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– A special ceremony to distribute new computer systems to 100 Registrar officials serving in Divisional Secretariats was held at the Registrar General’s Department auditorium, as part of the government’s ‘One Registry’ program aimed at digitalizing civil registration services.

The event was held under the patronage of Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government, Professor Chandana Abeyratne, and Deputy Minister Ruwan Senarathne.The computer systems, donated by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the World Health Organization (WHO), were handed over to strengthen the efficiency of Registrar General’s Department units operating within Divisional Secretariats.

Speaking at the event, Minister Professor Chandana Abeyratne noted that despite development claims, a significant number of citizens still lack proper birth and marriage certificates. He said the government has identified the need to ensure these essential documents reach underserved communities.He further said that the “One Registry” initiative forms a key part of the government’s broader digital transformation agenda. While computer systems were symbolically distributed to officials from 25 institutions across 25 districts, he added that the program will be expanded to cover remaining divisions in due course.

Highlighting concerns over public perception, the Minister said that although digital systems are intended to improve efficiency, some citizens still believe manual processes were more effective. He urged officials, who have experience in both systems, to integrate the strengths of traditional methods with modern technology to deliver improved public service.

“We are living in an era of creating history. We must build a better society for future generations. Make full use of these facilities to serve the country more effectively,” he said.

Deputy Minister Ruwan Senarathne said the government is driving national development through three key pillars: digitalization, the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ program, and the ‘Praja Shakthi’ initiative. He noted that the public expects a modern and attitudinally transformed public service.

“As these are national assets funded by taxpayers, they must be used responsibly and securely to achieve the vision of a prosperous country and a better life for all,” he said.

Azusa Kubota, Resident Representative of UNDP Sri Lanka, said the initiative goes beyond equipment provision and represents a step toward meaningful digital transformation.

She emphasized that a strong Digital Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) system is essential for good governance, ensuring recognition of every individual and enabling reliable data for policymaking.

“This is not just paperwork; it is about giving dignity to every life in Sri Lanka,” she said.

The ceremony was attended by Registrar General S. Jaladeepan, WHO Representative to Sri Lanka Rajesh Pandav, ministry secretaries, additional district registrars, and other departmental officials.