The Computer Society of Sri Lanka (CSSL) recently launched its Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct with plans to formalise the process among its members and professionals in the IT sector.
CSSL President Yasas V. Abeywickrama said the launch was an important milestone for the entire industry and represented a much-needed intervention in time for the future of IT professionals of the country.
“With these codes, the IT industry in Sri Lanka now has a comprehensive professional framework in place. This should ensure high level of professionalism in our industry,” said Mr Abeywickrama during the launch.
CSSL’s Code of Conduct binds itself to rules that are within the core values of the Society’s Code of Ethics. These include professionalism, professional development, adding value to Sri Lanka, Honesty and Competence.
The launch also featured a keynote address by Dr Prathiba Mahanamahewa a senior lecturer in Commercial Law at the Faculty of Law, University of Colombo.
“The launch of the CSSL Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct is a great start for us. While there is no mandatory national policy for the industry as yet, this framework will set the groundwork towards protecting the industry and the people directly or indirectly involved in the industry, especially future recruits. The CSSL Codes are very much on par with many other international Codes of Ethics and Conduct and we appreciate the significant effort of CSSL to develop this framework, ” said Dr Mahanamahewa.
Through the launch of CSSL’s Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct, the Society not only has contributed to the industry by fulfilling a needed requirement, but will also hopefully inspire similar professional societies in industry and elsewhere to also consider launching similar initiatives.
Mr Abeywickrama added that CSSL has a rich history of over four decades and this comprehensive professional framework is an evolution of the work the organisation has done over this time.
The launch event was attended by various CSSL Past Presidents, members and representatives from across industry and academia including UCSC Director Professor K P Hewagamage and FITIS Chairman Dr Kithsiri Manchanayake.