Monday Nov 25, 2024
Monday Nov 25, 2024
Thursday, 25 March 2021 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
Ministry of Technology Secretary Jayantha De Silva has stated that all the preliminary work for the establishment of techno parks, a major development project proposed to implement the Government’s policy of building a technology-centric economy, has been completed. The creation of five new technology parks in the country has been identified as a major step in this direction. There are already four cities identified for this; Galle, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and Kurunegala.
The aim is to create an economy driven by technology entrepreneurs to increase export and foreign earnings from the technology sector and to open up knowledge and professional services to the national economy. These views were expressed at a meeting held to educate technology entrepreneurs, professionals, service providers and relevant officials and to seek their views and suggestions.
The program encourages access to technology-focused investments, businesses, entrepreneurship and related service industries. This will create new employment opportunities for the youth which will generate high income. The technology parks will be designed take into account the socio-economic and geographical features and will work to meet the needs of the country by encouraging businesses that are adapted to each environment.
A techno park is a one-stop-shop that supports and facilitates technology-based initiatives in the private sector. It is a methodology that maintains close interactions with various businesses in the public sector and nurtures research for their growth.
These proposed techno parks will include incubator facilities for setting up startups, programs and collaborative activities, uninterrupted power supply, telecommunication centres, administrative management offices, banking facilities, conference centres, recreational facilities, parking and internal transportation, etc. It also focuses on creating an environment that is closely tied up with nature of the respective areas and eco-friendliness is considered as a fundamental basis when building the techno parks. The proposed technology parks will be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including entertainment, which is essential for the balance of a busy life.
ICTA Chairman Prof. Lalith Gamage stated, “In building a technology-based economy, the ICT Agency has a clear policy that identifies all the requirements, including the digital development strategies, the lows, policies and the digital infrastructure, action. It encouraging foreign companies to startup their businesses in Sri Lanka in a mutually beneficial manner will help these technology gardens attract foreign direct investment. Techno parks create an environment that supports regional development through digital transformation and innovation.
Ministry of Technology Additional Secretary A.K.R. Alawatta, Telecommunications Regulatory Commission Director General Oshada Senanayake, Information and Communication Technology Agency CEO Mahinda B. Herath, Chief Digital Economic Officer Anura De Alwis and others were among the distinguished guests to tack part in the discussion forum.
