Mr. Indika De Soyza, Chairman of Federation of Information Technology Industry Sri Lanka, in collaboration with the LK Domain Registry, was at ITN Digital and recently addressed the importance of digitalization in Sri Lanka's future growth.
Mr. Indika De Soyza emphasized that embracing digital technologies is crucial for the country's economic development and social inclusivity. Sri Lanka’s 2030 vision focuses on digital technology as the backbone of progress, including expanding broadband access to 99% of the population, ensuring high-speed internet for institutions, and investing in technologies like artificial intelligence and digital financial services.
The digital economy is a key aspect of Sri Lanka’s long-term growth. Mr. Indika De Soyza highlighted initiatives such as digital government services, cybersecurity improvements, and the promotion of digital startups, aiming to foster a thriving digital ecosystem. By 2030, Sri Lanka plans to significantly increase its ICT-BPM export earnings, expand the digital workforce, and enhance digital literacy across the population.
Sri Lanka’s roadmap focuses on:
- Infrastructure & Connectivity: Ensuring 20 Mbps broadband access for all households and 100 Mbps for key institutions, with 99% coverage across urban and rural areas.
- Skills & Jobs: Aiming for 75% digital literacy and expanding the ICT workforce to 200,000 professionals, while fostering 1,200 digital startups.
- Connected Digital Government: Implementing a citizen authentication platform, a digital payment system, and a data-sharing platform.
- Cybersecurity: Improving Sri Lanka’s position in the Global Cybersecurity Index and enhancing public awareness through cybersecurity programs.
- Digital Financial Services: Expanding financial services to remote areas and increasing digital transactions by 50%.
- Digitalization Across Sectors: Helping 100,000 MSMEs embrace digital solutions and adopting Digital Maturity Roadmaps for key sectors like agriculture, tourism, retail, and health.
In conclusion, Sri Lanka is poised to become a regional leader in digital transformation. With a clear vision for 2030, the country aims to build an inclusive, digitally empowered society, driving economic growth, employment, and financial inclusion.