A Digital Revolution: Sri Lanka’s Leap into Artificial Intelligence
The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) government is setting the stage for a digital transformation in Sri Lanka with a new policy that prioritizes Artificial Intelligence. Led by Sajith Premadasa, the initiative aims to modernize the country’s tech landscape, emphasizing digital literacy and private sector collaboration to enhance economic growth.
Introduction
In an era where technology defines the pace of progress, Sri Lanka is poised to embrace a digital revolution. Under the leadership of Sajith Premadasa, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) government has unveiled a comprehensive National Digitization Policy aimed at propelling the country into the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI). This ambitious initiative, launched at the Lakshman Kadirgamar Institute in Colombo, brings together policymakers, scholars, and experts to redefine the digital landscape of Sri Lanka, intending to bridge a significant technological gap with the rest of the world.
The Need for Digitization
Eran Wickramaratne, a key figure in the formulation of this policy and a former chairman of the Information and Communication Technology Agency (ICTA), emphasized the necessity of digitization for national development. He noted that while global advancements in AI leave many nations thriving, Sri Lanka finds itself lagging by approximately two decades in terms of information technology infrastructure. This underscores the urgency of the SJB’s mission to place digital technology at the forefront of governance, education, and economic development.
Transforming Mindsets
The policy is not merely about adopting new technologies; it is fundamentally about transforming the mindset of the population towards digital literacy. In a world where digital skills are becoming the new benchmark for literacy, the SJB government recognizes that equipping citizens with these skills is paramount. By prioritizing education in technology, the government aims to create a workforce that can meet global demands and contribute effectively to the economy.
Economic Implications
Wickramaratne further elaborated on the economic implications of this digital initiative. With a digitally literate populace, Sri Lanka can harness its geographical advantages and human resources to tap into international markets, ultimately enhancing economic resilience and financial independence for households. By fostering a conducive environment for innovation, including the expansion of high-speed internet across the nation, the SJB government aims to:
- Create an ecosystem that attracts investments
- Encourage private sector participation
Legal and Ethical Considerations
However, the integration of AI and advanced technologies also raises pressing legal and ethical questions. Wickramaratne pointed out the importance of developing legal frameworks to address the challenges posed by new technologies, particularly AI applications like ChatGPT. The government recognizes that proactive legislation is essential to ensure ethical practices and protect citizens in this rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Conclusion
As Sri Lanka stands on the brink of this digital transformation, the SJB government’s commitment to prioritizing AI and digital literacy reflects a broader understanding of the role technology plays in shaping modern society. By investing in human capital and fostering a collaborative environment with the private sector, Sri Lanka aims to not only catch up but potentially lead in the digital domain.
Sri Lanka’s new digital policy marks a significant step towards a future where technology and human capability converge. As the nation embarks on this journey, the focus on AI, digital literacy, and the necessary legal frameworks will be crucial in ensuring that this digital revolution benefits all citizens and stimulates sustainable economic growth.
