The “Tech Leaders Connect ‘26” conference, organized by the BCS Sri Lanka Section (BCS The Chartered Institute for IT (Sri Lanka Section) , the country’s leading professional body in the field of information technology, was successfully held recently at the Courtyard by Marriott, Colombo. The primary objective of the event was to raise awareness among industry experts and policymakers about the next decade of Sri Lanka’s digital economy, along with the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
The Chief Guest at the event, Eng. Eranga Weeraratne, Hon. Deputy Minister of the Digital Economy, shared his views on Sri Lanka’s future digital vision and the process of transforming that vision into reality.
In his address, Deputy Minister Weeraratne emphasized that Sri Lanka’s national digital vision for the coming decade should go beyond the mere use of technology, and instead focus on building a fully integrated digital ecosystem that is closely connected with citizens’ daily lives and the national economy.
Highlighting several key priorities required to realize this vision, he stressed the importance of establishing secure digital infrastructure that is easily accessible to every citizen.
He further stated that enhancing transparency and efficiency through a data-driven system of governance, as well as fostering a culture of innovation capable of competing in global markets, are among the government’s core objectives.
The Deputy Minister also elaborated on the steps already taken by the government to turn this vision into reality. In particular, he noted that the government has given priority to accelerating digital transformation through key initiatives such as the digitalization of public services and the fast-tracking of the digital identity system.
However, he also provided an analysis of the major implementation challenges faced in this journey. He pointed out that updating outdated legal frameworks, managing required financial allocations effectively, and retaining skilled professionals within the country remain some of the most significant obstacles to successful implementation.
The keynote address of the event was delivered by Mr. Tushera Kawdawatta, Managing Director of Sysco LABS Sri Lanka.
This was followed by a special panel discussion featuring Hon. Chathuranga Abeysinghe, Deputy Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, and Mr. Waruna Sri Dhanapala, Acting Secretary to the Ministry of the Digital Economy. Under the moderation of Mr. Alanzo Doll, the discussion covered a range of important topics, including industry readiness, capacity building, and the responsibilities of professional institutions.
