Thursday Dec 12, 2024
Thursday Dec 12, 2024
Thursday, 22 April 2021 00:04 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
With the aim of building an innovative society and supporting children reach their full potential, SLIIT unveiled the first in a series of fully-equipped computer innovation labs for lower income schoolchildren from the Kaduwela area recently.
Developed by SLIIT, as part of its pioneering corporate social responsibility projects for the nation, the donated lab was ceremoniously inaugurated on Thursday, 25 March. This landmark occasion was attended by Minister of Industries Wimal Weerawansa as the Chief Guest. Also participating in the event was MP Premnath C. Dolawatte, Media Spokesperson for the Prime Minister, Mahinda Rajapaksa.
Speaking at the event, Weerawansa said: “This project will help the people in Kaduwela immensely. As the world is advancing, Information Technology is a key component and future generations must be skilled in this subject. This collaboration between KMC and SLIIT will greatly help students to develop their knowledge and reach their potential."
The innovation lab was handed over to Mayor Buddhika Jayavilal of the Kaduwela Municipal Council (KMC) by SLIIT Vice Chancellor/CEO Professor Lalith Gamage. Senior personnel from SLIIT were also present at this special occasion.
Jayavilal stated: “We are extremely appreciative of SLIIT’s in creating this important space, for both the children and the community of Kaduwela. We know that ICT is the future of our young people and this facility is not just a computer laboratory but will expand opportunities for these children in education, helping to build a brighter future for them.”
The lab is a fully-equipped computer laboratory with computers, containing infrastructure such as UPS and network requirements, including projectors, tables and chairs. SLIIT fully sponsored all desktop computers and other equipment installed at the lab.
Prof. Gamage noted: “SLIIT was established over 20 years ago with the aim of introducing information technology to the education sector. Today we have achieved this goal. It is the vision of the President that facilities and services for citizens should be made easily accessible by using technology. To ensure this to-date we have commenced several programs. To further the vision of a Digital Government and Digital Economy, Information Technology skills and knowledge are vital and necessary.”
To help these children thrive in a knowledge economy, SLIIT aims to design and conduct computer courses jointly with the KMC. Upon the successful completion of the programs the students will be awarded a valuable certificate issued by SLIIT. SLIIT is also planning to extend these CSR activities across the island to ensure more children benefit.
