President launches Rs. 1 bn research initiative on the relationship between Buddha’s teachings and AI
May 12, Colombo (LNW): President Ranil Wickremesinghe has announced a notable initiative aimed at exploring the intersection between Buddha’s teachings and Artificial Intelligence (AI), earmarking Rs. 01 billion for research in the upcoming year.
The announcement was made during his attendance at the 100th-anniversary celebration of the Sri Lanka Buddhist Society Moratuwa.
The President revealed that while the research initiative was initially slated to commence this year, it has been postponed to the following year due to the absence of necessary legislation governing AI regulation.
He stressed that further steps would be taken once the requisite laws are enacted.
The President underscored the government’s commitment to restoring the Moratuwa Buddhist Society Hall, which is approaching its centenary milestone.
During his visit to the hall, President Ranil Wickremesinghe partook in religious ceremonies and symbolically planted a sandalwood tree on the premises to commemorate the society’s 100th anniversary.
Furthermore, the event saw the presentation of centenary commemorative souvenirs to President Wickremesinghe by the Vice President and senior members of the Moratuwa Buddhist Society.
Additionally, a portrait of the President painted by a student from Moratuwa College was presented, symbolising the society’s gratitude and respect.
In his address, President Wickremesinghe highlighted the pressing global challenges posed by climate change and technological advancements, particularly in the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
He stressed the need to align efforts to combat climate change with the teachings of Buddha and to explore the implications of AI through the lens of Buddhist philosophy.
The event was attended by eminent Buddhist monks, religious dignitaries, and a large gathering of devotees, signifying the profound significance of the occasion in the Buddhist community.
