A one-day conference was successfully concluded titled “Empowering SMEs through Data Security, Cyber ​​Security and Innovation”, organized jointly by the Federation of Information Technology Industry Sri Lanka (FITIS) Professional Chapter which comprise the Information Systems Audit and Control Association of Sri Lanka (ISACA) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) CATALYZE Sri Lanka Private Sector Development (PSD) Activity.

The Federation of Information Technology Industry Sri Lanka (FITIS) www.fitis.lk was set up in 1996 and functions as the apex body of the ICT industry in the country covering all major industry/technology verticals/segments. FITIS comprises of the following Chapters namely, Hardware Chapter, Software Chapter, Education Training Chapter, Communication Chapter, Digital Service Chapter, Professional Chapter, Office Automation Chapter and Professional Consultants Chapter. Member Organizations within the ICT Industry join FITIS based on their organizational focus(es) and contribute towards the super-ordinate strategy of each of the chapters, and each of the chapters in turn are aligned to deliver upon the super-ordinate promise to the ICT industry and Nation at large. FITIS is actively engaged in driving the Digital Agenda here in Sri Lanka via Digitalization and Digital Transformation thereby aiding in the fueling of the Digital Economy in Sri Lanka.

FITIS Professional chapter (ISACA Sri Lanka chapter) focuses on promoting and educating Information Security, Privacy, Governance and Audit in the country. It is part of a global network of more than 200 chapters worldwide. The chapter has been very active in the country and conducts monthly webinars and physical conference to its members and MOU partners on a continuum.

The USAID CATALYZE PSD Activity continues to unlock opportunities for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) in high growth sectors in Sri Lanka which includes Information and Communications Technology. The Activity acts as a catalyst in private sector development by fostering MSME’s capacity, competitiveness, and access to finance.

During Mr. Jayantha Fernando's speech, he discussed the newly enacted Sri Lanka Data Protection Act and its impact on the digital economy. He also addressed other related acts such as the Right to Information Act, Electronic Transactions Act, and Computer Crimes Act. Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of creating awareness about the act, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Mr. Sankalpa Gamwarige delivered a speech on the topic of "Innovation Mindset" wherein he commenced by explicating the distinction between Innovation and Invention. He subsequently delved into various types of innovation, namely Business Innovation, Disruptive Innovation, Social Innovation, Frugal Innovation, and Open Innovation. Towards the conclusion of his speech, he expounded on ten essential components of an innovative mindset, which included Creative Curiosity, Analytical Curiosity, Empathy, Inclusivity, and Collaboration, among others.

Wasantha Weerakoone, COO and Co-founder of Tech One Global, addressed the significance of digital resilience and disaster recovery for SMEs. Mr. Weerakoone emphasized the critical role of digital signature tools in ensuring authenticity and non-repudiation, underlining their importance in safeguarding businesses against unforeseen circumstances.

The Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (SLCERT), National Innovation Agency (NIA), National Enterprise Development Authority (NEDA), Chamber of Small and Medium Enterprise attached to Department of Entrepreneurship (DOE), Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce (FMSC), University of Sri Jayewardenepura all contributed towards the success of this conference.

Mr. Indika De Zoysa - Chairman, Federation of IT Industry Sri Lanka (FITIS)

Mr. Lakmal Embuldeniya - President, Professional Chapter of FITIS

Photo Caption : Mr. Lakmal Embuldeniya - President - Professional Chapter of FITIS , Mrs. Delrene Seneviratne - Deputy Field Team Lead USAID CATALYZE PSD, Mr. Juan Forero - Activity Team Lead USAID CATALYZE PSD , Mr. Indika de Zoysa -  Chairman FITIS,  Mr. Channa De Silva - Vice Chairman FITIS, Mr. Thariq Sanoon - Vice Chairman FITIS, Mr. Dinesh C. A. Sattrukalsinghe – Chief Executive Officer FITIS.