Sri Lanka: Galle Diocese Hosts Workshop on Human Values in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

The Diocese of Galle in southern Sri Lanka organized a one-day workshop titled “Rediscovering Humanity in the Age of AI” on June 6, bringing together young people, clergy, and religious to reflect on the opportunities and challenges posed by artificial intelligence.

The program was held at the parish hall of Queen of the Holy Rosary Cathedral in Galle, a coastal city about 120 kilometers south of Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital. It was organized by the Apostolate for Social Communications of the Diocese of Galle for participants from the country’s Southern Province.

Bishop Raymond Wickramasinghe of Galle inaugurated the workshop, emphasizing the importance of preserving human values in a rapidly changing technological landscape.

“Even though artificial intelligence can think logically, it cannot understand human emotions and empathy, which are unique to human beings,” the bishop said. “AI lacks the conscience that draws our lives closer to God. We must first strengthen our conscience, values, and humanity, and then use AI for the good of society.”

The workshop featured presentations by Fr. Shanil Jayawardena OMI, director of the Mazenod Youth Ministry, and lawyer and social activist Tharushi Dilhara.

Fr. Jayawardena led discussions on social media and digital communication, encouraging participants to reflect on how they present themselves online and whether their digital presence reflects Christian values.

He highlighted the potential of social media as a tool for evangelization and citizen journalism, enabling individuals to reach audiences far beyond their immediate communities.

Addressing concerns about artificial intelligence, he urged young people to engage critically with emerging technologies and support efforts to ensure that AI serves humanity rather than becoming a tool for exploitation or harm.

Lawyer Dilhara focused on the legal and ethical dimensions of online engagement. She stressed the importance of protecting personal privacy, using social media responsibly, and understanding the legal remedies available to victims of cybercrime in Sri Lanka.

She also provided participants with information on the country’s cyber laws and the institutions responsible for addressing online offenses.

The workshop was organized under the leadership of Fr. Nimesh Perera, director of Social Communications for the Diocese of Galle. Participants included youth from across southern Sri Lanka, along with priests, religious, and lay leaders.

Organizers said the program aimed to help young Catholics navigate the digital age while remaining grounded in faith, ethics, and human dignity.