Empowering Youth for Climate-Resilient Agriculture Development in Sri Lanka

Introduction

 Sri Lanka stands at a critical juncture, facing simultaneous challenges of economic constraints, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the looming threats posed by climate change. With over 30% of its population experiencing food insecurity and significant segments facing unemployment and underemployment, the urgency to address these issues cannot be overstated. Moreover, Sri Lanka ranks as the world's 30th most climate-impacted nation, with the effects of climate change directly impacting the livelihoods of the majority of its population, particularly the youth who reside in coastal and low-lying areas. Furthermore, disparities in access to quality education, healthcare, and housing exacerbate the vulnerabilities faced by underprivileged communities, hindering their socio-economic advancement.

13 Obstacles Hinder the Journey of Women Entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka

Despite significant progress in recent years, women entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka still face a multitude of challenges that hinder their success. While their contributions to the economy are undeniable, these obstacles create an uneven playing field, limiting their growth and impact. Understanding these challenges is crucial to advocating for their needs and fostering an environment conducive to their success.

Navigating Complexities: 13 Problems Women Entrepreneurs Face

1. Lack of Education:

While Sri Lanka boasts a high female literacy rate of 91.4% according to the World Bank, this statistic presents a limited picture. Digging deeper reveals significant disparities in educational attainment, particularly in rural areas and low-income communities. A 2021 report by the IPS Sri Lanka highlights that girls from these backgrounds are more likely to drop out of school at a young age, often due to financial constraints or societal pressures to contribute to household chores. This lack of access to quality education restricts their ability to acquire essential literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking skills, which are crucial for navigating the complexities of starting and managing a business.

Reflecting on the Journey of Sri Lanka's Tourism Sector

It's truly remarkable to witness the flourishing state of Sri Lanka's tourism industry, a testament to our collective dedication and hard work over the years. As I look back on the challenges we faced and the strides we've made, I am reminded of the pivotal role played by former Minister of Tourism Development, Wildlife, and Christian Religious Affairs, John Amaratunga.

During a time when tourism in Sri Lanka was grappling with various obstacles, Minister Amaratunga's visionary leadership brought about significant changes. One of his first initiatives was the establishment of a Tourism Advisory Council, comprising esteemed industry stakeholders, including myself. Together, we embarked on a mission to realize the government's ambitious goals for the tourism sector.

In the aftermath of the tragic Easter attacks, which dealt a severe blow to our industry, our resolve was tested like never before. However, undeterred by adversity, we rallied together to chart a path towards recovery. I had the privilege of collaborating with Minister Amaratunga and a team of eminent advisors to craft strategic reports aimed at reviving tourist arrivals and bolstering the supply of skilled labor.

UGC's Promotion of Senior Lecturers to Professors at EUSL Signals Hope for Regional Development

In a significant move that marks a milestone in the academic landscape of Sri Lanka, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has recently elevated several senior lecturers to the esteemed position of professors within various sectors of the Eastern University of Sri Lanka (EUSL). This historic development, a first in my lifetime, fills me with immense pride as an alumna of this institution. It not only recognizes the dedication and expertise of these educators but also holds the promise of catalyzing much-needed progress in a region that has grappled with both human and natural disasters for decades.

University professors are integral to education, guiding students in their chosen fields and fostering personal and professional growth. However, their value is often overshadowed by financial metrics, neglecting the significance of teaching and mentorship. Professors influence students' aspirations and must possess diverse skills, including technological proficiency and emotional intelligence. Amidst increasing diversity and challenges in funding, professors face the responsibility of balancing traditional academic values with external pressures for accountability. Collaboration between professors and institutions is crucial to enhance the quality of university education and ensure its contribution to societal advancement.

Navigating Sri Lanka's Tourism Revival: Strategies for Sustainable Growth

Introduction

Sri Lanka's ambitious aspirations for economic recovery have found a focal point in its burgeoning tourism sector. Buoyed by recent successes in bolstering tourist inflows and revenue, the island nation is poised to reclaim its status as a premier destination. Despite enduring setbacks from tragic events like the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings and the COVID-19 pandemic, Sri Lanka's tourism resilience shines through, with 2023 witnessing a remarkable upsurge in tourist arrivals, translating into nearly US Dollar 2 billion in earnings. This positive trajectory offers a glimmer of hope, rekindling optimism for a sector that once boasted a record US Dollar 4.4 billion in revenue back in 2018.

Enhancing Sri Lanka's Traditional Health Tourism: A Data-Driven Approach

Introduction 

Sri Lanka is renowned for its traditional healthcare practices rooted in Ayurveda, indigenous medicine, and holistic healing methods. With the growing global interest in alternative medicine and wellness tourism, there is a significant opportunity for Sri Lanka to capitalize on its rich cultural heritage and natural resources to develop its health tourism sector. This article aims to explore the potential for the development of health tourism in Sri Lanka through an evidence-based approach, utilizing existing statistical data and information.

Current State of Health Tourism in Sri Lanka

According to data from the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), the country has seen a steady increase in tourist arrivals over the past decade, with a significant portion seeking wellness and healthcare services.

In 2022, Sri Lanka welcomed over 1.5 million tourists, with a notable rise in wellness tourists seeking traditional healing practices.

The government's initiatives to promote health tourism, such as the establishment of wellness centers and the certification of Ayurveda practitioners, have contributed to the sector's growth.