Abstract:

Indigenous communities around the world are often identified as marginalised groups. Those living in remote areas are particularly seen as digitally disconnected with little or no access to information and communication technologies (ICT) and the digital universe. Research has shown that ICT can enhance the overall quality of life for people living in isolated communities. This include facilitating income generation activities and helping to preserve cultural identities of indigenous communities. For the Veddha community, the opportunities offered by ICT could be significant, because indigenous tourism is one of their main income streams. In the context of ICT and Sri Lankan indigenous communities, the UN SDG #8, and SDG#10 are particularly salient. Therefore, the current research investigate how ICT can facilitate growth in indigenous cultural tourism (SDG #8) and in turn, reduce income inequality (SDG#10) between the minority indigenous communities and the majority, in Sri Lanka. In an exploratory study, data collected using qualitative methods will be analysed to answer two research questions. Research findings could contribute to promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth and reduce inequality within Sri Lanka and it could inform the wider international community, both academic and non-academic.

Please choose your submission type: Developmental Paper

Primary Track: Innovation

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Dr. Hemamali Tennakoon Mudiyanselage