President Assumes Role as Minister of Digital Economy, Outlines Ambitious Plans for Digital Transformation

Colombo, December 6, 2024 – President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, in his new capacity as the Minister of Digital Economy, highlighted the critical role of professionals in driving the country’s digital transformation. Addressing officials of the Ministry of Digital Economic Affairs, President Dissanayake stressed that the support of all professionals is essential for the successful digitization of Sri Lanka, a process that is aligned with both the political leadership’s goals and the expertise of digital technologists.

The President emphasized that digitalization has the potential to revolutionize the economy by enhancing the efficiency of economic activities and driving the nation’s growth. He further pointed out that the government’s key objectives are to eradicate poverty, transform social attitudes, and prioritize digital advancement.

“Development cannot be achieved by just building physical infrastructure,” President Dissanayake remarked, reflecting on the past when a dedicated construction ministry existed, with much of its focus placed on building projects. He noted that today, nearly every ministry engages in construction activities, yet the need for comprehensive education reforms and tackling bureaucratic inefficiencies remained overlooked.

Drawing attention to practical concerns, the President remarked that despite the Ministry of Labor possessing two large buildings, public queues have not been reduced, underlining the importance of digital solutions in addressing such issues.

Looking ahead, the President shared the Ministry’s vision for the digital economy, which includes generating USD 15 billion in revenue over the next five years. Key initiatives will focus on increasing the digital workforce to 200,000 and achieving full digitization of the country within the same timeframe.

The event also saw Engineer Eranga Weeraratne assume duties as the Deputy Minister of Digital Economy. The ceremony was attended by key officials, including Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Secretary to the Ministry of Digital Economy Waruna Sri Dhanapala, and Senior Advisor to the President on Digital Affairs Hans Wijayasuriya, who is also the Chairman of ICTA.

President Dissanayake concluded by reiterating his firm commitment to this vision, promising unwavering support to achieve a digital future that will elevate Sri Lanka’s economy and society.