Serendib Flour Mills has demonstrated its commitment to the development of its workforce and technical excellence with the recent international academic success of Tharindu Ihalagedara, an Assistant Miller who earned the Silver Medal at the International School of Milling Technology (ISMT), part of the CSIR–Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) in India.
The ISMT, located in Mysuru, India, is renowned globally as one of the leading institutions for milling education. Operating under the CSIR–CFTRI, which is part of India’s foremost national research and development organization, the school has a long-standing tradition of excellence. It is acclaimed worldwide for enhancing professional expertise in flour milling and grain processing, drawing participants from Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and beyond. ISMT’s intensive residential programs combine scientific theory with practical plant training, laboratory work, and industrial best practices, fostering a challenging academic environment that cultivates technical leaders for the global milling industry.
In this competitive international environment, Ihalagedara completed the esteemed one-year residential Flour Milling Technology Certificate Course, achieving the second-highest marks in his program and earning the Silver Medal. This achievement is a significant personal milestone and reflects Serendib Flour Mills’ strategic focus on developing high-quality technical talent.
An alumnus of the University of Moratuwa, Ihalagedara began his career with Serendib Flour Mills as an Assistant Miller, equipped with a strong academic background and a dedication to operational excellence. His consistent performance, technical discipline, and dedication within the milling function led to his selection for advanced professional training at CFTRI, an institution celebrated globally for its contributions to food technology, grain science, and milling innovation.
For Serendib Flour Mills, investing in people is a crucial component of maintaining operational leadership and long-term competitiveness. The company proactively identifies and nurtures high-potential professionals by providing them with access to internationally respected educational platforms that enhance technical skills, operational efficiency, and industry knowledge. This exposure to global best practices ensures that their local operations are continuously aligned with world-class standards.
Ihalagedara’s achievement exemplifies Serendib’s core belief that organizational growth is driven by the growth of its people. By equipping its professionals with advanced knowledge and international exposure from one of the world’s leading milling institutions, Serendib underscores its commitment to continuous learning as a catalyst for excellence, innovation, and sustainability.
This accomplishment highlights how global exposure can enhance local expertise, contributing directly to operational precision, product quality, and leadership in Sri Lanka’s milling and food manufacturing sector.
As Serendib Flour Mills pursues its mission of nourishing the nation, it remains dedicated to developing technical leaders who will shape the future of the industry. Through structured capability development and partnerships with globally respected institutions like CFTRI, the company not only solidifies its position as an industry leader but also as an employer that values learning, performance, and professional growth.
Image Caption: Tharindu Ihalagedara – Assistant Miller – Serendib Flour Mills (Pvt) Ltd
