SLASSCOM Names New Chairperson

Okay, here’s an article based on the provided information and the “SLASSCOM appoints new Chairperson Shehani Seneviratne – dailynews.lk” title.

SLASSCOM: Debugging Sri Lanka’s Tech Trajectory with New Chairperson

Okay, folks, let’s dive into the Sri Lankan IT/BPM sector, because honestly, it’s more exciting than watching paint dry, especially when we’re talking about leadership transitions. Think of SLASSCOM as the motherboard for the island nation’s tech innovation. Recent buzz centers around the appointment of Shehani Seneviratne as Chairperson for the 2025/2026 term, effective July 4, 2025. Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Another leadership change? Wake me when they invent teleportation.” But hold your horses (or should I say, hold your gigabytes?) This ain’t just any old changing of the guard. It’s a strategic reboot of sorts, signaling a commitment to inclusivity and setting the stage for future growth amidst a sea of economic and technological shifts.

Meanwhile, headlines are popping up all over: SriLankan Airlines trying to claw back some brand recognition, Sri Lanka Customs raking in more revenue (someone’s gotta pay the bills, right?), and Hungary wrestling with international debt restructuring. Sri Lanka’s tech sector operates within the context of these national trends. Seneviratne’s appointment is more than just a boardroom shuffle; it’s a signal flare indicating tech’s central role in Sri Lanka’s economic future. Time to get this code compiling!

The Seneviratne Era: More Than Just a Title Update

So, why all the hype around Shehani Seneviratne? Simple. She’s not just another suit; she’s got serious street cred. With over 25 years slinging code (metaphorically, probably) in the tech trenches, she knows the game. As the current COO of 99X Technology, a pretty significant software player in Sri Lanka, she’s seen firsthand the operational chaos and strategic chess matches that define the industry.

But here’s where it gets interesting. Seneviratne isn’t just about climbing the corporate ladder; she’s about building a better one. Her past work with SLASSCOM’s HR Forum and the Women’s Tech (Wtech) Forum shows she’s invested in developing talent and, crucially, boosting gender diversity. And, get this: she’s only the *second* woman to hold the Chairperson title at SLASSCOM. Boom! Talk about a milestone. This isn’t just virtue signaling, folks. It’s a recognition that diverse perspectives are mission-critical for innovation in this crazy-fast tech world. I mean, let’s be real, if everyone thinks alike, you’re just building the same buggy software over and over. Her board membership with the Women’s Chamber for Digital proves she’s committed to leveling the playing field for women in tech. Gotta give props where they’re due.

SLASSCOM’s Role: Firewall Against Economic Doom (and Bad Code)

Now, let’s zoom out and look at the bigger picture. SLASSCOM isn’t just some internal club. It’s the industry’s voice, advocating for the Sri Lankan IT/BPM sector on the world stage. They’re the ones trying to woo foreign investors, promote Sri Lanka as the next IT outsourcing hotspot, and help local tech companies grow. Seneviratne’s experience and network are going to be vital in navigating these waters.

The global scene is a mixed bag right now. On one hand, there’s cutthroat competition from other outsourcing destinations and general economic gloominess. On the other, the demand for digital solutions is exploding, and technologies like AI and Cloud Computing are offering massive opportunities. It’s a classic high-risk, high-reward scenario.

And here’s a kicker: Starlink is now offering more internet access in Sri Lanka. That’s a game changer! SLASSCOM, under Seneviratne’s command, can leverage this improved connectivity to really expand the IT/BPM sector’s reach and impact. I mean, come on, better internet means easier remote work, more talent, and smoother international collabs. It’s like upgrading from dial-up to fiber optics for the entire country’s tech sector.

Independence and Interdependence: A Delicate Dance

SLASSCOM is built to be somewhat independent, much like Sri Lanka’s central bank, which allows it to guide the industry’s course. The board of directors, newly appointed for the 2024/2025 year, emphasizes the ongoing efforts to bring fresh perspectives to governance. This strong leadership team will foster innovation, boost growth, and promote global engagement for the IT/BPM sector.

Think about it: a thriving IT/BPM sector is basically printing money for Sri Lanka in terms of export revenue, job creation, and overall economic development. So, SLASSCOM’s success is directly tied to the nation’s progress. Seneviratne will play a key role in navigating this complex landscape, pushing for policies that support the industry’s growth, and making sure Sri Lanka stays competitive in the global tech arena. Her focus on HR and Wtech initiatives suggests she’s serious about creating a sustainable and inclusive ecosystem that can attract and retain the best talent. And that, my friends, is how you build long-term success.

System Down, Man! (Just Kidding…Hopefully)

Seneviratne’s appointment is a vote of confidence in the Sri Lankan tech sector’s potential. But potential only gets you so far. It’s going to take hard work, smart strategy, and a healthy dose of luck to navigate the challenges ahead. Will she be able to steer SLASSCOM – and the broader Sri Lankan IT/BPM sector – towards continued growth and innovation? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure: this is one code deployment worth watching. And hey, if things go south, at least we can all blame the interest rates, right? I gotta go refill my coffee now, this rate wrecking is expensive!