Workshop on AI Awareness for Officers

Introduction to AI in Public Services

A significant event took place recently as a special workshop focused on the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing public services was conducted. This initiative aimed to equip government executive officers with the knowledge and skills necessary to integrate AI into their operations, ultimately transforming the public service into a more productive and efficient system.

The workshop, titled "AI for Transforming Public Service," was organized by the Digital Economy Ministry and supported by the Presidential Secretariat. It brought together executive officers from ten different ministries, including the Prime Minister's Office and the Cabinet Office. The primary goal of this session was to raise awareness about AI and prepare officials for the state's digital transformation agenda, while also cultivating a positive attitude towards artificial intelligence within the public sector.

Key Speakers and Their Contributions

During the event, Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Secretary to the President, addressed the participants. He highlighted the government's commitment to advancing digital transformation and stressed the importance of preparing the public service for this shift. Dr. Kumanayake emphasized that focusing on improving efficiency through AI would lead to better services for the public.

In addition to his address, Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya, Senior Adviser to the President on Digital Economy, delivered a keynote speech. His insights provided valuable perspectives on how AI can be leveraged to modernize public services. Alongside him, Harsha Purasinghe, a Board Member of the Information and Communication Technology Agency of Sri Lanka (ICTA), and other ICTA officials served as resource persons, offering practical knowledge and guidance during the workshop.

Participation and Broader Implications

The presence of key figures such as Secretary to the Prime Minister Pradeep Saputhanthri underscored the significance of the workshop. Executive officers from various ministries were in attendance, including those from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, the Ministry of Justice and National Integration, the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, the Ministry of Digital Economy, the Ministry of Health and Mass Media, the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development, and the Ministry of Energy.

This broad participation highlights the government's recognition of AI's potential in driving innovation and efficiency across all sectors. By involving officials from multiple ministries, the workshop aimed to create a unified approach to digital transformation, ensuring that all areas of public service are aligned with the goals of modernization.

The Role of AI in Public Sector Transformation

Artificial Intelligence is not just a technological advancement; it represents a paradigm shift in how public services are delivered. By integrating AI, government agencies can streamline processes, reduce administrative burdens, and enhance decision-making capabilities. This can lead to improved service delivery, greater transparency, and increased citizen satisfaction.

Moreover, the use of AI can help in identifying patterns and trends that may not be immediately apparent through traditional methods. This data-driven approach enables more informed policy decisions and resource allocation, ultimately leading to more effective governance.

Conclusion

The workshop marked an important step in Sri Lanka's journey towards a digitally transformed public service. By educating officials on the potential of AI, the government is laying the groundwork for a more efficient and responsive public sector. As the country continues to embrace digital technologies, the role of AI will become increasingly vital in shaping the future of public administration. This initiative not only fosters a culture of innovation but also ensures that the public service remains adaptable and capable of meeting the evolving needs of citizens.