May 10, Colombo (LNW): Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya has called for Sri Lanka to take an active role in shaping the direction of artificial intelligence, stressing that the country must establish strong policies and ethical safeguards instead of merely reacting to rapid technological change.
She made the remarks while attending the launch of the AI Policy Framework for State Universities at the University of Colombo Senate Hall on May 08, according to the Prime Minister’s Office.
The initiative has been introduced through a collaboration between the University Grants Commission and the United States Embassy in Sri Lanka, with the aim of establishing national guidelines for the responsible and equitable use of artificial intelligence within the State university sector.
The event drew participation from university administrators, researchers, technology specialists and policymakers, who discussed both the opportunities and challenges posed by AI in higher education. Officials also outlined plans for introducing the framework across universities in the coming months.
Delivering the keynote address, the Prime Minister noted that artificial intelligence is evolving at a pace that often outstrips regulation and public understanding, making effective governance increasingly important. She observed that higher education institutions would be among the sectors most deeply transformed by AI, particularly as universities play a central role in producing knowledge, encouraging critical thinking and preparing future professionals.
She further pointed out that the impact of AI differs across academic disciplines, with areas such as the humanities and social sciences facing complex ethical and intellectual questions as automated technologies become more influential in research and learning environments.
The Prime Minister also warned against allowing technological advancement to widen existing inequalities in education. She said any national AI strategy should prioritise accessibility and inclusion, including support for students with disabilities and efforts to overcome linguistic barriers through digital tools.
Emphasising the importance of broad consultation, she encouraged continuous dialogue between students, lecturers, researchers and policymakers to ensure that the framework remains practical and responsive to the realities of the academic sector.
The programme featured opening remarks by Kapila Seneviratne, Chairman of the University Grants Commission, while K. L. Wasantha Kumara, Vice Chairman of the Commission, presented the proposed roadmap for implementation. AI specialists also delivered presentations highlighting the framework’s core principles and future applications.
The Government believes the initiative marks an important step towards preparing Sri Lanka’s university system for a rapidly changing digital future, while ensuring that innovation is balanced with accountability, social responsibility and long-term national development.
