Women in Tech call for inclusive growth as Sri Lanka enters Al era

WITH artificial intelligence (AI) redefining industries worldwide, a group of Sri Lankan women professionals recently came together calling for greater inclusion and leadership opportunities for women in the country's tech space.

- BY DIVYA THOTAWATTE

This discussion took place at the Women in Tech - Chapter Reignite, which brought together leaders from Government, industry, and startups to discuss how Sri Lanka could build a more inclusive digital economy. It was organised by the Sri Lankan Chapter of Women in Tech, a global nonprofit dedicated to empowering women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

The event marked the chapter's relaunch and focused on digital readiness, competitiveness, and preparing women to lead in the AI-driven future. Among those present were Digital Economy Ministry ICT Director Chanaki Mallikarachchi, Women in Tech Sri Lanka Chapter Country Director and Ambassador Sanali Kaushalya, and other industry leaders.

Kaushalya highlighted that the chapter relaunch was meant to "reignite our passion, our purpose and our power to create lasting impact in the Sri Lanka tech ecosystem.

She noted that although women made up a significant share of graduates in science and engineering, the numbers of women pursuing IT and technology was far less. The gap represented lost potential that could have driven innovation, inclusion, and the digital economy," she said.

"This is not just about technology, it is about creating an ecosystem where women are not just participants but leaders, innovators and decision makers. Our mission is to make sure their contributions are recognised and celebrated and multiplied," she said.