SLNA moots Sri Lanka's first National Policy on Archives and Records Management

UPDATE(15.08.2023): Acceptance of submissions for the draft National Policy on Archives and Records Management has been closed.

UPDATE(08.08.2023): On popular demand, the deadline for accepting written submissions has been extended till 14.08.2023.

Submissions will be accepted between 12 midnight on 21.07.2023 and 12 midnight on 07.08.2023.

Public Hearings will be held on 21.08.2023 (Jaffna), 22.08.2023 (Kandy) and 25.08.2023 (Colombo), for which those who provided written submissions will be selected for participation.

Introduction

The National Archives is pleased to announce the call for public submissions on the draft National Policy on Archives and Records Management. As part of our commitment to preserving the rich tapestry of our history, we invite stakeholders, experts, and the public at large to contribute their valuable insights and recommendations to shape this essential policy.

The National Policy on Archives and Records Management aims to provide direction and an appropriate framework for action that will inform and shape the management, preservation, and accessibility of our nation's archival records. It recognises the significance of safeguarding our collective memory and embracing technological advancements to ensure that future generations can access and learn from our shared history.

Key Areas of Focus:

● Access and Preservation: Striking the delicate balance between providing public access to archives and records, safeguarding sensitive information, and ensuring the longevity of material in all formats.

● Digital Records Management: Developing strategies and adopting technologies to manage and preserve digital records and assets effectively.

● Collaboration and Partnerships: Fostering cooperation with relevant institutions and stakeholders to enhance archives management practices.

The success of this policy relies on the collective knowledge of our diverse communities. Therefore, we encourage researchers, archivists, records managers, and all citizens interested in and/or impacted by record-keeping practices in the public and private sectors to participate in this unique opportunity to shape the future of archives and records management in our country.

How to Participate:

To contribute to the shaping of this vital policy, all interested parties can download the draft policy and submit comments through an online form or hard copy of Submission Format (see links above). A hard copy can also be obtained by visiting our head office in Colombo or the branch office in Kandy. The submission period will remain open until 07.08.2023 and will be followed by public hearings on 21.08.2023 (Jaffna), 22.08.2023 (Kandy) and 25.08.2023 (Colombo), for which those who provided written submissions will be selected for participation.

The National Archives assures the public that all submissions will be reviewed during the policy formulation process.

Draft National Policy on Archives and Records Management - English

Draft National Policy on Archives and Records Management - Sinhala

Draft National Policy on Archives and Records Management - Tamil

Submission Format