Sri Lanka’s digital and social development drive is set for a major boost following the renewal of the strategic partnership between Dialog Axiata PLC and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The strengthened collaboration aims to unlock long-term socio-economic benefits by accelerating digital inclusion, empowering vulnerable communities, and supporting national development priorities at a time when the country is rebuilding from prolonged economic challenges.
Under the renewed agreement, Dialog and JICA will expand support across critical sectors including digital transformation, financial inclusion, education, gender equality, agriculture, and disaster risk reduction. These areas have become increasingly vital as Sri Lanka prioritises digital governance, rural connectivity, and climate resilience in its recovery strategy.
A key feature of the partnership is its focus on delivering scalable technology-driven solutions, such as expanding digital financial services to underserved groups, digitising agricultural value chains, and improving access to online learning platforms for students in remote regions. With more Sri Lankans moving toward cashless transactions and e-government portals, enhanced digital infrastructure supported through this partnership is expected to reduce costs, increase efficiency, and widen economic opportunities particularly for low-income households.
Since 2023, JICA has also played a central role in strengthening Dialog’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, supporting programs that promote equal opportunities and digital literacy among women and youth. The renewed collaboration will take these efforts further by expanding women-led entrepreneurship programs, improving access to digital tools, and encouraging technology-based employment in rural areas. These initiatives are expected to bolster participation in the labour force, especially among women affected by economic hardship.
Looking forward, the partnership will also widen efforts in renewable energy, including rural solar power solutions and energy-efficient digital infrastructure reducing national energy expenditure and supporting Sri Lanka’s commitment to a greener economy. The two organisations will additionally work together on projects aimed at combating gender-based violence through awareness campaigns and technology-enabled reporting mechanisms, contributing to a safer and more equitable society.
Commenting on the partnership, JICA Sri Lanka Office Chief Representative Kenji Kuronuma said the collaboration blends JICA’s global development experience with Dialog’s technological strength to “deliver scalable, people-focused solutions” to Sri Lanka’s most urgent socio-economic challenges. Dialog Axiata Group CEO Supun Weerasinghe highlighted that the renewed partnership reinforces a shared mission to “strengthen essential services, expand opportunities, and improve everyday lives” nationwide.With this expanded partnership, Dialog and JICA signal a long-term commitment to driving inclusive growth, poverty alleviation, and national resilience positioning digital innovation as a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s future development
