The Ministry of Technology proudly announced the successful launch of AI Clubs in Schools, marking a significant step towards enhancing AI literacy among young students. The initiative, part of the National AI Strategy 2024-2028, aims to promote AI knowledge and skills, preparing students for a future where AI competencies will be crucial for success.
The initiative is a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Technology, the Ministry of Education, AIClub, SLASSCOM, and IronOne. Dr. Nisha Talagala, a world-renowned pioneer in AI literacy and the CEO of AIClub, leads the programme. Her extensive experience and leadership are pivotal to the success of this initiative.
Hon Kanaka Herath addressing the gathering said “Our National AI Strategy is a five-year roadmap designed to address the challenges of AI adoption and take AI to the grassroots level. The Ministry of Technology is launching AI clubs in schools nationwide along with the Ministry of Education to promote AI literacy and innovation, with the aim of creating a thriving AI ecosystem in Sri Lanka that benefits all sectors of society.”
The combination of this world-class platform, the expertise of AIClub, the involvement of the private sector and development agencies, and the strong leadership and commitment from policymakers and administrators positions Sri Lanka to be on par with advanced countries in AI literacy at the school level if the pilot program is successfully scaled up. The vision is for all schools in Sri Lanka, across all parts of the country, and covering all demographics, to have access to AI education.
The event was graced by the Minister of Education Hon. (Dr.) Susil Premajayantha, the State Minister of Technology Hon. Kanaka Herath, Chairman of the National AI Committee Dr. Romesh Ranawana, CEO of AI Club Dr. Nisha Talagala, Secretary of Ministry of Education Ms. Thilaka Jayasundara and Secretary Ministry of Technology Dr. Dharmasri Kumaratunge. Further, many dignitaries from both government and private sectors attended the event & it was witnessed by over 300 school students.
