CSSL member rises to position of Secretary of Technology

The Computer Society of Sri Lanka (CSSL) is bursting with pride today as one of its esteemed members, Dr. Dharmasri Kumaratunge, has been appointed to the prestigious position of Secretary to the Ministry of Technology with effect from 1 January 2024. This momentous occasion marks a significant milestone not only for Dr. Kumaratunge, but also for the entire CSSL community.

Dr. Kumaratunge’s journey with the CSSL has been one of continuous growth and contribution. A longstanding member, he has actively participated in various initiatives, workshops, and conferences, consistently demonstrating a deep understanding of the technological landscape and a passion for its advancement in Sri Lanka.

Dr. Dharmasri Kumaratunge is a consultant on public policy at the Mastercard, Senior National Consultant at the International Trade Centre (ITC) UN, Business Consultant at PayMedia Ltd., and Board Member of DirectPay. Before these positions, he worked as an Assistant Governor at the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL). He has more than 31 years’ experience in the Central Bank and has worked in several departments in different positions, including Economic Research Department, Information Technology Department and Payments and Settlements Department. 

He was the Board Director at LankaClear Ltd., the Board Member of Lanka Financial Services Bureau Ltd., the Board Member of the National Institute of Business Management (NIBM), a member of the Expert Committee on Digital Banking and Blockchain-related industries, and a member of the Steering Committee of the National Transit Card Implementation Project. He also worked as the Country Director of the SAARC Payment Council (SPC) and the Alternate Country Director of Sri Lanka for the Asian Clearing Union (ACU).

Now, as the Secretary to the Ministry of Technology, Dr. Kumaratunge will be at the forefront of shaping Sri Lanka’s technological future. His deep understanding of the IT sector, coupled with their proven leadership skills and unwavering commitment to progress, make him the ideal candidate to steer the Ministry of Technology towards achieving its ambitious goals and making a reality of a digital economy through the DIGIECON 2030 program launched by President Ranil Wickremesinghe and was supported by State Minister of Technology Kanaka Herath.

CSSL President Dr. Ajantha Atukorale expressed his bliss at the news, stating, “We at the CSSL are absolutely thrilled to see Dr. Kumaratunge, a longstanding professional member of the CSSL, appointed as the Secretary to the Ministry of Technology. He is a shining example of the calibre and potential that our society represents. We have no doubt that he will excel in this new role and make a significant contribution to shaping Sri Lanka’s future as a secretary to one of the most important ministries currently.

“The CSSL is confident that under Dr. Kumaratunge’s guidance, the Ministry of Technology will spearhead initiatives that will not only drive economic growth but also empower Sri Lankan citizens through digital inclusion and innovation. We are excited to see the positive impact his leadership will have on the lives of countless individuals and communities across the nation.

The entire CSSL community extends its heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Kumaratunge on this well-deserved achievement. We are confident that he will excel in his new role and bring immense pride to the CSSL and the entire Sri Lankan IT sector. We wish him all the very best in his endeavours!”