By Jithendra Antonio
In an era where technology is reshaping every facet of human life, Sri Lanka stands at a crucial point. As global giants race ahead with advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) initiatives, our nation must decide whether to be a passive observer or a proactive participant. Establishing a Ministry of AI under the next President is not just a forward-looking initiative; it’s an urgent necessity. As the world witnesses the unprecedented growth of the AI industry and investments soar, Sri Lanka must seize this opportunity to secure its place in the global AI landscape.
Learning from Global Leaders - The Role of AI Ministries
Several nations have already recognized the transformative potential of AI and have established dedicated governmental bodies to oversee its development. In 2017, the United Arab Emirates became the first country to create a Ministry of Artificial Intelligence, signalling its ambition to become a global leader in AI by 2031. The UAE’s AI strategy focuses on enhancing government performance, utilizing AI in education, transportation, and healthcare, and attracting global AI talent to the region. Similarly, Saudi Arabia's AI Centre, established in 2019 as part of its Vision 2030 initiative, emphasizes ethical AI practices and innovation, aiming to position the kingdom as a global hub for AI development.
China, while lacking a specific Ministry of AI, demonstrates a comprehensive, high-level governmental focus on AI. With significant investments and regulatory bodies overseeing AI development, China aims to become the world's AI leader by 2030. Through a strategic combination of government support and private sector innovation, China’s AI capabilities are rapidly expanding, with companies like Alibaba and Baidu leading in fields such as facial recognition and autonomous vehicles.
These countries have recognized that a coordinated approach through dedicated AI ministries or equivalent bodies is essential for harnessing the full potential of AI. Their experiences provide a valuable roadmap for Sri Lanka to follow.
Enhancing Efficiency and Productivity - The AI Advantage
One of the most compelling arguments for a Ministry of AI in Sri Lanka is the potential to revolutionize public sector efficiency. AI can automate routine administrative tasks, freeing up human resources for more complex and strategic roles. For example, chatbots and AI-driven customer service platforms can handle a vast majority of citizen inquiries, providing instant responses and improving public service delivery. AI can also assist in data analysis for informed decision-making, helping government agencies develop policies based on real-time insights.
The potential labour savings and productivity gains are immense. According to a study by Accenture, AI could increase productivity by up to 40% by 2035 in developed economies. Sri Lanka, with its burgeoning public sector and the need for streamlined governance, stands to benefit significantly from such gains. A Ministry of AI would provide the necessary infrastructure and regulatory framework to implement AI solutions across government departments, ensuring a consistent and effective approach to public sector transformation.
Boosting National Security - AI as the Sentinel
National security is another critical area where AI can play a transformative role. In a world of evolving threats, AI-driven surveillance systems can detect potential dangers in real-time, enabling proactive responses. AI-powered analytics can sift through vast amounts of data to identify crime patterns, helping law enforcement agencies to prevent criminal activities before they occur. Autonomous drones equipped with AI capabilities can monitor borders and sensitive installations, providing an added layer of security.
Sri Lanka’s geographical and strategic positioning makes it imperative to invest in advanced security measures. The establishment of a Ministry of AI would enable the development and deployment of AI-driven security solutions, enhancing the country’s ability to respond to emerging threats and ensuring the safety of its citizens.
Driving Economic Growth and Innovation
The global AI market is projected to reach $190.61 billion by 2025, according to MarketsandMarkets. As the AI industry grows, so does the potential for economic benefits. By developing a comprehensive AI strategy and establishing a National AI Centre, Sri Lanka can attract foreign investments, foster innovation, and create job opportunities. The Ministry of AI can serve as a catalyst for the country’s digital economy, promoting research and development through partnerships with academia and the private sector.
A focus on AI can also transform key sectors such as healthcare and education. AI applications in healthcare can improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment efficiency, addressing the challenges of limited access to quality healthcare, particularly in rural areas. In education, AI can facilitate personalized learning, ensuring that students receive tailored instruction that meets their unique needs.
Addressing Challenges - Ethical AI and Data Privacy
While the potential benefits of AI are significant, it is crucial to address the challenges associated with its implementation. Data privacy and security are paramount, requiring robust safeguards and comprehensive legislation. The Ministry of AI would be responsible for establishing ethical guidelines and governance structures to ensure responsible AI use. By focusing on transparency, accountability, and the protection of citizens’ rights, the ministry can foster public trust in AI initiatives.
Furthermore, addressing the skill gap is essential for the successful integration of AI. Sri Lanka faces a shortage of advanced AI skills, exacerbated by brain drain. The Ministry of AI can play a pivotal role in developing education and training programs to build a skilled AI workforce, ensuring that the country has the talent necessary to support its AI ambitions.
A Strategic Move for Sri Lanka’s Future
Sri Lanka’s current ranking of 95th out of 193 countries in the Oxford Insights’ 2023 Government AI Readiness Index indicates significant room for improvement. Establishing a Ministry of AI under the next President would signal a commitment to advancing Sri Lanka’s technological capabilities and improving its global standing. By strategically investing in AI infrastructure and talent development, Sri Lanka can harness the power of AI to drive economic growth, enhance public services, and improve the quality of life for its citizens.
Building a Future-Ready Sri Lanka
The establishment of a Ministry of AI in Sri Lanka is not just a policy decision; it is a vision for the future. Under the leadership of the next President, this initiative can position Sri Lanka as a competitive player in the global AI landscape, ensuring that the country is not left behind in the technological revolution. By focusing on efficiency, productivity, national security, and ethical AI development, Sri Lanka can create a future where technology serves the people, drives economic prosperity, and enhances the nation’s security and well-being. The opportunity to act is upon us, and the direction forward is unmistakable.
(The writer is a Consultant specialised in Data Analytics with a Special Focus on Sri Lanka’s Future Direction, and in the fields of Sustainable Energy, ESG, Investments and telecommunications. He can be reached at jithendra.antonio@gmail.com.)