Coming from Sri Lanka, how has your background influenced your journey in food science and your leadership style?
A: Although my academic background began in Animal Science and Fisheries at the University of Peradeniya, my journey into food science was anything but conventional. During my undergraduate studies, I worked on a nanotechnology-based project to develop a reactor that could remove odour from fish storage facilities. That research received both national and international recognition and sparked my interest in applied science and innovation.
Later, I pursued Analytical Chemistry at Uppsala University in Sweden with an ERASMUS scholarship, which gave me a strong foundation in advanced instrumentation and critical thinking.
It was not until I joined Dr. Nandika Bandara’s group at the University of Manitoba that I officially transitioned into food science, and he encouraged me to join IFT.
Coming from a multidisciplinary background has given me a broader perspective and a deep appreciation for cross-sector collaboration. I value inclusivity, innovation, and building bridges between disciplines and cultures. My Sri Lankan roots taught me to lead with humility, resourcefulness, and a strong sense of community.
Q: What are the challenges you have come across as an international student?
A: The initial challenges included cultural adjustment, navigating unfamiliar academic systems, and finding a sense of belonging. I experienced moments of self-doubt and homesickness, but I am grateful for the strong life partner with whom I could share anything, as well as my supportive supervisors.
These experiences, however, strengthened my resilience, adaptability, and global perspective. Additionally, I became more self-driven and confident in communicating across cultures.
Q: What motivated you to pursue food science, and what inspired you to get involved with IFTSA?
A: Food science captivates me as it weaves together my passions for biology, chemistry, health, and sustainability. IFTSA particularly appeals to me because it provides a unique platform for connecting with peers from around the globe.
The student-led approach of IFTSA has reinforced my belief in the power of youth leadership to shape the future of food science.
Q: In your view, what are the major issues/challenges food and animal industries face in Sri Lanka? What can be done to mitigate such problems?
A: Sri Lanka’s biggest strength is its people. We have produced world-class experts in agriculture, food science, and veterinary fields who are contributing globally. These individuals were born, raised, and educated in Sri Lanka, which speaks volumes about the intellectual capacity within the country.
However, despite this talent, the food and animal industries face major hurdles due to limited access to advanced technologies, weak infrastructure, and inconsistent policy implementation. Cold storage, supply chain systems, and research-to-practice integration are lacking, which affects productivity and quality.
To overcome these issues, Sri Lanka must focus on upgrading infrastructure, supporting technology adoption, and ensuring evidence-based policies that work with, not against farmers and producers.
Q: Could you explain how your doctoral research could contribute to safer food systems in countries like Sri Lanka?
A: I conduct my PhD research at the Canadian Grain Commission under the supervision of Dr. Sheryl Tittlemier, and also with Dr. Nandika Bandara at the University of Manitoba.
My work focuses on developing innovative methods and comparing analytical and processing methods to detect and mitigate ergot alkaloids, harmful toxins produced by fungi that contaminate cereal grains.
By improving high-resolution detection techniques and exploring novel processing technologies like cold plasma, my research aims to make food systems safer, especially in countries like Sri Lanka, where grain is a staple.
Safer, more efficient testing methods can help protect public health, reduce food waste, improve food security, and support farmers and exporters by meeting stricter international safety standards.
Q: What specific initiatives or changes would you like to introduce to make IFTSA more inclusive globally?
A: The IFT and its Student Association bring together like-minded individuals passionate about advancing the science of food. With members from over 90 countries, IFT and IFTSA provide unmatched opportunities for professional development, networking, leadership, and collaborative learning.
To ensure that these benefits reach students everywhere, especially those in underrepresented or developing regions, I believe we must work toward greater global inclusion.
As President-Elect of IFTSA, I aim to introduce initiatives such as a global mentorship program that connects students across continents, expand the representation of international students in leadership roles, and organise virtual events and competitions that are accessible across time zones and languages.
I want to create more platforms for students to share regional food system challenges and innovations, giving voice to diverse experiences and solutions.
Q: Food systems today face many challenges like food insecurity and misinformation. In your view, what role can young scientists play in addressing these global issues?
A: Young scientists can be powerful advocates for evidence-based practices. We can challenge misinformation by communicating science in accessible ways, collaborating across disciplines to develop sustainable solutions, and influencing policy through data-driven insights.
Q: You have studied in both Sri Lanka and Canada. How would you compare the academic and research environments between the two countries?
A: Each country has contributed uniquely to my academic and personal growth. In Sri Lanka, I received a strong theoretical foundation and developed resilience, critical thinking, and creativity in resource-limited environments. The dedication of educators and the competitiveness among students foster a culture of excellence, even when infrastructure is limited.
In Sweden, I experienced a highly structured and student-centred system. There was a strong emphasis on independent learning, collaboration, and open dialogue between students and professors. The focus on sustainability and innovation in Sweden also had a deep influence on how I approach science and problem-solving.
In Canada, I have been exposed to a dynamic and well-resourced research ecosystem. It offers cutting-edge facilities, strong interdisciplinary collaboration, and significant funding opportunities. I have had the chance to take my research further, contribute to high-impact projects, and build leadership skills within global networks like IFTSA.
Q: What advice would you give to Sri Lankan students who are aspiring to build international careers?
A: Sri Lankan students are talented, and my biggest message is: believe in yourself, you have what it takes. We are lucky to come from an education system that, despite its challenges, gives us strong academic discipline, critical thinking, and a deep respect for learning.
The free education system, in particular, is a powerful gift, it has given so many of us the wings to fly. It opens doors that many around the world can only dream of, and it is up to us to walk through them with confidence.
We also have exceptional mentors and peers who guide and challenge us to grow. So, take the leap. Apply for international programs, seek mentors, ask questions, and be bold in your ambitions. Your story, your background, and your determination matter.
Q: Looking ahead, what are your long-term goals?
A: My long-term goal is to become a global leader in food safety research and innovation, with a focus on developing sustainable and accessible solutions to improve food systems, particularly in vulnerable regions.
I want to continue advancing methods for detecting and mitigating food contaminants like mycotoxins, and ensure these technologies are practical for real-world use.
I am passionate about leadership and mentorship. I hope to empower the next generation of scientists, especially those from underrepresented regions, through global initiatives, education, and policy engagement. Ultimately, I want to bridge the gap between science and action by contributing to food policies and programs that improve public health, support farmers, and strengthen global food security.
