Prof. Samarajiva urges youth to embrace opportunities in tech-driven world

By Rukaiya Riza

During the Youth Tech Skills Development Program graduation ceremony by People’s Bank and Sarvodaya Fusion, the focus was mainly on what the graduates can achieve going forward. In the presence of a group of young graduates about to start their lives in the digital age, Professor Rohan Samarajiva said it is important to feel confident and be responsible.

He noted that we are experiencing major changes around the world and in Sri Lanka, especially in technology, business, and social fields. Technology is not something apart from the rest anymore. It affects each process and value chain from the fields to the company or business.

The time of IT being hidden in an isolated corner is over. It is expected that digital skills should be present in every area of a company today. 

He also pointed out that the use of names such as ‘digital economy’ and ‘GovTech’ reflect society’s perception of technology, which is not considered only a useful support function but also a main factor in change.

Working in the field, first with CINTEC in the 1980s and continuing today as a leader at Sarvodaya Fusion, he has provided an account of Sri Lanka’s progress in creating digital infrastructure. “The basics are currently in place,” he said. “We now need to pace progress and push it ahead faster”.

He focused on the fact that we are all one nation. “People can differ on several matters, but there is a growing feeling that digitalization is necessary. It shows there is good progress, especially with new investments and joint efforts from different industries supporting the digital economy.”

He suggested to the graduates not to portray technology as the only factor that is disruptive or risky, but as a major source of possibilities.

“Today, your knowledge of digital skills is almost a necessity to help you achieve your potential. Now is when your work becomes crucial in the development of Sri Lanka in the digital world”, he added

With their new chapter starting, Prof. Samarajiva made it clear that digital is the future and already now is the time to guide change.