Sri Lanka is shackled by a reluctance to embrace technological advancements. While neighbouring countries leapfrog into the future, Sri Lanka remains ensnared in a web of politicisation and bureaucratic inertia. This technological stagnation, compounded by an over-reliance on outdated methods, is hampering the country’s progress across various sectors. The time for change is now, yet we continue to drag our feet.
Consider the education sector. While countries like India and Vietnam have rapidly integrated technology into their educational systems, Sri Lankan schools are still grappling with basic infrastructure issues. The pandemic highlighted this glaring disparity. As online learning became the norm globally, many Sri Lankan students were left without access to digital devices or reliable internet connections. Initiatives to distribute tablets and laptops have been bogged down by red tape and political bickering. The result? A generation of students losing out on vital digital literacy.
In healthcare, the story is similar. Telemedicine, which saw exponential growth worldwide during the Covid-19 pandemic, remains underutilised in Sri Lanka. Countries like Bangladesh have implemented telehealth services, providing remote consultations and managing chronic diseases efficiently. Meanwhile, Sri Lankan healthcare still relies heavily on face-to-face interactions, which are not always feasible, particularly in rural areas. Efforts to digitise patient records and streamline health services are sluggish, hindered by a lack of political will and inadequate investment in technology.
The transport sector too reflects our technological inertia. While Singapore and Malaysia boast smart traffic management systems and integrated public transport networks, Sri Lanka struggles with traffic congestion and inadequate public transport. Proposals to modernise the railway system with digital ticketing and real-time tracking have been mired in bureaucratic delays. Instead of leveraging technology to create efficient transport solutions, we continue to rely on outdated methods that contribute to daily commuter frustration and economic inefficiency.
In agriculture, technology could revolutionise productivity and sustainability, yet Sri Lanka remains behind. Precision agriculture, which utilises data analytics, Internet of Things (IoT), and drones to optimise farming, is gaining traction in countries like Thailand and Indonesia. These technologies enhance crop yields and resource management, addressing food security issues. In contrast, Sri Lankan farmers largely depend on traditional practices, missing out on the benefits of modern agricultural technologies due to a lack of governmental support and training.
Why is Sri Lanka so slow to adopt technology? The answer lies in the politicisation of development and an entrenched bureaucratic culture. Technological initiatives often become political footballs, with successive governments scrapping or stalling projects initiated by their predecessors. Additionally, the bureaucratic red tape and a lack of cohesive policy direction stifle innovation and delay implementation. Political instability and corruption further exacerbate these issues, creating an environment where progress is perennially hindered.
To break free from this cycle of stagnation, Sri Lanka must depoliticise technological development and foster a culture of innovation. It should establish clear, long-term technology policies that transcend political regimes. These policies should prioritise digital infrastructure, incentivise innovation, and streamline bureaucratic processes. Further, it should leverage the expertise and resources of the private sector through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs). Such collaborations can drive technological advancements in various sectors, from healthcare to transport.
The Government should also invest in digital education to equip the younger generation with the skills needed for a tech-driven future. This includes not only infrastructure but also teacher training and curriculum development. Finally, it should also focus on enhancing connectivity in rural areas to ensure equitable access to technology. This will bridge the digital divide and foster inclusive growth.