CSSL proposed to establish a Chartered ICT Professional Entity for Sri Lanka

The Computer Society of Sri Lanka (CSSL) proudly inaugurated the 42nd edition of the National Information Technology Conference (NITC) 2024, under the transformative theme “Catalyzing the Progressive Future Towards Society 5.0”. This year's conference brings together luminaries from the technology, policy, and academic spheres to discuss the pivotal role of technology in building a smarter, inclusive, and sustainable society.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Ajantha Atukorale, President of CSSL, underscored the importance of leveraging technology not only for economic growth but also to enhance human well-being. The focus of Society 5.0 - a vision that bridges the digital and physical realms - aligns with this year’s NITC theme, emphasizing technology's role in addressing humanity’s most pressing challenges.

In his address, Dr. Atukorale highlighted the global transition into Society 5.0, describing it as an era where innovations like Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, and big data work synergistically to enhance quality of life. Unlike earlier industrial revolutions, Society 5.0 prioritizes human-centered values, with an emphasis on inclusivity, sustainability, and technological empowerment.

Society 5.0 is not just about technological advancement. It is about using innovation to uplift humanity, he stated. From AI-powered telemedicine improving healthcare access to smart cities addressing urban challenges, the possibilities are boundless.

Adding his voice to this vision, Dr. Ajantha Atukorale, a renowned technologist, emphasized the responsibility of the ICT community to act as stewards of change: As we embrace Society 5.0, our focus must remain on creating technological solutions that are inclusive and sustainable. The ultimate measure of progress is not in the sophistication of our tools but in how they improve lives and foster equity.

The target is ambitious but achievable, he said. “We must scale our current USD 3.7 billion ICT contribution to USD 15 billion, significantly enhancing its role as a key driver of the national GDP and economic growth”. This requires a united national strategy, investment in innovation, and commitment to empowering our youth.

To further support this transition, the CSSL President proposed establishing a Chartered ICT Professional Entity, which would foster a resilient and sustainable ICT workforce. He also advocated for recognizing the ICT sector as a distinct industry within the national economy, a step that could catalyze Sri Lanka’s digital transformation.

Sri Lanka’s journey toward Society 5.0 presents immense potential. The nation’s talent pool, resilience, and strategic positioning offer a significant opportunity to emerge as a regional leader in this transformative era. The President remarked on the critical role of collaboration among policymakers, educators, industry leaders, and innovators in realizing this vision. Highlighting the establishment of the Ministry of Digital Economy by the Sri Lankan government, he noted the significance of cohesive efforts in positioning Sri Lanka as a global digital hub by 2030.

Reflecting on the government’s efforts, Deputy Minister Eranga Udesh Weeraratne reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to driving the digital transformation: “The establishment of the Ministry of Digital Economy is a testament to our commitment to a digital-first future. By investing in infrastructure, talent, and innovation, we aim to position Sri Lanka as a competitive player in the global digital economy. Collaboration with the private sector, academia, and global partners will be key to achieving our vision.”

Adding to the event's significance, Mr. Udesh Seneviratna, the Conference Chair, remarked on the importance of fostering partnerships through NITC 2024. NITC 2024 is a unique opportunity for Sri Lanka to showcase its talent and innovation on a global stage. This conference is not just an event; it’s a platform where collaborations are formed, ideas are shared, and the foundation is laid for transformative projects that will define our future.

As Sri Lanka’s apex ICT professional body, CSSL continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s digital ecosystem. For decades, CSSL has been committed to nurturing ICT talent, advocating for forward-thinking policies, and fostering digital inclusivity.

The NITC 2024 serves as a platform for thought leaders and changemakers to engage in meaningful discussions about the future of technology and its role in society. Over the course of the conference, participants will explore diverse topics ranging from AI ethics and cybersecurity to digital entrepreneurship and smart city innovations.

As the NITC 2024 unfolds, the conversations initiated here aim to inspire action that aligns with the vision of Society 5.0. This includes addressing key challenges such as the digital divide, cyber resilience, and environmental sustainability while leveraging technology to build smarter, more inclusive communities.

The National Information Technology Conference is Sri Lanka’s premier annual ICT event, organized by the Computer Society of Sri Lanka. With a history spanning over four decades, NITC has consistently been at the forefront of promoting digital transformation and knowledge sharing in the ICT sector.

The Computer Society of Sri Lanka (CSSL), which was established in 1976, is the apex body representing Computing professionals in Sri Lanka. The CSSL is a member of the South East Asia Regional Computer Confederation (SEARCC) and the International Federation for Information Processing (IFIP). CSSL is a provisional signatory of the Seoul Accord, the international accreditation agreement for professional computing and information technology academic degrees, between the professional bodies in its signatory countries such as Australia, Canada, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, China, Japan, Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States through which CSSL brings international standards on ICT related degrees to Sri Lanka. CSSL is an accredited professional body by the International Practice Partnership (IP3). CSSL became the first ICT professional body in South East Asia to achieve the world-renowned IP3 Accreditation.

For more information about NITC 2024 (http://www.nitc.lk), visit CSSL’s official website (http://www.cssl.lk) on membership details.