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.

Revitalizing Agriculture through Organic Corn Cultivation and Youth Engagement

Executive Summary

This report presents a successful pilot project that revitalized corn cultivation in Batticaloa District, Sri Lanka. The project empowered local farmers, particularly those involved in the historical Youth Agriculture Scheme (YAS) disrupted by the civil war. By distributing free corn seeds, identifying underutilized land, and implementing improved practices, the project demonstrably increased yields and farmer experience. This report outlines recommendations to capitalize on this success and establish Batticaloa as a leading producer of organic corn and value-added products.