The target set by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe to achieve a revenue of US$ 5 billion through the Information Technology sector is a workable target, Information Communication Technology Agency of Sri Lanka (ICTA) Acting CEO, Dr. Ajith Madurapperuma told guests at the launch of ICTA ‘e-Swabhimani Awards 2017’ last week.
He said the target set for 2020 is an achievable goal, given the growth in digital telecommunication which encompasses a wide spectrum of digital infrastructure facilities that has touched all aspects of life.
“The ICT sector is going through rapid changes, creating an impact on society to bring about an inclusive society, which is ICTA’s aim,” Dr. Madurapperuma said.
ICTA is supporting the initiative with agencies such as Sri Lanka Association for Software Services Companies (SLASCOM), the Board of Investment (BOI), the Export Development Board (EDB), the Ministry of Development Strategies and other government institutions to achieve the export target.
The ICTA is also targeting 14,000 smart society circles to be set up within the next three to five years to create knowledge based societies les across the country.
The Agency has set up already around 800 such societies throughout the country which is aimed at bridging the digital divide and enabling people to use digital technology.
ICTA, Program Manager, Information Infrastructure, S. Gavashkar said a program to provide free Wi-Fi facilities in public location is underway and the facility has been provided to around 600 location across the country.
“We hope to set up the facility in around 860 government organizations,” Gavashkar said.
The e-Swabhimani awards held in line with the World Summit recognises excellence in digital content creation and stimulates interest in a wide range of content and services that serves society.
Awards held for the seventh consecutive year has attracted over 200 submissions from entrepreneurs, start –ups and students.
Nominations were accepted across nine categories comprising government and citizen engagement, health and well being, learning and education, environment and green energy, culture and tourism, smart settlement and urbanization, business and commerce, empowerment and digital entertainment.
The newly revamped e-Swabhimani website, www.eswabhimani.lk was also launched at the event.
The awards ceremony will be held at Hotel Galadari on November 30.