CSSL announces NITC 2025 from 14 to 16 October

• Flagship event under the theme “Fostering a Human Centric Nation – Towards Society 5.0”

The Computer Society of Sri Lanka (CSSL) has announced the 43rd edition of the National IT Conference (NITC) 2025, the country’s premier gathering for IT professionals, thought leaders, industry pioneers, academia and policy makers and implementers. 

Scheduled to take place from 14 to 16 October, at the Shangri-La Colombo, this year’s conference will be focusing on the concept of “Fostering a Human Centric Nation – Towards Society 5.0”, a transformative vision that integrates advanced digital technologies to fostering a human-centric nation.

The NITC 2025 features a series of activities, including the National IT Conference, CSSL National ICT Awards and the CSSL Digital Investment Summit. The conference tracks encompass a broad array of areas such as FinTech, EduTech, TravelTech, InfoSec, and e-Gov. With over 30 high-profile local and international speakers, attendees could expect a wealth of knowledge and insights from industry leaders and practitioners.

As Sri Lanka navigates the fast-paced evolution of the global digital landscape, the adoption of Society 5.0 principles becomes increasingly relevant. The country’s technology ecosystem has shown remarkable resilience and innovation, particularly in the face of economic and social challenges. NITC 2025 will bring together experts from academia, industry, and government to discuss strategies for leveraging cutting-edge technologies to enhance governance, education, healthcare, financial services, and sustainable development. The event will feature keynote addresses from internationally renowned speakers, and insightful panel discussions designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in the digital era.

A major highlight of NITC 2025 will be its focus on the practical applications of Society 5.0 in various industries. The discussions will delve into how AI-driven automation can enhance productivity across sectors, how IoT can revolutionise smart cities, and how blockchain can drive transparency and security in financial transactions. Additionally, the role of data analytics in policy-making and governance will be a key area of exploration, with experts shedding light on how data-driven decisions can lead to more efficient public services and economic growth.

The rise of Society 5.0 also brings with it new challenges, particularly in terms of cybersecurity, digital ethics, and the future of work. As automation and AI reshape industries, concerns about job displacement and skill gaps continue to grow. NITC 2025 will address these pressing issues by facilitating discussions on workforce transformation, lifelong learning, and the ethical deployment of AI. Industry leaders will share their insights on how organisations can prepare for a future where human-AI collaboration becomes the norm, ensuring that technology empowers rather than displaces the workforce.

CSSL President Heshan Karunaratne emphasised the significance of this year’s theme, stating that Society 5.0 which was introduced by the CSSL to the nation represents the next frontier of digital transformation. He highlighted that Sri Lanka has a unique opportunity to harness emerging technologies to drive inclusive growth, enhance digital literacy, and create a more connected and intelligent society. He further noted that NITC 2025 will not only showcase global best practices but also provide a platform for local innovators to demonstrate their solutions and contribute to the country’s digital evolution.

NITC 2025 Conference Chair Dr. Amal Illesinghe said that the NITC 2025 is expected to attract a diverse audience, including technology professionals, business leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and students. With over 1,200 attendees anticipated, the conference will serve as a melting pot of ideas, fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors to accelerate Sri Lanka’s journey toward a digitally empowered future. The event will include a dedicated space where key sponsors will showcase selected innovations, providing participants with insights into cutting-edge technologies.

As part of its commitment to knowledge sharing and skill development, CSSL will introduce new initiatives at NITC 2025, including mentorship programs and startup showcases. These initiatives aim to nurture the next generation of tech talent and provide a launchpad for emerging entrepreneurs. Additionally, networking sessions will offer attendees valuable opportunities to connect with industry experts, investors, and potential collaborators, opening doors for strategic partnerships and career advancements. 

CSSL Vice President Indika de Zoysa stressed the urgent need for government-industry collaboration to counter the impact of tax hikes on Sri Lanka’s digital sector. “We are actively engaging with the Government for policy changes to secure low-interest bank loans for freelancers, establish world-class IT parks, and reform education to produce a highly skilled workforce,” he stated. CSSL is pushing for stronger incentives to retain digital exports, attract foreign investment, and expand critical infrastructure. “Without decisive action, Sri Lanka risks losing its competitive edge in the global digital economy. We must create a more conducive environment for talent to thrive and stay in Sri Lanka,” he stressed, calling for immediate policy interventions.

CSSL Secretary Udesh I. W. Seneviratna appreciated the continuous National Partnership of the Ministry of Digital Economy, Strategic Partnership of Mastercard, Diamond Partnerships from DMS Software Technologies Ltd., and South Asian Technologies Ltd., Gold Partnerships from Dell Technologies, Fortinet, Aiken Ltd., CommScope Holding Co Inc. and partnership of Informatics Ltd., and Bluechip Technologies Asia Ltd., in making NITC a landmark event. Further, he thanked the support given by FITIS, SLASSCOM, BCS Sri Lanka Section, ISACA Sri Lanka, and OPA.

Seneviratna emphasised the theme “Fostering a Human Centric Nation – Towards Society 5.0” embodies CSSL’s vision of integrating advanced digital technologies to create a more inclusive and connected society and that CSSL is excited to explore how Society 5.0 can enhance governance, education, healthcare, financial services, and sustainable development in Sri Lanka which the Government envisages via its Poverty Alleviation, Digitalisation and Clean Sri Lanka initiatives with policy makers and implementers, academia, IT professionals and local and international resource persons.

Registration for NITC 2025 will open soon, with details available on the WWW.NITC.lk website and official social media channels.