Thursday Jun 04, 2026
Thursday Jun 04, 2026
Thursday, 4 June 2026 00:02 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
The AI and Data Analytics Summit 2026 organised by the Sri Lanka Section of BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT was successfully held on 22 May 2026 at Waters Edge, Colombo.
The high-impact summit themed “Next Generation AI and Data Analytics: Skills and Thoughts for the Intelligent Future” brought together senior policymakers, global technology experts, industry leaders, academics, and innovators to explore how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Analytics are reshaping the nation’s digital and economic future.
The event, endorsed by the Ministry of Digital Economy, was graced by Ministry Secretary Waruna Sri Dhanapala, who attended as the Guest of Honour, underscoring the Government’s strong commitment to advancing AI adoption, digital innovation, and data-driven governance in support of Sri Lanka’s broader public sector transformation agenda. Octave Chief Scientist Dr. Sadeep Jayasumana, delivered the keynote address on Generative AI, sharing insights into its transformative potential.
Speaking on the significance of the summit, Sri Lanka Section of BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT Chairman Prof. Lasith Gunawardena, noted that Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics have become present-day enablers of innovation, economic growth, and societal progress. He emphasised that the summit was guided by BCS’s purpose of Making IT Good for Society and by the national need to bring together thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and industry experts to foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the responsible adoption of transformative technologies, thereby strengthening Sri Lanka’s digital readiness and supporting a resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive digital economy.
Summit Chair Ransith Fernando said: “This year’s summit brought together 21 speakers who shared valuable insights, ideas, and experiences. We heard inspiring success stories, gained practical knowledge from industry practitioners, and explored strategic perspectives from business leaders. These conversations highlighted both the opportunity and the responsibility before us. While innovation is accelerating globally, Sri Lanka must align policy, talent, and industry readiness to truly operationalise AI at scale and ensure an inclusive and sustainable digital transformation.”
Summit Co-Chair Deshan Liyanage said this year’s summit was a fully sold-out event, reflecting the growing national momentum around Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics in Sri Lanka. He extended heartfelt gratitude to all participants who joined and contributed to the success of the summit, as well as to the sponsors whose support made the event possible.
Special appreciation was conveyed to Sysco LABS as the Strategic Partner, Linear Six as the Bronze Partner, InTalent Asia as the Resource Partner, and Motivista as the Event Partner. He also acknowledged the valuable collaboration of industry associations including SLASSCOM, FITIS, and CSSL, whose partnership helped strengthen and elevate the initiative.
