Bridging the language gap: How AI can unlock new opportunities for tourism industry

OVER three decades ago, I was fortunate to be part of Sri Lanka’s telecom revolution, as founding MD of Mobitel — helping connect fishermen, farmers, and families far beyond Colombo. Back then, a simple mobile call could transform a fisherman’s daily catch into a better income, or help a rural family access vital information. It was a reminder that real progress often starts by giving people the tools to help themselves.

- By Vijendran Watson

Today, the world has changed dramatically. I have spent much of my life in the telecom and technology sectors, helping roll out mobile networks not just in Sri Lanka but across Asia — from India and Bangladesh to Myanmar. Technology continues to move at lightning speed, and now we stand on the threshold of another profound leap forward: artificial intelligence.

AI might be controversial, but when used wisely, it can become a powerful tool for good. One area where it can have an immediate, practical impact in Sri Lanka is in bridging the English-speaking gap.

Anyone who travels across this country will see firsthand the hunger for growth and opportunity, especially among young people, informal workers, and small businesses who stand to gain the most from the surge in tourism, trade, and global connectivity.

Yet one barrier persists: spoken English.

Many Sri Lankans can read or write some English, but struggle with confidence when it comes to real conversation. Whether it's a tuk-tuk driver, a hotel worker, a small B&B owner, or a police officer helping a tourist, the difference that clear communication makes is huge.

If we want to truly unlock Sri Lanka’s potential, we must tackle this gap head-on.

Teaching to fish, not giving a fish