Axiata Group’s Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya has accepted the Government of Sri Lanka’s invitation to lead the country’s digital transformation efforts. Accordingly, Wijayasuriya will take on the role of Chief Advisor on Digital Economy starting 15 January 2025. The Axiata Group confirmed the appointment stating that he will relinquish his role at the company from the effective date. Dr. Hans Wijasuriya currently operates as CEO of Telecommunications Business and Group Executive Director of Axiata.
“I am honored by the invitation extended to me by the Government of Sri Lanka, and I stand privileged to have the opportunity to contribute to my country,” says Wijasuriya in his upcoming role. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake commenting on the appointment states it’s part of the effort to elevate Sri Lanka’s digital economy to regional standards. “Through progressive digital infrastructure, we’re committed to bringing economic growth, competitiveness, and real benefits to every citizen,” the president said.
Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya was part of Dialog’s founding team, joining the company in 1994 until he took over as CEO three years later. He operated as Dialog Axiata PLC’s Group Chief Executive from 1997 to 2016, the same year Wijasuriya was appointed as the CEO South Asia Region and Executive Vice President at Axiata Group Bhd. By 2020, he became Axiata’s CEO of Telecommunications Business before moving to his present role as CEO of Telecommunications Business and Group Executive Director in March 2023.
Wijasuriya’s upcoming role as Chief Advisor on Digital Economy marks one of the first appointments under the new presidency’s digital strategy plans. As of now, it remains to be seen how a new government will plan and prioritize Sri Lanka’s digital transformation over the next few years. In any case, it will be interesting to see if the proposed NPP Digital Policy will be enacted in any form and how the new administration navigates ongoing projects.
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