The Federation of Information Technology Industry Sri Lanka (FITIS) has officially launched the Digital Excellence Awards 2026, under the theme “Embracing the AI Revolution.” The initiative aims to recognise organisations demonstrating excellence in digital innovation while supporting Sri Lanka’s ambition to develop a globally competitive US$15 billion digital economy.

The launch brought together senior government representatives and technology industry leaders who shared a common vision of positioning Sri Lanka as a leading digital nation. Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya, Chief Advisor to the President on Digital Economy, delivered the keynote address and highlighted the government’s commitment to improving technology standards across the country.

Dr. Wijayasuriya noted that the government is working towards making the standardisation and certification of services according to international benchmarks a mandatory requirement, strengthening Sri Lanka’s ability to compete in the global digital economy.

FITIS Chairman Dr. Dayan Rajapakse stressed that achieving the country’s US$15 billion digital economy target will require significant improvements in digital infrastructure, standardisation frameworks and overall ecosystem readiness.

The Digital Excellence Awards 2026 is expected to play an important role in this process by encouraging organisations to measure their digital capabilities against internationally recognised standards. Fairooz Habeeb, Project Chairman of the Digital Excellence Awards 2026, explained that FITIS has developed a comprehensive benchmarking framework aligned with international standards.

According to Habeeb, participating organisations will have the opportunity to undergo assessment and certification with recognised global entities, supported by FITIS’s knowledge partners and consultants. This approach is intended to help Sri Lankan businesses strengthen their digital capabilities and align their operations with global best practices.

The event also featured insights from leading figures in Sri Lanka’s technology sector, including Thushera Kawdawatta, Managing Director of Sysco LABS; Rikaz Moin, President of the FITIS Software Chapter; and Ehantha Sirisena, Executive Committee Member of the FITIS Software Chapter.

With artificial intelligence and emerging technologies rapidly transforming businesses worldwide, FITIS aims to use the Digital Excellence Awards as a platform to encourage innovation, strengthen digital standards and promote technology adoption among Sri Lankan enterprises.

The initiative ultimately seeks to contribute to the development of a stronger digital ecosystem and position Sri Lankan businesses to compete more effectively in international markets, supporting the country’s broader vision of becoming a leading digital economy.