Press briefing of Cabinet Decision taken on 2024-03-04 (Subject to Confirmation at the next Meeting)

Development of the Telecommunications Industry through Advancement of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Education

- In line with Sri Lanka's Digital Economy Strategy, the need to develop the Telecommunications Industry through the improvement of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) education has been identified to foster economic growth and innovation, thereby enabling to create skilled professionals required for the sustainable development of the Telecommunications Industry. The Telecommunication Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka is empowered to utilize or disburse 50% of the Telecommunication Development Charge collected from the licensees for the development of the telecommunications industry. Accordingly, Cabinet approved the joint proposal made by Hon. President in his capacity as the Minister of Technology; and the Minister of Education to implement the “Smart School Project” enabling to provide required equipment for 1000 schools where Information Communication Technology is taught as a subject for the GCE (Advanced Level), from the provisions of the Telecommunication Development Charge Fund; and to initiate a scholarship programme to provide financial assistance to 5,000 students from low-income earning families studying ICT as a subject.