The Computer Society of Sri Lanka (CSSL) has launched an ambitious 2030 strategy aimed at positioning Sri Lanka as a global leader in the digital economy. Announced at its 36th Annual General Meeting, the plan is closely aligned with the principles of Society 5.0, a concept focused on creating a human-centric, technology-driven society.
CSSL’s vision aims to integrate advanced digital technologies into all aspects of life to drive economic growth, improve quality of life, and contribute to Sri Lanka’s goal of building a $15 billion digital economy by 2030. This includes $5 billion in exports and the creation of a 200,000-strong workforce.
At the core of the strategy is a focus on innovation and entrepreneurship. CSSL aims to empower individuals and businesses to harness emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain. By fostering a culture of innovation and providing the necessary tools and mentorship, CSSL seeks to equip Sri Lankans with the skills needed to thrive in a fast-evolving digital landscape. This focus on human capital development not only strengthens the country’s competitive edge but also aligns with the core principles of Society 5.0, where people remain at the heart of technological progress.
CSSL President Heshan Karunaratne reflected on this transformative vision, stating, “Our goal is to catalyze a progressive future for Sri Lanka by embracing the principles of Society 5.0, ensuring that technological advancements lead to a more inclusive and sustainable society.” This statement encapsulates the organisation’s commitment to leveraging technology as a tool for economic growth and societal development.
The strategy also emphasizes inclusivity, aiming to bridge the digital divide in Sri Lanka. The plan seeks to expand high-speed internet access, improve digital literacy, and ensure that underserved communities can actively participate in the digital economy. These efforts are essential for creating a more inclusive digital ecosystem, which is crucial to achieving CSSL’s ambitious goals.
Sustainability is another key element of the strategy. CSSL aims to promote a “Clean Sri Lanka” through the adoption of smart technologies. The roadmap incorporates digital solutions to support environmental conservation, smart cities, and renewable energy adoption. Technologies such as data-driven platforms can enhance waste collection efficiency, while IoT-enabled systems can optimize energy consumption and reduce carbon emissions. These solutions not only address pressing environmental challenges but also align with Sri Lanka’s commitment to achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs).
The strategy further emphasizes the integration of digital platforms to educate and engage the public on sustainability initiatives. Through innovative apps and awareness campaigns, CSSL aims to empower communities to adopt eco-friendly practices, contributing to a cleaner, greener future.
CSSL’s vision also integrates disruptive technologies to address various societal challenges. From revolutionizing healthcare and education to promoting sustainable urban development, the strategy uses innovation to improve the lives of Sri Lankans while driving economic growth. This human-centric approach is a hallmark of Society 5.0, ensuring that technology benefits not just profit but the greater good. The roadmap highlights the importance of balancing economic progress with social well-being, ensuring technological advancements contribute to a more equitable and sustainable society.
Sri Lanka’s current economic challenges underscore the timeliness of CSSL’s vision. As the nation recovers from recent hardships, digital transformation offers a path to resilience and long-term growth. By embracing this strategy, Sri Lanka can unlock new opportunities for job creation, economic diversification, and foreign investment, positioning itself as a leader in the regional and global digital economy.
Collaboration and partnerships are key to CSSL’s strategy. By uniting government bodies, private enterprises, academia, and civil society, CSSL is creating a collaborative ecosystem that fosters innovation and ensures equitable access to digital opportunities. These partnerships are essential for addressing complex challenges and driving the nation’s digital transformation.
The 2024/25 CSSL Council Members include:
- President: Heshan Karunaratne (SPIL Glass Software)
- Vice President: Indika De Zoysa (Huawei Technologies Lanka Co. Ltd.)
- Secretary: Udesh I.W. Seneviratna (Finance Ministry)
- Treasurer: Dr. Amal Illesinghe (NSB Retired CIO)
- Assistant Treasurer: Rasantha Hettithanthrige (Mobitel Ltd.)
- Assistant Secretary: Dr. Manjusri Wickramasinghe (University of Colombo School of Computing)
- Publication Secretary: Lakmal Embuldeniya (Henkei Corporation Academy for Presales)
- Student Counsellor: Dr. Nirosha Wedasinghe (General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University)
- Council Members: Dr. Ajantha Atukorale (University of Colombo School of Computing Past Student), Ruvendra Gunasena (Hemas Holding PLC), Chanaki Mallikarachchi (Digital Economy Ministry Sri Lanka), Chethana Kahandugoda (LB Finance PLC)
CSSL’s 2030 strategy offers a visionary path for Sri Lanka to become a digital powerhouse, focusing on innovation, inclusivity, sustainability, and social good, while ensuring that technology drives both economic growth and societal development.
