State Minister of Technology, Kanaka Herath, announced the introduction of the DIGIECON 2030 program, aimed at accelerating Sri Lanka’s economy towards an inclusive digital ecosystem through the utilization of advanced technology-based solutions. The program includes a comprehensive digital master plan, a regulatory policy framework, and a series of annual events that will demonstrate the government’s commitment to fostering a thriving digital economy.

During a press conference themed ‘Collective Path to a Stable Country’ held at the Presidential Media Centre (PMC), Minister Herath outlined the key components of DIGIECON 2030. The first milestone, ‘DIGIECON 2023,’ is scheduled to take place from October to November 2023. This event will unveil the digital master plan and regulatory policy framework for the country,

covering the period up to 2030. Additionally, a series of international conferences, symposiums, and exhibitions will be held to accelerate digital transformation and fuel the vision of a ‘Digital Economy 2030.’

Furthermore, Minister Herath disclosed that the procurement process for the Indo-Sri Lanka Joint Project for the Sri Lanka Unique Digital Identity Project (SL-UDI) has begun. The project, initiated through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Sri Lanka and India in March 2022, aims to establish a unique digital identity for every citizen in the country. The Government of India is supporting the software development for SL-UDI, contributing 300 million Indian Rupees towards the project. The Information and Communication Technology Agency of Sri Lanka (ICTA) will oversee the installation of major automated biometric and software systems, in consultation with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Lanka.

Additionally, the Ministry of Technology, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, plans to launch a six-month IT course specifically designed for Arts undergraduates who wish to enhance their IT skills. The curriculum will be developed with input from subject-matter specialists to bridge the gap in the IT field.

The implementation of the SL-UDI project is expected to facilitate more efficient delivery of government services, reduce poverty, improve financial inclusion, and minimize corruption. With the DIGIECON 2030 program and the SL-UDI project, Sri Lanka is taking significant strides towards becoming a digitally advanced nation that benefits all its citizens.