May 11, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka is moving towards establishing a specialised research centre focused on 6G and emerging wireless communication technologies, as part of broader efforts to accelerate the country’s digital transformation agenda.
According to reports, the proposed facility is expected to be launched by the third quarter of 2026 through partnerships involving international technology organisations, academic institutions and private sector stakeholders.
Deputy Minister of Digital Economy Eranga Weeraratne stated that discussions surrounding the initiative are now nearing completion, with authorities optimistic that the centre will become operational within the targeted timeframe.
The planned institution is expected to function as a hub for advanced telecommunications research, bringing together local experts and global industry leaders to collaborate on innovations related to next-generation wireless networks, artificial intelligence-driven connectivity and future digital infrastructure.
Officials believe the project could help position Sri Lanka as a regional participant in emerging communication technologies while also creating opportunities for local engineers, researchers and technology startups to engage with international developments in the sector.
However, Deputy Minister Weeraratne acknowledged that the nationwide introduction of 6G services remains a longer-term objective. He explained that Sri Lanka is still in the process of expanding and strengthening its 5G infrastructure, with telecommunications providers continuing to invest heavily in existing network deployment and coverage improvements.