## Universal High-Speed Broadband Target Set for 2029 š
The Sri Lankan government has outlined a strategic timeline to provide all citizens with high-speed connectivity by 2029, addressing key infrastructure gaps in the ICT/BPM and digital sectors. ā¢ Infrastructure Requirements Capacity Expansion: Nationwide capacity must increase by 25% to ensure universal access, specifically targeting schoolchildren. Tower Rollout: 100 new towers are scheduled for installation in 2024. However, between 600 and 1,000 additional towers are required to meet full demand. Connectivity Gap: While current internet coverage is at 98%, officials clarified this does not yet equate to high-speed broadband standards. ā¢ Commercial & Regional Strategy Private Sector Role: A commercial model for tower deployment will be developed, allowing private sector participation via a bidding process. Digital Literacy: The Sectoral Oversight Committee emphasized strengthening digital literacy outside Colombo, utilizing District Secretariat offices for coordination. ā¢ Budgetary Oversight The plans were reviewed during 2026 Budget allocation discussions for the Ministries of Digital Economy and Science and Technology.