AI powered Big Leap in Tech Innovation in Sri Lanka

Artificial intelligence (AI) is the simulation of natural intelligence on machines, especially computers, to make machines smarter in a wide range of cognitive tasks like humans. AI has been nurtured in the academic and industry landscape in Sri Lanka for more than 25 years. Now, AI is winning recognition as the inevitable technology to boost the country’s technological landscape to drive innovation and economic growth. Sri Lanka Association of Artificial Intelligence (SLAAI), established in 2000, has immensely contributed to promoting AI in the country at the current level through numerous hardships. SLAAI plays a crucial role in inculcating expertise in AI in Sri Lanka by providing platforms for meet-ups and organizing internationally indexed conferences where innovations around the globe can be showcased. 

The Government of Sri Lanka has recognized the potential of AI, incorporating it into its national strategy to enhance digital infrastructure. Initiatives by the Ministry of Technology, Sri Lanka, aim to integrate AI solutions across public sector services, thus improving efficiency and accessibility. Many countries have already shown the power of AI solutions for a wide range of sectors, including healthcare, transportation, agriculture, education, business, finance, and national security. 

Building AI awareness among citizens and strengthening AI education at various levels is imperative for a country’s sustainable AI landscape. This matter ranges from introducing AI education at the school level, AI modules in existing degree programs, AI specialization in existing degree programs, Hons degrees in AI, master’s degrees in AI, and Doctoral programs in AI. It is paramount to strengthen the country’s AI Research and Development ecosystem to participate in the fast-growing field of AI. Due to its very nature, AI cannot be practiced at the technician level. Yet, professional certification is required for AI portioners to respond to ethical, social, technological, accountability, and responsibility concerns in AI.

AI creates ample opportunities for the Sri Lankan software industry to embark on startups to develop AI solutions for local and regional needs of intelligent solutions. Among others, priority may be given to areas like Education, Healthcare, and Agriculture for AI solutions. AI healthcare solutions can reach a wider audience of citizens, requiring advising, consulting a doctor, diagnosing, hospitalization, medical services, and convenient payment plans. This solution exemplifies how AI can respond to social equality in the health sector, encompassing a network of government and private hospitals with heterogeneous healthcare facilities. On the same token, AI solutions can empower agriculture by connecting farmers with various sectors, including farming, fertilizer, disease management, harvesting, and transportation. 

Introducing AI also raises ethical concerns about privacy, security, and inequality. This is a resident in AI solutions based on Machine Learning and deep learning techniques that heavily use data to develop the AI model. Thus, the privacy protection of the data used in such models is critically essential. Discussions among policymakers, scholars, and the tech community must continue, focusing on establishing robust guidelines and ethical standards for AI use. These measures are essential to ensure that AI technologies benefit society without infringing individual rights. 

As Sri Lanka continues to advance its AI capabilities, the nation must also ensure the creation of a balanced ecosystem that supports innovation while addressing potential risks. The right mix of policies, partnerships, and public awareness can position Sri Lanka as a leader in AI innovation in South Asia.

By harnessing the power of AI, Sri Lanka is not merely participating in a global trend but actively shaping its technological destiny. AI’s promise extends beyond transforming industries; it has the potential to enhance the daily lives of every Sri Lankan citizen, making it a significant leap in the nation’s journey towards technological innovation. 

 By Thushari Silva 

Senior Lecturer, University of Moratuwa 

Former President – Sri Lanka Association for Artificial Intelligence