Minister's attention to slash connectivity cost

Manjari Peiris

In Sri Lanka, hardware, software and connectivity cost is very high. It is one of the highest in the world. Both hardware and software costs should be brought down, Science and Technology Minister Prof. Tissa Vitanana said.

"For three years, I have been trying to bring the cost down. It is high time that the Sri Lanka Telecom take suitable action to bring down the cost of connectivity," said Prof. Vitarana, participating as Chief Guest at the opening ceremony of "Java Sri Lanka 2009" at the BMICH. It is the Sri Lanka's first ever national software exhibition.

"The application of appropriate software is vital in various economic and social development in our country enabling young people to access software solutions. The promotion of Java technology is appropriate which is one of the emerging technologies," the Minister stated. Late Prof. Samanayake was very keen in introducing Java technology, he added.

The company has introduced 5,000 computers in Java and hopes to increase it up to 500,000.

The Minister stated the ICT industry has been affected by the economic recession, but will not be very badly affected as the other industries.

According to the Minister, India has developed business outsourcing which is tremendously helping professionals such as accountants, doctors, engineers and scientists. More companies are turning towards business outsourcing.

"Nearly 77 per cent of our population is in rural areas. We have to create more job opportunities using the human resources available there. Already 237 Vidatha Centres are established in the country." he said.

The Minister said the year 2009 has been declared the Year of Technology and English education.

Java Sri Lanka has decided to introduce the Java Technology to school curriculum and teachers will be trained in Information Technology. This program was initiated in January.

Meanwhile, information on sacred and religious places in Sri Lanka is entered to the internet. This opportunity is also provided through the "Java Sri Lanka 2009" which is held under the theme 'Java Technology to build the Nation for the Knowledge Economy'.