According to the Ministry of Digital Economy, the initiative follows a Cabinet Committee directive aimed at ensuring continuity and efficiency of public services amid ongoing energy challenges.
The Cabinet Committee, chaired by the Prime Minister, had instructed the Ministry of Digital Economy to explore remote working arrangements in consultation with the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government.
Officials said the decision also comes in the context of global economic pressures and energy supply challenges affecting Sri Lanka since February 28, 2026.
The ministry has published the guidelines in all three languages, available at https://mode.gov.lk/docs/guidelines Outlining approved procedures for conducting official work remotely using digital platforms.
The document states that under the Electronic Transactions Act No. 19 of 2006, electronically created and approved government documents are legally valid. It also recognizes scanned signatures, digital signatures, and approvals issued via official government email as authentic.
The government’s official video conferencing platform, https://meet.gov.lk has been recommended as the primary tool for official communication, while commercial platforms may be used temporarily where necessary.
Heads of institutions have been instructed to enhance digital skills among staff while ensuring the security of official information. The initiative is aligned with the government’s Digital Economy Blueprint.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Public Administration has issued Circular No. 02/2026 dated April 23, directing Secretaries of Ministries, Provincial Chief Secretaries, and Heads of Departments to disseminate and implement the guidelines.
The Presidential Secretariat, the Ministry of Public Administration, and the Ministry of Digital Economy are jointly coordinating efforts to integrate these practices across the public sector, the ministry added.
