CSSL launches Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct for ICT professionals

The Computer Society of Sri Lanka (CSSL) recently launched its Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct with an intention to formalise the process among its members and professionals in the Information Technology (IT) sector. 

CSSL President Yasas V. Abeywickrama believed that the launch was an important milestone for the entire industry and the launch is indeed a much-needed intervention in time for the future of IT professionals of the country. 

“With these codes, now the IT industry in Sri Lanka has a comprehensive professional framework in place. This should ensure high level of professionalism in our industry,” said CSSL President Yasas V. Abeywickrama during the launch. 

CSSL’s Code of Conduct bounds itself to rules that are within the core values of the Society’s Code of Ethics. These include professionalism, professional development, added value to Sri Lanka, Honesty and Competence. 

The keynote address for the launch was Dr. Prathiba Mahanamahewa a senior lecturer on Commercial Law at the Faculty of Law, University of Colombo. 

“The launch of the CSSL Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct is a great start for us. While there is no mandatory national policy for the industry just as yet, this framework will set the groundwork towards protecting the industry and the people directly or indirectly involved in the industry, especially the future recruits. The CSSL Codes are very much on par with many other international Codes of Ethics and Conduct and we appreciate the significant effort of CSSL to develop this framework,” said Dr. Prathiba Mahanamahewa.

Through the launch of CSSL’s Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct, the Society not only has contributed to the industry by fulfilling a needed requirement but will also hopefully inspire similar professional societies in both the industry and otherwise to also take into consideration the importance of the launch and thereby start similar initiatives on their own. 

CSSL President further added that his organisation has a rich history of over four decades and this strong comprehensive professional framework is an evolution of the work the organisation has done over a long period of time and establishing this framework is one of the golden historical achievements of CSSL as well as of the entire IT industry in Sri Lanka.

The launch event was attended by CSSL past presidents, members and industry and academia representatives including UCSC Director Professor K.P. Hewagamage and FITIS Chairman Dr. Kithsiri Manchanayake.