As artificial intelligence reshapes industries worldwide, Sri Lankan women leaders in technology have called for stronger inclusion, leadership, and participation in shaping the country’s digital future. The discussion took place at Women in Tech – Chapter Reignite, an event marking the relaunch of the Women in Tech Sri Lanka Chapter, part of the global nonprofit dedicated to empowering women in STEM.
Held with participation from government, academia, and industry, the event focused on digital readiness, competitiveness, and women’s leadership in the AI-driven era. Among the speakers were Digital Economy Ministry ICT Director Chanaki Mallikarachchi, Chapter Country Director Sanali Kaushalya, and industry figures including Shehani Seneviratne (99x & SLASSCOM), Nevindaree Premarathne (The Makers Global), Oshana Dias (Fortude), and Sanjini Munaweera (ADA South Asia), moderated by Pulani Ranasinghe (Loons Lab).
Kaushalya said the chapter’s revival aimed to “reignite passion and purpose” while addressing the gender gap in technology. Despite strong representation in science and engineering degrees, fewer women pursue IT careers — a missed opportunity for innovation and inclusive economic growth. “We must create an ecosystem where women are not just participants but leaders and decision-makers,” she emphasized.
Panelists discussed how AI presents both opportunities and risks for inclusion. Seneviratne highlighted Sri Lanka’s Digital Economy Roadmap, which targets growth from $3 billion to $12 billion by 2030, noting that government infrastructure must be matched by private-sector innovation. Premarathne underscored the need for a national AI strategy, while Dias and Munaweera stressed localizing AI datasets, extending inclusion beyond Colombo, and ensuring women’s voices shape technological outcomes.
The speakers agreed that AI should be seen as a tool for empowerment, creativity, and leadership, not intimidation. Women, they said, must actively engage, upskill, and claim space in decision-making to ensure Sri Lanka’s AI transformation is equitable and representative.
