CSSL leads way: Bold 2030 vision to transform Sri Lanka into digital powerhouse

Seated from left: Dr. Manjusri Wickramasinghe, Udesh I.W. Seneviratna, Heshan Karunaratne, Indika De Zoysa, and Dr. Amal Illesinghe

Standing from left: Chanaki Mallikarachchi, Ruvendra Gunasena, Lakmal Embuldeniya, Dr. Ajantha Atukorale, Rasantha Hettithanthrige, Chethana Kahandugoda and Dr. Nirosha Wedasinghe 

• Heshan Karunaratne elected as the President for 2024/25

The Computer Society of Sri Lanka (CSSL) has unveiled a groundbreaking 2030 strategy, designed to position Sri Lanka as a leading player in the global digital economy. 

Announced at its 36th Annual General Meeting, this vision aligns closely with the principles of Society 5.0, a concept that envisions a human-centric, technology-driven society. By integrating advanced digital technologies into every facet of life, CSSL’s plan aims to drive economic growth, improve quality of life, and support the nation’s broader aspirations of building a $ 15 billion digital economy by 2030 including $ 5 billion exports and 200k workforce. 

At the heart of CSSL’s strategy is the ambition to transform Sri Lanka into a digital powerhouse. This transformation begins with fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, empowering individuals and businesses to harness the potential of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain. By creating a culture of innovation and providing the necessary tools and mentorship, CSSL is equipping Sri Lankans with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. This focus on human capital development not only strengthens the country’s competitive edge but also embodies the core principles of Society 5.0, where people remain at the centre of technological progress. 

Reflecting on this transformative vision, CSSL President Heshan Karunaratne said: “Our goal is to catalyse a progressive future for Sri Lanka by embracing the principles of Society 5.0, ensuring that technological advancements lead to a more inclusive and sustainable society.” This statement encapsulates the organisation’s commitment to leveraging technology as a tool for economic growth and societal development, reinforcing its role as a key driver of Sri Lanka’s digital transformation. 

CSSL’s strategy also emphasises inclusivity, a crucial element in realising the vision of a digital Sri Lanka. In a country where access to technology remains uneven, the plan seeks to bridge the digital divide by expanding high-speed internet access, improving digital literacy, and ensuring that underserved communities can actively participate in the digital economy. These efforts are critical for creating a more inclusive and dynamic digital ecosystem, a key stepping stone to achieving CSSL’s ambitious goals. 

Another crucial aspect of CSSL’s vision is the promotion of sustainability, including fostering a “Clean Sri Lanka” through smart technologies. The CSSL roadmap incorporates the use of digital solutions to support environmental conservation efforts, smart city’s and promote renewable energy adoption. For instance, data-driven platforms can enhance waste collection efficiency, while IoT-enabled systems can optimise energy consumption and reduce carbon emissions. These technologies not only address pressing environmental challenges but also align with Sri Lanka’s commitment to achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs). 

Moreover, the integration of digital platforms to educate and engage the public on sustainability initiatives is a key focus area. Through awareness campaigns and innovative apps, CSSL aims to empower individuals and communities to adopt eco-friendly practices. By leveraging these technologies, Sri Lanka can build a cleaner and greener future, reinforcing its position as a model for sustainable development in the region. 

In line with its transformative agenda, CSSL has also prioritised the integration of disruptive technologies to address societal challenges. From revolutionising healthcare and education to promoting sustainable urban development, the strategy leverages innovation to improve the lives of Sri Lankans while fostering economic growth. This human-centric approach is a hallmark of Society 5.0, reflecting a commitment to using technology not just for profit but for the greater good. CSSL’s roadmap underscores the importance of balancing economic progress with social well-being, ensuring that technological advancements contribute to a more equitable and sustainable society. 

Sri Lanka’s economic challenges underscore the timeliness of CSSL’s vision. As the nation navigates its recovery from recent hardships, digital transformation offers a path to resilience and long-term growth. By embracing the CSSL’s strategy, Sri Lanka can unlock new opportunities for job creation, economic diversification, and foreign investment, positioning itself as a leader in the regional and global digital economy. This strategic alignment with Society 5.0 principles ensures that technological advancements are not only economically viable but also socially inclusive and environmentally sustainable. 

The CSSL’s vision extends beyond the economy to address pressing global and local challenges. The strategy promotes the use of smart technologies to combat climate change, manage energy resources efficiently, and foster sustainable practices across industries. This holistic approach is critical for Sri Lanka, a nation vulnerable to environmental threats. By aligning digital transformation with sustainability goals, CSSL’s roadmap mirrors the essence of Society 5.0 – creating a harmonious balance between nature, technology, and society. 

Collaboration and partnerships form the backbone of CSSL’s 2030 strategy. By uniting government bodies, private enterprises, academia, and civil society, CSSL is building a collaborative ecosystem that accelerates innovation and ensures equitable access to digital opportunities. Such partnerships are essential for addressing complex challenges and driving the nation’s digital transformation. They also enable Sri Lanka to stay competitive in an increasingly interconnected world, fostering a collective vision of progress and prosperity. 

The CSSL’s efforts are not just about technological advancement; they are about reimagining Sri Lanka’s future. By providing a clear and actionable roadmap, CSSL is helping to lay the foundation for a nation that is inclusive, innovative, and resilient. This vision aligns seamlessly with Sri Lanka’s national goals and positions the country as a trailblazer in the global journey toward a digital and sustainable future. In conclusion, CSSL’s bold 2030 strategy, inspired by the transformative ideals of Society 5.0, offers a visionary path for Sri Lanka to become a digital powerhouse. By fostering innovation, championing inclusivity, and leveraging technology for societal good, CSSL is not just transforming the digital landscape but redefining what it means to build a sustainable and equitable future. The emphasis on a “Clean Sri Lanka” underscores the organisation’s commitment to environmental sustainability, ensuring that the nation’s progress is both digital and green. As Sri Lanka embraces this journey, CSSL’s leadership and vision shine as beacons of hope, guiding the nation toward a brighter and more connected tomorrow.

The 2024/25 CSSL Council Members are President: Heshan Karunaratne (SPIL Glass Software), Vice President: Indika De Zoysa (Huawei Technologies Lanka Co. Ltd.), Secretary: Udesh I.W. Seneviratna (Finance Ministry), Treasurer: Dr. Amal Illesinghe, (NSB Retired CIO), Assistant Treasurer: Rasantha Hettithanthrige (Mobitel Ltd.), Assistant Secretary: Dr. Manjusri Wickramasinghe (University of Colombo School of Computing), Publication Secretary: Lakmal Embuldeniya (Henkei Coorporation Academy for Presales), Student Counsellor: Dr. Nirosha Wedasinghe (General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University), Council Members: Dr. Ajantha Atukorale (University of Colombo School of Computing Past Student) , Ruvendra Gunasena (Hemas Holding PLC), Chanaki Mallikarachchi (Digital Economy Ministry Sri Lanka), Chethana Kahandugoda (LB Finance PLC)