ICTA appoints Advisory Committee on AI

The Information and Communication Technology Agency (ICTA) of Sri Lanka has announced the establishment of the AI Advisory Committee, marking a significant milestone in the country’s artificial intelligence (AI) journey. 

The newly formed Committee convened for its inaugural meeting recently and is set to play a crucial role in implementing Sri Lanka’s AI Strategy, aligning it with the broader Digital Economy Strategy.

Established to provide strategic guidance and operational support, the Committee will oversee the formulation and execution of AI policies, reinforcing Sri Lanka’s commitment to a robust and inclusive digital transformation. The Committee’s key responsibilities include aligning AI strategies with government policies, identifying high-impact initiatives to enhance public services, and providing expert advice on regulatory frameworks, infrastructure development, skills enhancement, research and development, and the establishment of AI hubs.

 Additionally, it will focus on promoting ethical AI practices, raising public awareness, and fostering capacity-building efforts.

Dr. Romesh Ranawana serves as the Chairman of the Committee, while Harsha Purasinghe, ICTA Board member, serves as the Convener. 

The team also includes Dr. Harsha Subasinghe, Prof. Asoka Karunananda, Dr. Srinath Perera, Prof. Roshan Ragel, Lakmini Wijesundara, Jayantha Fernando, Dr. Radheeka Jayasundera Abeyweera, Yasith Fernando, Chandika Jayasundra, Sanjini Munaweera, and Yudhanjaya Wijeyratne. 

To further enhance its expertise, the Committee will be supported by specialised sub-committees and an international Expert Group, offering global perspectives on AI policies and best practices.

The Committee’s strategic initiatives are structured around nine key pillars. These include AI infrastructure development to support research and innovation, data-driven strategies for sustainable AI growth, and skills development programs aimed at modernising university curricula and enhancing workforce capabilities in both the public and private sectors. Public awareness campaigns will be launched to educate citizens and guide career opportunities in AI. Additionally, the Committee will spearhead AI research and development, foster a thriving startup ecosystem, encourage private sector adoption of AI technologies, and establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for effective governance. A strong focus will also be placed on building AI-driven solutions tailored to government applications, ensuring adherence to ICTA’s established governance protocols.

The AI Advisory Committee’s work is expected to accelerate the digital transformation, drive economic growth, and position Sri Lanka as a hub for responsible and sustainable AI development.