The Sri Lanka Association for Software and Services Companies (SLASSCOM) has set a bold vision for the IT/BPM sector — to reach USD 5 billion in revenue, create 200,000 direct jobs and set up 1,000 start-ups by 2030.
SLASSCOM Chairman Nishan Mendis said SLASSCOM is implementing a series of strategic initiatives to drive this forward. The USD 5 billion target is made up of two parts: USD 3 billion through organic growth within existing businesses and USD 2 billion through attracting new investment. To achieve this target, there has to be an enabling environment that will support existing businesses and attract new investments into the sector.
“A crucial part of this journey is our talent strategy. Our industry’s biggest asset is its workforce. We are focusing on re-skilling and up-skilling of professionals while also strengthening STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education at multiple levels”, Mendis said.
“However, it’s not just about technical skills—we are equally committed to developing essential power skills, such as communication and leadership, which are vital to support our efforts in building a globally competitive workforce”, the Chairman said.
SLASSCOM’s goal is ultimately not just about hitting numbers. It is true that numbers are needed to set measurable objectives but, in the end, it’s about ensuring that Sri Lanka’s IT/BPM industry remains competitive, resilient, and future-ready.
“On the demand side, we are supporting our companies in expanding into global markets while actively promoting Sri Lanka as a prime destination for foreign companies to establish their operations, he said adding that the ‘Island of Ingenuity’ brand plays a pivotal role in this effort, showcasing Sri Lanka’s unique capabilities and positioning the country as a trusted global IT/BPM hub,” he said.
