The Government of Sri Lanka has announced an ambitious plan to transform the nation into a digitally empowered economy, integrating advanced technology and renewable energy to drive sustainable development and economic growth. This initiative aims to position Sri Lanka as a globally competitive nation by leveraging digitalisation and clean energy solutions to create a more inclusive and thriving economy.
Government officials emphasised that this transformation is more than just a technological upgrade—it is a fundamental shift in how Sri Lankans live, work, and interact with technology. The strategy is built on three key pillars: Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), Digital Literacy and Inclusion, and Digital Governance and E-Services.
A robust digital public infrastructure forms the backbone of Sri Lanka’s digital transformation. The Government has pledged substantial investments in high-speed broadband, cloud computing, and data centres to ensure fast, secure, and affordable digital services for all citizens. This move is expected to create a technology-driven economy where businesses and individuals can thrive in an interconnected world.
In addition to infrastructure, the Government is prioritising Digital Literacy and Inclusion to bridge the digital divide between urban and rural areas. Policy incentives and training programs will equip citizens with the skills needed to participate in the digital economy. Deputy Minister of Digital Economy Eranga Weeraratne stressed the importance of making digital opportunities accessible to all Sri Lankans, stating, “By empowering people with digital literacy and essential resources, we enable them to drive economic growth.”
Digital Governance and E-Services form another critical component of this initiative, aimed at modernising public services. The Government will introduce digital platforms to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accessibility in public administration, ensuring seamless interaction between citizens and government services while reducing bureaucracy.
Recognising the vital connection between digitalisation and energy, the Ministry of Power and Energy is collaborating with the Ministry of Digital Economy to develop sustainable energy systems. The focus includes smart grids, renewable energy technologies, and innovative energy storage solutions to meet the demands of smart cities, electric mobility, and digital industries. The Government is also leveraging the Ceylon Electricity Board’s (CEB) infrastructure, such as fibre-optic cables and utility poles, to expand broadband coverage and enhance nationwide digital connectivity.
Under the Digital Economy Master Plan, the Government has set key targets to be achieved by 2030, including:
- Expanding broadband access to underserved rural communities.
- Integrating smart technologies into public infrastructure and services.
- Encouraging private sector investment in digital and energy innovations.
This initiative aligns with Industry 4.0, where digitalisation extends beyond technology to revolutionise industries, governance, and everyday life.
Government officials highlighted that achieving this vision requires collaboration across sectors. The private sector, academia, and citizens must work together to drive innovation and develop an energy infrastructure capable of supporting technological advancements. Minister Weeraratne emphasised the importance of partnerships, stating, “The private sector’s role in developing energy-efficient technologies and smart solutions is crucial. We aspire to build a smart, green economy powered by renewable energy and digital technologies.”
As Sri Lanka embraces this transformative shift, the Government is confident that strategic investments in digitalisation and energy will unlock the nation’s full potential. By integrating these two critical sectors, Sri Lanka aims to become a regional leader in digital transformation, fostering economic growth while prioritising environmental sustainability. This bold vision positions the nation for an innovation-driven future, ready to compete on the global stage.