The first AI Asia Summit took place in Colombo recently, and focussed exclusively on topics such as data science and machine learning.

Organised by the Sri Lanka Association of Software and Service Companies (SLASSCOM), the summit looked to raise awareness on the rapidly developing fields of AI and data science, and the plethora of opportunities they present.

Acclaimed international and local speakers highlighted the latest developments in AI across application, research and adoption.

SLASSCOM Chairman Jeevan Gnanam said it was time for Sri Lankan businesses to diversify, and become more AI and data science based to keep up with global demand. He added that Sri Lanka has the potential to be a leader in the data science and AI fields in the region, for which creating an AI culture is essential.

In collaboration with the Center for Data Science of the Department of Statistics of the University of Colombo, SLASSCOM recently launched educational programmes on the fundamentals of data science as a first step in creating a culture of data science and AI education in Sri Lanka.