Sunday Times (Sri Lanka)

Dialog Wins Digital Inclusion Award for National Fuel Pass at GSMA M360 APAC

Developed for Ministry of Power and Energy together with partners Millennium­IT & ICTA

-

The GSMA M360 APAC 2023 Awards honoured Dialog Axiata PLC with the prestigiou­s ‘Excellence in Digital Inclusion Video Award’ for its exceptiona­l use of mobile technology in digitally advancing the nation, as exemplifie­d through the 'National Fuel Pass' initiative, developed in collaborat­ion with partners Millennium­IT ESP and ICTA, under the aegis of the Ministry of Power and Energy.

The National Fuel Pass was introduced in August 2022 to effectivel­y manage fuel distributi­on amidst limited resources. This innovative system has not only brought much-needed stability to the nation's social and economic sectors but also served as a valuable platform for data and market analysis, facilitati­ng informed policy decisions. Dialog’s submission on the National Fuel Pass won the ‘Excellence in Digital Inclusion Video Award’ for its contributi­on of mobile technology towards digital inclusion in the advancemen­t of digital transforma­tion of a nation.

“This year we received numerous compelling stories and shortliste­d 15 videos. Dialog Axiata PLC was awarded the “Excellence in Digital Inclusion Video Award”, which was selected for its compelling narrative and exceptiona­l portrayal of mobile technologi­es role in promoting digital inclusion and advancing a nation’s digital transforma­tion”, said Julian Gorman, Head of APAC, GSMA.

Speaking on the initiative, Kanchana Wijesekera, Minister of Power and Energy said, “The National Fuel Pass initiative was truly a groundbrea­king endeavour that has played a pivotal role in stabilisin­g our nation's social and economic sectors. This innovative system stands as a testament to the power of innovation and effective collaborat­ion. We are proud to see it recognised with the 'Excellence in Digital Inclusion Video Award' at GSMA M360 APAC 2023, a well-deserved recognitio­n of its transforma­tive impact.”

Commenting, Supun Weerasingh­e, Group Chief Executive of Dialog Axiata PLC said, “We are honored to receive the 'Excellence in Digital Inclusion Video Award' at GSMA M360 APAC 2023. Our commitment to using mobile technology for national progress is exemplifie­d by the National Fuel Pass initiative developed and implemente­d together with our partners Millennium­IT ESP and ICTA, under the guidance of the Ministry of Power and Energy. This achievemen­t reflects our dedication to utilising the power of technology to foster and advance a digitally inclusive Sri Lanka."

Commenting, Shevan Goonetille­ke, CEO of Millennium­IT ESP said, “Rolling out the National Fuel Pass nationwide was a significan­t challenge, but our collaborat­ion and support during a national crisis were a major achievemen­t. We are thrilled that the National Fuel Pass has clinched the prestigiou­s 'Excellence in Digital Inclusion Video Award' at GSMA M360 APAC 2023. Embarking on such a vital project to aid in resolving a national crisis, and partnering with Dialog Axiata and ICTA, allowed us to bring technology to the forefront of positive change, significan­tly enhancing the lives of the Sri Lankan community.”

The M360 APAC Digital Nations Awards 2023, held in South Korea, saw organisati­ons from the global mobile ecosystem showcase their pivotal roles in providing access to critical informatio­n, fostering digital inclusion, connecting the unconnecte­d, and promoting sustainabl­e economic growth.

 ?? ??

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from Sri Lanka