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Sri Lanka President Demands Fast Digital ID Rollout

Sri Lanka President Demands Fast Digital ID Rollout

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake of Sri Lanka wants a quick setup of the national digital identification system. He has given a tight 18-month deadline to complete this project. It is a key part of the digital governance strategy. This strategy aims to change how the nation delivers services and to strengthen the economy.

At the Sri Lanka Banks’ Association meeting, the President talked about the importance of digital projects by the government. These projects fight inefficiency and corruption. They also move the country towards a more clear and efficient economy. The effort to digitize shows President Dissanayake’s commitment, similar to Ranil Wickremesinghe‘s push for reform and innovation in state operations.

Industry experts underline the importance of digital identity in driving growth, cutting down fraud, and making things more efficient. This idea is supported by Dissanayake’s administration. Introducing the digital ID system is expected to push Sri Lanka towards better digital governance. It’s a change that will impact not just technology but also the country’s economic and social systems.

Sri Lanka President Demands Fast Digital ID Rollout

Sri Lanka’s Presidential Push for Swift Digital ID Adoption

Sri Lanka’s President is accelerating the digital ID program amidst a severe economic downturn. This 18-month project aims to improve online government services and boost financial access for all. It’s a key part of reviving Sri Lanka’s economy, with experts hopeful for significant impacts.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s 18-Month Deadline

President Dissanayake has set a bold deadline to revamp digital governance. This effort seeks to upgrade Sri Lanka’s digital infrastructure. It’s seen as vital for enhancing e-government services and shaping government reform.

Streamlining Economic Recovery Through Digital Initiatives

To support these goals, a new biometric system will be put in place. It uses advanced tech for secure identity checks, from fingerprint to eye scans. This step is crucial for stronger and reliable digital governance.

Banking Sector’s Pivotal Role in Supporting Digital ID Rollout

The banking industry in Sri Lanka is set to be a key player. It will link biometric verification with everyday banking, ensuring safe and smooth electronic transactions. This move is expected to broaden financial access significantly.

Initiative Expected Impact Timeline
Digital ID Rollout Enhance security, Increase efficiency in public services 18 months
Biometric Integration in Banking Secure transactions, Greater financial inclusion Ongoing, aligned with digital ID deployment
Technology Adoption in Identity Verification Accurate and fast processing of data Initial phase in first 6 months

Sri Lanka is determined to lead in digital and biometric technology. This comprehensive digital push is aimed at overcoming economic hurdles and setting a regional benchmark.

Enhancing Digital Security and Public Awareness

In an era merging technology and governance, Sri Lanka is boosting its digital presence. It’s focusing on initiatives that increase economic growth and safeguard citizen privacy. For instance, the U.S. Embassy in Colombo and the local tech company WhimsicalWits have launched ‘Cyber Hero.’ This app aims to teach digital safety education and make users wise in their online lives.

Sri Lanka shines at 44th in the Global Services Location Index and is proactive in cybersecurity, ranking 83rd globally. With ‘Cyber Hero,’ part of the PORCH project, it addresses cyber risks and privacy issues. It aligns with the National Digital Policy, preparing for cybersecurity changes and guarding against cyber threats.

Digital literacy is crucial as Sri Lanka expands its digital ID project. U.S. Ambassador Julie Chung and Uthpala Pathirana of WhimsicalWits highlight the importance of global partnerships. They aim to raise Sri Lanka’s digital game. The National Digital Policy for 2020 – 2025 uses benchmarks like the Network Readiness Index to guide these efforts. Sri Lanka is ranked 81st out of 131 countries, pushing towards creating a digitally savvy citizenry.

Sri Lanka is integrating digital technology in public health and beyond, with over 85 major hospitals going digital. Projects like Cyber Hero showcase its dedication to progressing safely in the digital age. Its efforts to enhance healthcare through technology show a commitment to using tech for the public good. This ensures citizens are protected from digital risks.

Hans Wijayasuriya Named Chief Digital Economy Advisor

Hans Wijayasuriya Named Chief Digital Economy Advisor

Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya has been appointed as Sri Lanka’s Chief Advisor to the President on Digital Economy. His 30-year telecom career at Axiata and Telekom Malaysia positions him well for this role. This appointment marks a crucial step towards digital transformation in various sectors.

Axiata's Hans Wijayasuriya Appointed Chief Digital Economy Advisor

In 2024, Dr. Wijayasuriya received the GSMA Chairman’s Award for his mobile industry contributions. His expertise is expected to boost connectivity and economic modernization in Sri Lanka. He will play a key role in shaping the nation’s digital future.

Key Takeaways

  • Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya appointed as Chief Advisor to the President on Digital Economy
  • Over 30 years of experience in the telecommunications industry with Axiata and Telekom Malaysia
  • Received GSMA Chairman’s Award in 2024 for contributions to the global mobile industry
  • Expected to drive digital transformation initiatives and strengthen digital frameworks across sectors
  • Appointment marks a significant step towards a digital economy in Sri Lanka

Veteran Telecommunications Executive Appointed to Key Advisory Role

Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya is now Sri Lanka’s Chief Digital Economy Advisor to the President. His vast experience in digital solutions is expected to boost economic development. This move aims to strengthen the country’s digital frameworks across various sectors.

innovation ecosystem Sri Lanka

Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya’s Extensive Experience in Digital Solutions

Dr. Wijayasuriya brings rich knowledge to his new role. He was CEO of Telecommunications Business at Axiata Group Bhd. His expertise has helped grow digital economies.

His experience spans organizations like the University of Bristol and True Corporation. True Corporation is the most sustainable telecom company globally, according to S&P Global. Dr. Wijayasuriya has also served on various Board Investment Committees.

Expected to Drive Initiatives to Strengthen Digital Frameworks Across Sectors

As Chief Digital Economy Advisor, Dr. Wijayasuriya will lead initiatives to improve Sri Lanka’s digital landscape. He aims to create a thriving innovation ecosystem. His focus will be on strengthening digital frameworks in government services, finance, and healthcare.

Dr. Wijayasuriya will work on building strong public-private partnerships. This will help create a solid digital infrastructure for economic growth. His appointment is a big step towards making Sri Lanka a digital economy leader.

Axiata’s Hans Wijayasuriya Appointed Chief Digital Economy Advisor

Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya is now the Chief Advisor to the President on Digital Economy. The Presidential Media Division made this announcement. He brings over 20 years of experience in digital and telecommunications across Asia.

Transition from Role as CEO of Telecommunications Business and Group Executive Director at Axiata Group Bhd

Dr. Wijayasuriya will leave his role at Axiata Group Bhd in January 2025. He has been with the company for 30 years. Under his leadership, Dialog Axiata became a key player in Sri Lanka’s telecommunications market.

Axiata Group serves over 150 million customers in several countries. These include Malaysia, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia. The group has contributed to Sri Lanka’s digital infrastructure development.

Dr. Wijayasuriya has received recognition for his work in the global mobile industry. In 2024, he won the GSMA Chairman’s Award. He has also served on the GSMA board of directors.

Appointment Announced by Presidential Media Division

The PMD’s announcement shows the government’s focus on digital growth. Dr. Wijayasuriya’s expertise will help strengthen Sri Lanka’s digital frameworks. This move aims to support the country’s economic modernization and growth.

His knowledge in telecommunications and technology will be valuable. The government expects to improve various sectors through digitization. This aligns with Sri Lanka’s efforts in strengthening its digital frameworks.

Mandate to Enhance Connectivity and Support Economic Modernization

Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya will lead Sri Lanka’s digital transformation as ICTA’s Non-Executive Chairman. He’ll oversee the digital transformation framework’s planning and implementation. This aligns with the government’s goal to accelerate the digital economy.

The government aims to improve citizens’ lives through Digital Public Infrastructure. This initiative promotes inclusivity and sustainable growth. Dr. Wijayasuriya’s expertise will modernize education, healthcare, and finance sectors.

His leadership at Dialog Axiata made it a key player in Sri Lanka’s telecommunications market. At Axiata Group, he served over 150 million customers across multiple countries.

Leading the Board of ICTA as Non-Executive Chairman

As ICTA’s Non-Executive Chairman, Dr. Wijayasuriya will guide efforts to enhance connectivity. He’ll support economic modernization through capacity building initiatives. This ensures necessary skills and infrastructure for digital transformation.

Challenges include updating Sri Lanka’s digital infrastructure and addressing cybersecurity concerns. Establishing appropriate regulatory frameworks is also crucial.

Future Executive Leadership Roles in Digital Economy Institutional Framework

Dr. Wijayasuriya will take on executive leadership roles in the digital economy framework. These positions will follow relevant legislative enactment. He’ll contribute to modernizing the economy and improving Sri Lankan citizens’ lives.

His decision to leave Axiata in January 2025 shows commitment to Sri Lanka’s digital agenda. This move will allow him to focus on driving the country’s digital transformation forward.

Digital Banking Framework Boosts Financial Access

Digital Banking Framework Boosts Financial Access

The financial world is changing fast with the rise of Digital Banking. This change is reshaping how we talk and work with banks. The Central Bank of Sri Lanka has stepped up. They launched a big plan for Digital Banking. It aims to make financial services available to more people in the country. This plan started with a new law, the Central Bank of Sri Lanka Act No. 16 of 2023, in September 2023.

Today, about 31% of adults around the globe don’t have bank accounts. But, the rise of tech like mobile money shows a bright future. Sri Lanka is leading the charge in this change. The country’s policies focus on making banking accessible for everyone. With digital tools, Sri Lanka wants to help the 1.7 billion unbanked adults. Many of these people already have a mobile phone, a key tool for growth.

Central Bank Introduces Digital Banking Framework to Enhance Financial Inclusion

The Central Bank is working hard to improve digital tools and create solid banking rules. This is to keep the economy stable. Thanks to these efforts, the Sri Lankan rupee is stronger, and the country’s reserves have grown since March 2023. Another move is making the Sri Lanka Deposit Insurance Scheme stronger with World Bank’s help. This shows a deep commitment to protecting customers and boosting the banking world.

To support this goal, the Central Bank introduced a new Digital Banking Framework. It lays out clear rules and guidelines. This shift has led to easier monetary policies. For example, there were cuts in policy interest rates and limits on rates for some loans in late 2023. In 2023, rates dropped by 650 points, and another 50 points in March 2024. These changes are about making it easier to get credit and grow the economy. They show that digital banking is key to the future of finance.

The Evolution of Banking Toward Digital Financial Inclusion

The Evolution of Banking has changed from Traditional Banking Models to advanced digital platforms. This brings a new era of Digital Financial Inclusion. Around the world, banks are now focusing on User-Friendly Banking Solutions. These solutions improve Customer Experience and Accessibility in Banking. Thanks to technology and policy improvements, we’re moving toward a more inclusive financial world.

The Shift From Traditional to Digital Banking Models

Digital platforms lead today’s banking innovations. Traditional banking, with its limits, is making way for digital banking solutions. This change means banking services are available anytime, improving convenience and availability drastically.

Advent of Mobile and Internet Banking Services

The rise of mobile and internet banking services is a key development. These services use technologies like biometric security and real-time notifications. They make banking more convenient, secure, and trustworthy. Central banks worldwide are supporting digital banking, speeding up its growth and use.

Improved Accessibility and Customer Experience

Digital banking has made services more accessible for everyone. Innovations like peer-to-peer payments and digital wallets have transformed how we bank. Now, even those in remote areas or previously underserved groups have better access, promoting financial inclusion.

Aspect Traditional Banking Digital Banking
Accessibility Limited by location and time 24/7 accessibility, global reach
Customer Experience Standardized services Personalized, user-friendly solutions
Innovation Incremental improvements Rapid, technology-driven changes

This evolution merges technology with finance, showing a move toward more flexible, efficient banking. The path of banking innovation is still unfolding, promising a bright future for financial services.

Central Bank Introduces Digital Banking Framework to Enhance Financial Inclusion

The Central Bank of Sri Lanka is leading the way with Digital Banking Regulations to improve access to financial services. It’s using technology’s power to make finance more available to everyone. A digital banking framework has been rolled out to help more people get banking services.

This framework focuses on bringing new financial products to those without bank accounts or with limited banking access. It aims to create a supportive space for financial tech innovations. This way, every citizen can access banking that’s both safe and affordable.

The FinTech Regulatory Sandbox, launched in 2019, was a big move by the Central Bank. It’s a space where new tech can be safely tried out. This helps companies bring new services to the public faster and with fewer risks.

According to the Central Bank, this initiative aligns with the broader goal of transitioning to a less-cash society, supported by digital solutions that enable efficient financial intermediation and higher levels of financial inclusion.

Central Bank statistics show the positive effects of these moves. For example, adjusting policy interest rates has helped keep the economy stable. Stability is key for the growth of digital finance in the long term.

  1. Facilitation of innovations in financial products and services.
  2. Reduction in transaction costs and improvement in service delivery.
  3. Creation of opportunities for the unbanked to participate in the financial system.

Through its focus on digital banking regulations, the Central Bank is boosting economic growth and making financial inclusion a reality for all in Sri Lanka. These actions highlight how digital advancements can lead to a financial system that’s fair for everyone.

Key Benefits and Features of Digital Banking Solutions

Digital banking changes how people access and use money. It integrates Mobile Banking Empowerment, Innovative Banking Features, and Cost Saving in Banking. These changes much improve how banks work and serve us.

Mobile Banking and User Empowerment

Mobile banking lets people handle their money easily and safely. Its popularity has grown a lot, helping banks reach more people. For example, the State Bank of India’s YONO app got over 26 million users in 18 months. Systems like these make banking available to everyone and give users more control.

Cost Saving and Efficiency for Financial Institutions

Going digital helps banks save a lot. They make more money and spend less by using digital tools. Digital banking also cuts down manual work. This means banks can offer better deals, showing the big benefits of going digital.

Innovative Banking Features Fueling Financial Inclusion

Digital banking is not just for basic banking. It lets people open accounts quickly from anywhere. This is key to helping more people use banking services. Banks use smart tech to make services fit each user better. This makes customers happy and helps banks reach more people.

Digital banking offers many services, from paying bills to getting investment advice. It opens banking to more people, helping the economy grow.

Feature User Impact Efficiency Gain
Mobile Banking Apps Enhanced Accessibility Reduction in Physical Branch Visits
Digital KYC/AML Protocols Instant Account Setup Reduced Operational Hassle
AI-driven Personalization Tailored Financial Advice Improved Customer Retention

Digital Banking Solutions create a new way to manage money. They make financial services available to more people. This helps achieve goals for global development and fairness.

Expanding Financial Access through Digital Infrastructure and Policy

Our world is now digital, and having access to financial services is key to growing the economy. Many countries have invested heavily in improving their digital setups. This is so people everywhere, especially in less developed places, can use these services. Places like China, Egypt, and Mexico have seen big investments, aiming to make banking and payments online easier for everyone.

Creating policies tailored for digital finance is another big step. The Digital ID Working Group pushes for using digital IDs. This helps users interact with financial services safely and smoothly. It opens doors for more people to participate in banking without worry. Guidelines like the Toolkit for Regulatory Authorities show how these steps can make a big difference.

Digital platforms, like M-Pesa in Kenya, show how impactful online banking can be. It has made a big difference in Kenya, where many people use their phones for banking. Such success stories are what OMP Sri Lanka focuses on sharing. They keep an eye on significant trends, including Sri Lanka’s economic crisis. These efforts point out how a stable economy with wide financial inclusion is within reach. All it takes is continuous work on policies and infrastructure.

Sri Lanka Allocates Rs. 465B for Education in 2024

Sri Lanka Allocates Rs. 465B for Education in 2024

Sri Lanka’s government has shown strong support for public school financing. They’ve set aside Rs. 465 billion for education in the 2024 budget. State Minister Suren Raghavan shared this news at a press conference.

This funding aims to tackle long-standing issues in Sri Lanka’s schools. It focuses on better buildings, teacher training, and learning materials. The goal is to help students compete globally.

Minister Raghavan stressed that this budget shows the government’s dedication to education. They want to create a fair and inclusive society. By investing in youth, they hope to shape skilled, knowledgeable citizens.

These future leaders will drive Sri Lanka’s progress in the coming years. The government believes education is key to the nation’s growth and development.

Substantial Investment in Primary and Secondary Education

Sri Lanka’s government has set aside Rs. 255 billion for primary and secondary education in 2024. This investment aims to boost early learning stages. It ensures students receive top-notch education from the start of their academic journey.

Initiatives to Enhance Quality and Accessibility of Education

The government has planned several initiatives to improve education quality and access. These include:

  • Infrastructure development projects to improve school facilities and learning environments
  • Implementation of student aid programs to support underprivileged students and promote equal access to education
  • Teacher training programs to enhance the skills and competencies of educators in primary and secondary schools

These plans aim to close the gap between urban and rural areas. They ensure all students can access quality education, regardless of background.

The government’s focus is on creating an inclusive education system. This approach fosters growth and development for every child in Sri Lanka.

Significant Funding for Higher Education and Research

Sri Lanka’s government has allocated Rs. 210 billion for research funding and development in 2024. This investment aims to improve advanced learning, boost innovation, and enhance skill training in universities. The funding will strengthen higher education institutions across the country.

Rs. 210 Billion Earmarked for Advanced Learning

The allocated funds will upgrade infrastructure and facilities in universities. State-of-the-art resources will be provided to students and faculty. The government plans to appoint Deputy Vice Chancellors alongside existing Vice Chancellors in all universities.

This move will streamline administrative processes and ensure efficient resource management. Discussions are underway to increase university lecturers’ salaries, recognizing their crucial role in education.

Plans to Foster Innovation and Skill Development

Sri Lanka aims to establish a national higher education commission. This body will consolidate administrative functions and improve coordination among institutions. Starting 2025, the government will offer direct scholarships to state university graduates.

These scholarships will encourage advanced studies and contribute to national growth. The government has invited foreign and Sri Lankan-origin professors with international experience. They will teach and conduct research in state universities, promoting global perspectives.

FAQ

How much has the Sri Lankan government allocated for education in the 2024 budget?

Sri Lanka’s 2024 budget allocates Rs. 465 billion for education. This substantial investment shows the government’s dedication to improving education quality and access.

What is the focus of the primary and secondary education budget allocation?

The budget designates Rs. 255 billion for primary and secondary education. This funding aims to enhance learning quality and accessibility at these crucial stages.

Key initiatives include infrastructure development and student aid programs. These efforts will strengthen the foundation of Sri Lanka’s education system.

How much has been earmarked for higher education in the 2024 budget?

The government has set aside Rs. 210 billion for higher education. This investment supports advanced learning and research in Sri Lankan institutions.

Plans are in place to boost innovation and skill development. These initiatives will prepare students for future challenges and opportunities.

What administrative changes are being made in universities?

Universities will appoint Deputy Vice Chancellors alongside existing Vice Chancellors. This change aims to improve administrative efficiency in higher education institutions.

Are there any initiatives to attract foreign and Sri Lankan-origin professors to state universities?

Yes, the government is inviting foreign and Sri Lankan-origin professors with overseas experience. They will teach and conduct research in state universities as part of an internationalization project.

Is the government considering increasing salaries for university lecturers?

The government is discussing salary increases for university lecturers. This recognizes their vital role in providing high-quality higher education to students.

Government Launches National Digital Transformation Roadmap

Government Launches National Digital Transformation Roadmap

The Sri Lankan Government has launched a big plan for the future. They call it the National Digital Transformation Initiative. This plan is a detailed blueprint aimed at making Sri Lanka’s economy more digital by 2030. It highlights the importance of Digital Strategy Development for sustainable growth. It guides Sri Lanka into a new era of digital innovation and transformation.

The main goal is to create a National Digital Infrastructure Plan. It’s about making digital access fairer and improving public services quickly. The plan includes several stages over five years, linking well with the country’s overall development plans. It looks at how digital technology can change public services, like education, for the better. This makes governance smarter, more connected, and efficient.

The strategy draws inspiration from Uganda’s Digital Uganda Vision 2040. It has high aims, like boosting the contribution of ICT to the GDP. The plan fosters a place where digital skills, innovation, and creating businesses are key. This fits well with the world moving more towards a digital era, with blockchain and AI changing how things are done in government and education.

Key points of this plan include teaching people more about digital technology, improving online safety, protecting data, and providing better internet access. It was made by six groups working together, each focusing on different parts of putting the plan into action. The result is a broad plan to change Sri Lanka’s digital base into something stronger, more open, and forward-thinking.

Government Launches National Digital Transformation Roadmap

OMP Sri Lanka ensures people know about important plans like the National Digital Transformation Roadmap. This plan marks a big step towards closing the digital gap between city and country areas. It prepares young people for the future and uses ICT to improve society and the economy. The plan also strongly focuses on making the country more able to deal with challenges, like the recent school closures due to floods. It highlights the need for better national defenses against natural disasters.

Exploring Sri Lanka’s 2030 Vision for Digital Transformation

Sri Lanka is on a journey towards digital progress with the National Digital Transformation Roadmap. This roadmap focuses on upgrading technology and government systems. It also aims to boost Economic Growth and make digital tools available across public services.

The National Digital Transformation Roadmap is key for Sri Lanka’s growth. It uses Digital Innovation in Public Sector to make the country competitive globally. The plan includes improving infrastructure and digital skills. It will also bring in new Digital Financial Services for more development.

The Influence of the National Digital Transformation Roadmap on the Economy

With this roadmap, Sri Lanka plans to upgrade its digital set-up. Key projects, like the City of Dreams, will help grow the economy by pulling in investors and tourists. Global rankings, like the Network Readiness Index, show that better digital systems can lift a country’s economy. This suggests Sri Lanka’s plans are on the right track.

Core Principles and Strategic Focus Areas of the Digital Roadmap

The roadmap stands on principles like inclusivity and sustainability. It aims to improve digital government services and cybersecurity. By launching Public Sector Innovation projects, it will upgrade technology in many areas.

Aligning Digital Initiatives with Sustainable Development Goals

The roadmap also supports eco-friendly tech and tries to bring digital tools to more people. It includes steps to update farming with tech, as shown by digital agritech projects.

This broad strategy not only lifts Sri Lanka’s economy. It also matches global goals for a sustainable future. That’s why Sri Lanka’s digital changes are crucial for its development.

Indicator 2020 Ranking 2022 Ranking
ITU Global Cybersecurity Index 83 out of 194 Improving Measures
UN E-Government Development Index 85 out of 193 95 out of 193
Network Readiness Index 83 out of 134 81 out of 131

Sri Lanka’s 2030 Vision for Digital Transformation seeks a balance in using digital tech for development. This roadmap clearly outlines how to modernize the public sector and promote economic and tech growth.

Driving Innovation and Inclusivity Through Digital Strategy Development

Sri Lanka focuses on creating an Inclusive Digital Economy and boosting Digital Literacy. The goal is to Bridge the Digital Divide nationwide. Making high-speed broadband available to everyone at affordable rates is key. This move aims for speeds over 100 Mbps. This will allow all government services to go online. This means citizens and businesses can easily do transactions online. With a smart approach to budget management, Sri Lanka is modernizing its economy and addressing its money challenges.

Fostering Digital Literacy and Bridging the Digital Divide

The government is improving technology to gain people’s trust in digital services. It is also focused on eco-friendly projects. This is to make digital systems more sustainable. Sri Lanka is making great progress in Digital Transformation. It’s improving access and use of digital tech. These changes will open new doors for everyone, supporting Sri Lanka’s digital infrastructure goals.

Utilizing Emerging Technologies for Economic Growth

The world’s economy is quickly changing, with digital platforms leading the way. Sri Lanka knows it needs to use Emerging Technologies for Economic Growth. The country is updating laws and policies to support digital developments. This will help Sri Lanka become a leader in digital policies and governance by 2025.

Public-Private Partnerships in National Digital Infrastructure

Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) are crucial for Sri Lanka’s digital plans. These partnerships help overcome resource challenges. They make it easier for private investors to fund digital projects. Together, the government, schools, and businesses are expanding digital access to countryside areas. With help from groups like the World Bank and Asian Development Bank, Sri Lanka is growing. It aims to become a key business area in South Asia, focusing on strong health strategies and sustainability.