For decision making:

Processed info crucial

The inauguration ceremony for the SAARC Workshop on Digital Libraries Using Open Source Softwares, was held at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute (SLFI) recently. The Chief Guest for the occasion was Geethanjana Gunewardane, Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning.

The Deputy Minister stated that this was the first event of its kind to be organized and appreciated the opportunity to be part of it.

He further said that he was happy that he was able to "personally interact with Ministry officials involved in digitization, development information and their partners in our region as well as within our country."

Geethanjana Gunewardane stated that well processed information which was current and accessible was "crucial for good decision making." Furthermore, he stated that our country had been inherited with a very good civilization and "knowledge that was second to none in many parts of the world."

The Deputy Minister stated that the knowledge we inherited must be disseminated, "for the betterment of the world and for the development of technology for the safety for our future generations." He emphasized that knowledge centres should be accessible for the future generations.

The Deputy Minister of Finance went on to state that "digital libraries were being established worldwide overcoming constrains in sourcing information through traditional library systems, easing the buildup of knowledge which in today's context had provided a critical edge in overcoming constraints in development in an increasingly competitive global scenario."

He said the Government was committed to the Sri Lanka's position as a centre of excellence and knowledge.