The 42nd National Information Technology Conference (NITC), themed “Catalysing a Progressive Future: Towards Society 5.0”, is scheduled to take place from 12-14 November at the Shangri-La Hotel in Colombo. 

This landmark event in the ICT sector is a premier, multi-faceted business conference which promises to be a hub of innovation and collaboration in the ICT sector. The NITC 2024 features a series of activities, including the National IT Conference, CSSL National ICT Awards, CSSL Colloquium, and the CSSL Digital Investment Summit. 

The conference tracks encompass a broad array of areas such as FinTech, eHealth, EduTech, Travel Tech, Info Sec, and e-Gov. With over 30 high-profile local and international speakers, attendees can expect a wealth of knowledge and insights from industry leaders and practitioners.

One of the highlights of the event will be the CSSL National ICT Awards, which recognizes significant national contributions by ICT professionals. The prestigious CSSL Elite Awards will be presented during the inauguration ceremony by the President of Sri Lanka, rejoicing the achievements of outstanding individuals in the ICT field.

The CSSL Colloquium and CSSL Digital Investment Summit will also play a crucial role in the conference. These sessions will feature more than a dozen product-based research papers, shortlisted through a rigorous selection process. Prominent local innovators will present their findings on the second day of the conference, showcasing cutting-edge developments in the ICT sector which could be taken forward for commercial production.

CSSL President Dr. Ajantha Atukorale said the CSSL, established in 1976, is the apex body representing Information and Communication Technology (ICT) professionals in Sri Lanka and is a member of the South East Asia Regional Computer Confederation (SEARCC) and the International Federation for Information Processing (IFIP). 

He explained that, as a provisional signatory of the Seoul Accord, which is an international accreditation agreement for professional computing and information technology academic degrees involving countries such as Australia, Canada, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, China, Japan, Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States, CSSL brings international standards to ICT-related degrees in Sri Lanka. 

He further stated that the CSSL is also an accredited professional body by the International Practice Partnership (IP3) and became the first ICT professional body in South East Asia to achieve the world-renowned IP3 Accreditation, and this accreditation underscores CSSL’s commitment to maintaining high standards in the ICT profession and ensuring that Sri Lankan ICT professionals are recognized globally.

NITC 2024 Conference Chair Udesh I.W. Seneviratna emphasised that the NITC 2024 is a platform for fostering innovation, collaboration, and growth in the ICT sector, which is a need of the hour in reviving the nation’s economy and development, and is excited to bring together the brightest minds to discuss and shape the future of technology. He stressed the importance of NITC 2024 being a significant milestone in the journey towards Society 5.0, where technology and society integrate seamlessly to create a more progressive future.

With a series of prior events leading up to the main conference, NITC 2024 is poised to be a significant milestone in the journey towards Society 5.0. The event aims to create a platform where technology and society integrate seamlessly to foster a more progressive future. 

CSSL Treasurer Indika De Zoysa said NITC 2024, under the theme “Catalysing a Progressive Future: Towards Society 5.0”, is set to be a pivotal event for the ICT community in Sri Lanka and beyond. With its comprehensive agenda, high-profile speakers, and focus on innovation and collaboration, the conference promises to be an invaluable experience for all attendees. 

The CSSL, with its rich history and commitment to excellence, continues to play a crucial role in advancing the ICT profession in Sri Lanka and ensuring that it meets international standards.

CSSL Secretary Dr. Amal Illesinghe highlighted the importance of Chief Information Officers (CIOs), who drive strategic IT leadership, spearhead digital transformation, manage cybersecurity, optimise operations, leverage data for insights, ensure smooth technological transitions, and develop skilled IT teams, being recognised by the CSSL National CIO List 2024.

CSSL Vice President Heshan Karunaratne, Council Members Dr. Shanta Yapa, Lakmal Embuldeniya, and Ruvendra Gunasena too were present at the launch of NITC 2024 along with partner institutions.