A ceremony was held in Colombo yesterday (25) to launch the provision of free-wifi through the SLT network at the Galle Face Green. While attending the event, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe stressed the potency of the digital revolution and how Sri Lanka needs to adapt itself to it. 

The Prime Minister stated that the initiative to provide free wifi to the people is being successfully carried out by the government and SLT. He mentioned that over 200 units will be set up in key locations of the city to provide people with free access to the internet. 
   
“Today, there are more electronic and mobile devices in the country than people. Because of this there is a rising demand for the people to be equipped with basic facilities for internet access.” The Prime Minister said. 

The Premier also stated that Sri Lankan cannot progress as a nation if we do not accustom ourselves to the digital revolution that is engulfing the world. He stated that the ambition of the government is to establish a digital economy with skilled, knowledgeable professionals contributing proactively to take Sri Lanka into the future. 

“There was a time where world economies were built around agriculture. Later the focus was on industry and also commerce. Today every economy in the world is transforming into a digital one. When the Sri Lankan economy is transformed into a digital entity, communication, commerce, travel and infrastructure will boom within the nation” he said. 

Prime Minister Wickremesinghe stated that the lowering of the telecommunication tax regulations was the initial step of the government in a vast development plan. He mentioned that next several wifi units will be set up all across the country to provide free and unlimited internet access. It was also reported that by April 2018, every Advanced Level student will be provided with an electronic tab to better aid their educational activities.  
 
“The government believes that the future of our nation lies with the youth. We will take all necessary steps to equip the youth of Sri Lanka with all the necessary equipment and infrastructure to build a brighter future for our country” stated the Premier who thanked SLT and the Minister of Telecommunication Harin Fernando for aiding the government in this development project.