AI Revolution Is Here — And Sri Lanka Wants In

COLOMBO (News 1st); Deputy Minister of Digital Economy Eranga Weeraratne declared that artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept, but a present-day necessity — and Sri Lanka must act now or risk being left behind.

“AI is transforming industries, reshaping economies, and redefining how we live and work,” Weeraratne said. “But here’s the truth — Sri Lanka is falling behind.”

Citing global benchmarks, he noted that India has already achieved a 57% national AI adoption rate, while Singapore runs over 90% of its government services using AI. Even countries like Vietnam have set 2030 as their target to become AI leaders. “We cannot afford to watch from the sidelines. We must step to the front,” he urged.

The Sri Lanka AI Expo, he said, marks a turning point — a platform to bring together global experts, industry leaders, educators, and innovators to shape a national AI roadmap. The government has already published a National AI Strategy, now open for public consultation, with a focus on ethical, inclusive, and sustainable adoption.

He also announced that September 2025 will be declared Sri Lanka’s ‘Digital Month’, with the AI Expo serving as a global signal that Sri Lanka is not just adopting AI — it is preparing to lead.

“The AI revolution is happening with or without us,” Weeraratne concluded. “I choose it to be with us. And I believe Sri Lanka has the talent, the creativity, and the determination to lead in this new era.”