The preliminary work for the establishment of “Techno Parks,” a major development project proposed to implement the Government's policy of ensuring a technology-centric economy, has been completed, said the Secretary to the Ministry of Technology Jayantha De Silva.
To this end, the creation of five new technology parks in the country has been identified in the cities of Galle, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and Kurunegala.
The purpose is to build an economy driven by technology entrepreneurs to increase export and foreign earnings from the technology sector and to initiate knowledge and professional services in the national economy. These views were expressed at a meeting held to educate technology entrepreneurs, professionals, service providers and relevant officials and to gain their suggestions. The meeting was held at the Miloda Academy of Financial Studies’ auditorium.
The program encourages access to technology-focused investments, businesses, entrepreneurship and allied service industries with the expectation of creating new employment opportunities for the youth which will generate high income.
The Techno Parks will be designed to address the needs of the country, considering the socio-economic and geographical features of the park and encouraging businesses to adapt to the environment. The program further focuses on the creation of an environment that is closely intertwined with the natural environment in the relevant areas and eco-friendliness is considered as a fundamental basis.
The proposed Techno Parks will consist of varied facilities including entertainment, which are essential for the balance of a busy life. The parks will cover about 100 acres while many other infrastructure facilities will be developed in the vicinity.
Moreover, Prof. Lalith Gamage, Chairman of ICTA pointed out that by creating a technology-based economy, the ICT Agency has a clear policy that identifies all the requirements, including the digital development strategies, the laws, policies & the digital infrastructure.
In addition, encouraging foreign companies to start their businesses in Sri Lanka in a mutually beneficial manner will lead the said techno parks to attract foreign direct investment. These parks create an environment that supports regional development through digital transformation and innovation.
Additional Secretary to the Ministry of Technology A.K.R Alawatta, Director General of the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission Oshada Senanayake, CEO of the Information and Communication Technology Agency, Mahinda B. Herath, Chief Digital Economic Officer Anura De Alwis and others were present at this meeting.