The AI and Data Analytics Summit 2026, organised by the Sri Lanka Section of BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, was successfully held on 22 May 2026 at Waters Edge, Colombo. The high-impact summit, themed “Next Generation AI & Data Analytics: Skills & Thoughts for the Intelligent Future”, brought together senior policymakers, global technology experts, industry leaders, academics, and innovators to explore how artificial intelligence and data analytics are reshaping Sri Lanka’s digital and economic future.
The event, endorsed by the Ministry of Digital Economy, was graced by Waruna Sri Dhanapala, Secretary to the Ministry of Digital Economy, who attended as Guest of Honour, underscoring the government’s strong commitment to advancing AI adoption, digital innovation, and data-driven governance as part of Sri Lanka’s public sector transformation agenda. Dr. Sadeep Jayasumana, Chief Scientist at Octave, delivered the keynote address on Generative AI, highlighting its transformative potential across industries.
Speaking on the significance of the summit, Prof. Lasith Gunawardena, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Section of BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, noted that artificial intelligence and data analytics have become key enablers of innovation, economic growth, and societal progress. He emphasised that the summit aligned with BCS’s purpose of “Making IT Good for Society” and the national need to bring together thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and industry experts to foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and responsible adoption of transformative technologies, thereby strengthening Sri Lanka’s digital readiness and supporting a resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive digital economy.
Mr. Ransith Fernando, Chair of the summit, said the event featured 21 speakers who shared valuable insights, ideas, and experiences. He noted that the discussions included inspiring success stories, practical industry knowledge, and strategic perspectives from business leaders. He added that while innovation is accelerating globally, Sri Lanka must align policy, talent, and industry readiness to operationalise AI at scale and ensure an inclusive and sustainable digital transformation.