Colombo (LNW): The Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector in Sri Lanka is grappling with a significant shortage of skilled professionals, many of whom have emigrated, a senior official disclosed with media.
The island nation’s strategic goal under the Digiecon-2030 plan is to enhance the digital economy, aiming for it to contribute a minimum of US $15 billion to the national economy by 2030.
This comprehensive strategy includes initiatives such as digital nomad visas, the introduction of e-payments across government entities, and streamlined approval processes.
As per the projections of Digiecon-2030, the country’s ICT workforce should number around 175,000 in the current year and increase to 300,000 by 2025.
“Presently, our workforce stands at just 75,000. While we’re progressing towards Digiecon-2030’s objectives, the continuous outflow of talent remains a pressing issue,” Prasad Samarawickrema, Project Director of Digiecon-2030, told EconomyNext.
The Digiecon-2030 strategy envisions propelling Sri Lanka’s economy into a comprehensive digital era by harnessing innovative, tech-driven solutions.
A large portion of ICT professionals depart the nation after only a year’s experience, predominantly migrating to European nations, Samarawickrama pointed out.
“We currently have a shortfall of 50,000 ICT professionals. To realise our goals, we’re in dire need of start-ups and technical experts,” he said.
Samarawickrema emphasised the necessity to overhaul the educational curriculum, integrating updated ICT subjects in schools and revamping vocational training programs to yield competent ICT professionals, stating “The academic curriculum might take up to seven years to modify, while vocational training could take over a year. By then, newer technologies could emerge, rendering the curriculum obsolete”.
He pressed on the need for a bespoke revision in the ICT-focused educational system, mentioning, “Many of the local ICT graduates don’t meet the industry’s employment standards.”
Following a severe economic downturn, which led to a declaration of bankruptcy and sovereign debt default last April, Sri Lanka witnessed a mass exodus of its ICT professionals.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who also oversees the Technology Ministry, has been ardently advocating for the digitisation of the economy, aiming to curb corruption and expedite economic revival.
However, there has been resistance to this digital transformation from many public sector workers in the past.
Colombo (LNW): The Supreme Court today ruled that the removal of Environment Minister Naseer Ahamed from the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) is lawful and valid.
This was when the case was taken up before the Supreme Court Bench comprised of Justices Preethi Padman Surasena and Mahinda Samayawardhena today (06).
Earlier in April 2022, the SLMC made the decision to oust Naseer Ahamed following his induction as the Minister of Environment in the preceding government.
Subsequent to Ahamed’s ministerial appointment, he voted in favour of the controversial 20th Amendment to the Constitution adapted by the Gotabaya Rajapaksa Administration in 2020 and voted in support of the 2022 Budget, violating the SLMC’s stances on such scenarios.
Having campaigned and achieved electoral victory in the Batticaloa District under the SLMC banner, Ahmed became a MP, and yet, following today’s ruling by the Supreme Court, the fate of his Parliamentary seat remains uncertain.
Colombo (LNW): Persistent heavy rainfall has resulted in flooding, mudslides, and fallen trees throughout Sri Lanka, leading to the deaths of at least six individuals, reports claimed.
As a result of the adverse weather, officials have shut down schools in affected regions. The country has been enduring the impact of intense monsoon showers for over a week, causing the inundation of homes, agricultural fields, and thoroughfares.
On a tragic note, a massive tree collapsed onto a bus in motion within Colombo, resulting in five fatalities and injuring an additional five people, reported Dr. Rukshan Bellana, the representative for the primary hospital in the capital.
In another incident, the state-affiliated Disaster Management Centre disclosed that a man lost his life in the Galle district – located approximately 130 kilometres to the south of Colombo – when a boulder struck his residence amidst a mudslide.
According to the centre, these calamities have wreaked havoc on hundreds of residences across 12 districts, affecting over 50,000 residents. Among them, about 1,473 families have been relocated to provisional housing for their safety.
Matara, a coastal district, has borne the brunt of the devastation, with extensive areas submerged for an extended period.
Consequently, educational institutions in Matara remained shut on Friday, taking into consideration the ongoing flooding and potential landslide risks.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe has issued direct instructions to government officials, including the Matara District Secretary, to assess the urgent needs of the flood-affected people in the Matara District, resulting from heavy rainfall. The President has emphasized the necessity of swiftly implementing relief measures.
The President’s directives also encompass the provision of vital facilities such as cooked meals and medication to those affected, along with the engagement of the armed forces to ensure the efficient delivery of aid.
Additionally, the President has alerted relevant agencies to formulate contingency plans for the safety and well-being of the populace in the event of worsening flood situations.
In the interim, President Ranil Wickremesinghe has issued directives to relevant government departments to remain vigilant regarding potential disaster situations that may arise in other districts due to adverse weather conditions.
A total of 9,448 individuals from 2,350 families across 16 Divisional Secretariat Divisions in the Matara district have been impacted by various calamities including floods, strong winds, landslides, heavy rains, rock falls and tree falls. Among these, 399 houses have sustained partial damage, with 37 other properties affected.
Community food processing centres have been established in Malambada, Akurassa, Kamburupitiya and Thihagoda to provide meals for those in need.
Currently, 6,967 families comprising 25,553 individuals are stranded due to the floods and the army is actively engaged in providing them with cooked food.
Simultaneously, the Sri Lankan Army has initiated a specialized relief program for the residents of the Malimbada Divisional Secretariat Division within the Matara District, which has been severely affected by the flooding.
Under the leadership of Major General Janaka Ranasinghe, Commander of the 61st Infantry Division, and Colonel Roshan Kannangara, Commander of the Matara Area, two army battalions have been actively engaged in relief efforts.
A total of 6 dinghies and 3 motor boats have been deployed to provide assistance to affected individuals, while special military vehicles are on standby for potential emergency rescue operations.
For reporting emergency situations and related information in the Matara district, individuals are urged to contact Major General Janaka Ranasinghe at 0766907042 and Colonel Roshan Kannangara at 0766907146.
Concurrently, a high-level discussion addressing the state of emergency in the Matara district and outlining forthcoming relief measures was convened yesterday (04) at the Matara District Secretariat following President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s directives. The meeting presided over by Minister of Power and Energy, Mr. Kanchana Wijesekera and included the participation of Southern Province Governor Willy Gamage, Member of Parliament Karuna Kodithuvakku, District Secretary Y. Wickramasiri, the Governor’s Secretary, Additional District Secretaries, all Divisional Secretaries of the Matara District and representatives from law enforcement, the armed forces and various government departments.
The discussion extensively covered immediate relief measures for affected individuals and strategies for the post-flood recovery process.
It was agreed that daily disaster management meetings would be held, uniting Divisional Secretariats and Pradeshiya Sabhas to coordinate efforts. Additionally, decisions taken during these meetings will be conveyed to the District Disaster Committees through Zoom technology on a daily basis.
Here below is the statement made by National Movement for Social Justice (NMSJ) on the The Online Safety Bill (OSB).
The Online Safety Bill (OSB), which can be a barrier to freedom of expression, should be withdrawn immediately.
We, as the National Movement for Social Justice (NMSJ) demand the immediate withdrawal of the proposed OSB, which the Government is preparing to enforce with the aim of enacting laws that can be used to prevent the people from exercising their right to express ideas.
The much-disputed OSB creates legal provisions that can have a devastating effect on the right to speech and expression, a fundamental right guaranteed by the Constitution. It is also extremely serious that a committee which is proposed to be appointed by the Executive President under it may tamper with the judicial power, contrary to the principles of natural justice. This Bill contains a number of provisions that will cause the digital economy that is already growing rapidly day by day, and would be of great benefit for the country.
We also believe that there should be legal provisions to prevent situations that may be a threat to national security, and cause damage to individuals through the use of online platforms, and to prevent crimes that could be committed by misusing social media. There should be provisions to initiate legal action against those who commit such offences. Therefore, we very earnestly and responsibly request the responsible authorities to amend the relevant provisions in the Penal Code and other related ordinances in a timely manner. But, we are deeply concerned and surprised by attempts to suppress democratic rights under the guise of such interests, and we will oppose such attempts without any second thought.
We again request the Government to immediately withdraw the OSB, which can be a deadly attack on the freedom of expression. Instead of proposing such draconian pieces of legislation, steps should be taken to amend the relevant laws including the Penal Code in such a way that legal action can be taken against criminals who misuse social media platforms, and commit acts harmful to the well-being of the citizens.
Sunil Jayasekara General Secretary National Movement for Social Justice
Despite economic challenges and global competition, President Ranil Wickremesinghe, addressing the General Convocation of Sir John Kotelawala Defence University encouraged graduates to contribute to Sri Lanka’s growth.
The President Wickremesinghe emphasized the need for competitiveness and highlighted the significance of a highly educated and skilled labour force. He encouraged graduates to pursue advancements in technology, agriculture and various sectors critical to the nation’s growth.
The President expressed the importance of education and the government’s plans to establish additional universities focused on cutting-edge technology, especially modern technology and knowledge such as Artificial Intelligence (AI).
To build upon this foundation, the approach to education and skills development should be comprehensive, encompassing vocational training, technical education, and the strengthening of technical colleges. The aspiration for the National College of Technology, aligning with the Kotelawala Defence University model, signifies a strategic step toward achieving educational goals.
Highlighting the need to harness human resources and convert vocational training centres into university colleges, the President envisioned a Sri Lanka with skilled citizens, open to the world for a competitive economy through the integration of Artificial Intelligence and modern technology. He concluded with optimism about Sri Lanka’s on-going economic recovery and its potential for further strengthening.
President Wickremesinghe urged graduates to carefully consider their roles in advancing the country’s future, emphasizing the need for determination, strategic thinking, and a commitment to overcome challenges existed but also opportunities for those committed to building a competitive economic transformation and prosperous Sri Lanka.
As the graduates embark on their futures, President Wickremesinghe further emphasized the critical decisions they now face. With some entering the Armed Forces as recruiting officers and others representing civilian sectors, the choice between staying or leaving the country in pursuit of opportunities becomes paramount.
Highlighting the current economic challenges, the President encouraged graduates to reflect on their choices—whether to stay and contribute to Sri Lanka or explore opportunities abroad. He urged them to envision a better Sri Lanka and contribute to its growth, leaving the final decision in the hands of the graduates.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe addressing the recent graduates at the General Convocation of Sir John Kotelawala Defence University which held at Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) yesterday (04), acknowledged the institution’s unexpected growth and success. He commended the graduates who have played significant roles, especially during the war, showcasing their courage and determination.
He acknowledged the difficulties faced by the nation in recent years and the uncertain circumstances, prompting many to contemplate their futures. The President affirmed that Sri Lanka is on the path to stability and economic recovery, although the journey may not be easy. The President addressed the need to balance revenue generation with inflation control, indicating that 2024 marked the year for restarting economic growth.
The President commended the institution’s remarkable journey from its humble beginnings. He acknowledged the unforeseen role its graduates played in the nation’s victory over adversity. Reflecting on the growth of the university, the President expressed awe at its transformation into an academic institution welcoming both military personnel and civilians.
The President also underlined the unpredictability of global events over the next few years, including potential economic challenges for developed nations said “In the current economic climate, it appears that the situation in the UK is challenging, and similar sentiments are being expressed about the economies of Canada and Europe. It’s important to acknowledge that many developed economies are facing difficulties. When considering your future in this economy, it’s crucial to recognize that it poses a challenge. However, the decision ultimately rests with you. If you choose to continue your career here, be prepared to take on the responsibility of contributing to the country’s development and making it a better place than it is today. In conclusion, I encourage you all to reflect on your choices carefully. While I offer my perspective, the decision is ultimately yours to make”.
The ceremony, attended by key officials including Minister of State for Defence Premitha Bandara Tennakoon, Senior Advisor to the President on National Security and Chief of Staff to the President Sagala Ratnayaka, Secretary to the Ministry of Defence General Kamal Gunaratne (Rtrd) Chief of Staff of the Triforces General Shavendra Silva, Army Commander Lt. Gen. Vikum Liyanage, Navy Commander Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera, Air Force Commander Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa and other officials.
Today, on October 6, the Sri Lankan Rupee maintains its stability against the US Dollar at various commercial banks in Sri Lanka, similar to the rates observed on Thursday.
At Peoples Bank, the buying and selling rates for the US Dollar remain consistent, standing at Rs. 316.18 for buying and Rs. 329.37 for selling.
Commercial Bank also reports no changes, with the buying rate for the US Dollar remaining at Rs. 317.68 and the selling rate staying steady at Rs. 328.
Similarly, at Sampath Bank, there are no fluctuations in the exchange rates for the US Dollar. The buying rate remains at Rs. 318, while the selling rate remains at Rs. 328.
This stability in the exchange rates suggests a level of consistency in the currency market for the Sri Lankan Rupee against the US Dollar on this particular day.
The proceedings in Parliament were brought to a standstill as members of the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) staged a protest concerning a pressing matter related to pasture land in Batticaloa.
The issue at hand was initially brought to light in September by Batticaloa District MP Shanakiyan Rasamanickam. He raised concerns about the protest organized by dairy farmers from Mayilathamadu, shedding light on the illegal settlements encroaching upon the area.
MP Rasamanickam emphatically pointed out that these farmers had been vigorously protesting against the alleged illegal occupation of grazing lands they’ve utilized for over six decades. Furthermore, there were alarming reports of settlers unlawfully seizing these lands, leading to the distressing incidents of cattle killings and land fires.
In an effort to address this dire situation, several TNA Parliamentarians, including MP Rasamanickam, convened in Parliament today to call upon state authorities to intervene promptly and prevent further destruction of both cattle and land in Mayilathamadu.
The protest by the TNA MPs escalated in intensity due to the government’s unresponsiveness, partly attributed to the absence of the subject minister during the day’s proceedings.
Opposition MP Dr. Harsha de Silva reported that a heated argument ensued between ruling party MPs, including MP Pillayan, and MP Shanakiyan Rasamanickam during the protest, underscoring the gravity of the matter.
Ultimately, the protest concluded when Leader of the House MP Susil Premajayantha provided assurance that the issue would be brought to the attention of the Minister of Irrigation for immediate action.
Colombo (LNW): USAID, in collaboration with SLSEA through its Sri Lanka Energy Program, introduced the National Energy Benchmarking Portal (NEBP).
This innovative platform is designed to assist businesses in curbing electricity consumption by promoting efficient practices and conservation methods, thereby addressing the challenges posed by escalating energy costs.
The launch of NEBP marks a significant step toward a more sustainable and energy-efficient future for businesses in Sri Lanka.
The National Energy Benchmarking Portal (NEBP) is the result of two years of collaboration between USAID, SLSEA and select private organizations.
The portal is a digital solution to disseminate energy consumption data and will be managed by SLSEA as a central repository for energy consumption data from all industrial, commercial, and Government facilities in Sri Lanka, starting with supermarkets and the financial sector.
Organizations can submit their energy consumption and other data required for benchmarking through the portal, which contains data from a company’s own facilities and allows a company to compare its performance against the SLSEA benchmarks.
The portal will improve the efficiency and accuracy of data entry and analysis for nearly one million consumer accounts, allowing for the identification and comparison of consumption patterns in real time.
USAID/Sri Lanka Director of Economic Growth Christopher Powers called the new portal a critical tool to support energy efficiency initiatives.
“USAID, through the Sri Lanka Energy Program, aims to introduce clean energy and reduce excess energy use across Sri Lanka. This portal is a critical tool that will support USAID investments to power an energy sector that is secure, efficient and sustainable,” he said.
“We initiated a mandatory energy efficiency and conservation (EE&C) program many years after voluntary programs failed to impress the majority of Sri Lankan enterprises,” said SLSEA Chairman Ranjith Sepala.
He said “Due to their low-cost energy supply, businesses rarely make energy efficiency and conservation investments despite their financial appeal.
“ Now, with realistic energy prices, is the ideal time to engage businesses in EE&C, and we appreciate USAID’s assistance in digitising our process, he added.”
