The Central Institute of Science and Technology (CIST) is an independent think tank dedicated to conducting research in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines.
The main objective of the CIST is to promote scientific research as to improve the progress of the scientific and technological level of the country which will contribute to increase the welfare of the citizens.
CIST is the first institute in the country to conduct research on quality of higher education in Sri Lanka. CIST also plays an important role in the formation of new researchers and technicians in the different aspects of the science and the technology.
CIST collaborates with other institutions such as public universities, non state higher education institutes, vocational training centers, international universities, professional associations, other public and private research organisms and with social, economic, national or foreign agents to which contributes with its research capacity and human and material resources in the development of research projects or under the form of consultancy and scientific and technical support.
The CIST has done many research studies to analyze the needs of the industry and the job market in order to design and develop market/industry oriented study programmes for higher education institutions in Sri Lanka.
CIST is mandated to ensure quality assurance of the higher education institutions of Sri Lanka and to rate and rank education institutes and study programmes in the country.