Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya emphasized the urgent need to develop professional journalists who understand the responsibility and accountability of sharing accurate information.
PM Amarasuriya warned that misinformation causes significant harm to society, as many content creators spread false information for personal gain.
“Today, digital and social media have grown to a level comparable to traditional mainstream media, both globally and in Sri Lanka. Professions such as content creators and YouTubers now stand alongside traditional media professionals. What matters most is the influence these media possess. While their reach offers opportunities, it also brings both positive and negative outcomes,” she said.
The Prime Minister made these remarks at the certificate awarding ceremony of the MMC ITN Campus of the Independent Television Network (ITN) in Colombo, which honored students who completed the institution’s first certificate course, held at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute yesterday.
During the event, PM Amarasuriya presented gold awards to Abhisheka Dunukewela, Dimuthu Nirman, and Kavindya Gimhani, who achieved top honors in the course.
Highlighting the role of ITN Multi Media Campus, the Prime Minister stated that the institution is a pioneering educational center dedicated to shaping the next generation of media professionals, broadcasters, digital creators, and communication specialists. She noted that the global creative and digital industries generate over a trillion dollars annually. “These are not distant figures. Sri Lankan youth are inherently creative, and this program provides them with the knowledge and guidance to turn creativity into a livelihood. This is a valuable opportunity to enter the field with proper education and training,” she added.
She further emphasized that in today’s world, where topics like Immersive Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, Digital Analytics, and Digital Media Technologies are increasingly relevant, studying digital creation is no longer a luxury—it is essential. “The current generation is highly engaged in digital and social media creation, demonstrating creativity and confidence. The ITN MMC Campus equips students with modern digital skills, practical experience, and technical expertise needed to succeed in the rapidly evolving media industry,” she said.
Addressing the influence of digital and social media, PM Amarasuriya reiterated the importance of structured education for youth. “We often discuss misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation. These issues harm society, as some content creators spread false information for personal gain. Creating professional journalists who understand responsibility and accountability is therefore critical. Institutions like this have a vital role in nurturing such professionals,” she said.
The Prime Minister also praised the campus’s efforts to empower small and medium-scale digital entrepreneurs. “The government has prioritized digitalization across all sectors, with the goal of transforming job seekers into job creators. Your contribution is invaluable in achieving this vision. Knowledgeable, creative citizens capable of competing globally will not only shape their own futures but also contribute to the nation’s development,” she added.
Minister of Mass Media Nalinda Jayatissa expressed appreciation for ITN’s role in training individuals to advance digital technology. “Digitalization in the media sector is crucial for national progress. Digital literacy enables citizens to connect with the world and participate in the country’s growth,” he said.
Deputy Minister of Media Kaushalya Ariyarathna highlighted the importance of truth and positive values in digital content. “In digital marketing, advertisements can spread false or regressive ideas. Creative productions must promote equality, justice, and gender awareness. Simply owning a mobile phone does not make one a journalist; what matters is the accuracy and integrity of the information shared,” she stated.
