FITIS launches National ICT Directory

In yet another significant step forward, the Federation of Information Technology Industry Sri Lanka (FITIS), in collaboration with the Information and Communication Technology Agency of Sri Lanka (ICTA), unveiled the landmark National ICT Directory which encompasses many initiatives targeting the overall development and progress of the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) industry. 

The official launch of this national initiative was held at the ICTA auditorium in Colombo recently under the distinguished presence of a considerable number of key industry players, including entrepreneurs and professionals in the ICT sphere.

Expressing his views at the launch of the National ICT Directory, FITIS Chairman Chinthaka Wijewickrama said: “After taking over the mantle as FITIS Chairman two years ago, as the first priority, I mapped out a comprehensive action plan for the ensuing two years. The core objective of this initiative was to streamline the work that FITIS has been handling so far on an annual basis in a bid to push all key segments of activity of the organisation to new heights. Another salient feature of this dedicated program was to launch the National ICT Directory for the greater good and benefit of the entire ICT industry. This was key to steer this strategic sector in the country to a new level by raising the bar.”

FITIS Chairman Chinthaka Wijewickrama speaking at the recent ceremony to mark the landmark launch of the National ICT Directory at the ICTA Auditorium 

“To achieve these twin objectives with more depth and meaning in the current context, it was imperative on our part to maintain a healthy relationship and a close rapport with entrepreneurs and professionals who have diverse shades of opinion, and also key ICT-related organisations, where those in this sphere are actively involved in. It is a reality that the onerous task of developing Sri Lanka’s ICT industry cannot be shouldered by the private sector alone. The support, assistance and guidance of the existing government and relevant state-run institutions are of utmost importance. In this backdrop, we made every endeavour to work with the government and state-owned institutions in the sphere over the past two years. The ideal opportunity has now arisen to overcome the challenges we faced and emerge victorious. This is a historic occasion for Sri Lanka’s ICT industry.”

“It was the dream of all segments in the industry to launch the National ICT Directory. This dream has now come true. On behalf of the ICT sector, I express my gratitude to the Information and Communication Technology Agency of Sri Lanka (ICTA) for helping us to realise this dream. We have now launched the road guide edition and official website of the National ICT Directory. We have already made arrangements to unveil the print edition of this Directory very soon. Finally, I take this opportunity to express my deep gratitude for the valuable contributions made by the committee headed by Ahamed Shaheer and the staff of FITIS to make this project a grand success.”

The ICTA is a partner of the National ICT Directory. Speaking at the launch, ICTA Project Director Arunesh Peter said: “It is a global necessity in the modern world that all ICT organisations stand united and speak with one voice. It is important to provide easy access for the dissemination of business information to the world at large. This process should benefit not only those who disseminate news but also the recipients. The National ICT Directory has achieved both these objectives. It has helped to unite institutions and organisations in the ICT sphere. It has also provided an opportunity for people to access ICT information without any hassle. It is a privilege that FITIS was able to partner with ICTA, the key organisation which represents the government in the ICT industry.”

Expressing his views, Ahamed Shaheer, Head of the Committee on the drafting of the National ICT Directory noted: “Though we used modern, state-of-the-art technology in the field, what we have produced is a simple, uncomplicated National ICT Directory, which is easy to read. Anybody can access the Directory or its special features sans any barriers or complications. The National ICT Directory serves as a useful guide to access information on reputed ICT-related companies, their products and services and IT solutions. Apart from these aspects, it also encompasses a large volume of information including details on local and foreign ICT organisations and institutions. Any Sri Lankan or foreigner can easily access this information. Advertisements on products and services offered by ICT companies can be published in the National ICT Directory at special concessionary rates.”

FITIS launches a series of programs and activities on an annual basis with the core objective of giving an impetus to Sri Lanka’s ICT industry. The INFOTEL Information Technology Exhibition and the Young Computer Scientist Competition are two key initiatives amongst them. Over the past two years, these two programs were conducted successfully, while many new initiatives were also launched.