Youth empowerment in Sri Lanka is a crucial focus area for the government, civil society organizations, and various stakeholders. Empowering young people involves providing the knowledge, skills, resources, and opportunities necessary to participate actively in society, make informed decisions, and contribute to the country’s development.
Enhancing access to quality education and skill development programs is vital for youth. Sri Lanka has invested in improving the educational system, promoting technical and vocational education, and providing training opportunities to develop relevant skills for employment and entrepreneurship.
We facilitate youth employment and entrepreneurship through partnership networks is essential for economic empowerment. The government, International donor agencies, and diaspora community network have implemented initiatives to create employment opportunities, promote youth-led startups, and provide financial support and mentorship for aspiring entrepreneurs.
As a community social services organization, we encourage youth participation in decision-making processes, and civic engagement is crucial for their empowerment. Sri Lanka has established youth councils, forums, and platforms where young people can voice their opinions, contribute to policy development, and engage in community development activities.
Promoting leadership skills and capacity building among young people is a crucial empowerment aspect. Training programs, workshops, and mentoring initiatives are organized to develop the youth’s leadership capabilities, communication skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
Ensuring the health and well-being of young people is integral to their empowerment. Sri Lanka has focused on providing access to quality healthcare, including sexual and reproductive health services, mental health support, and substance abuse prevention programs tailored to the needs of youth.
Addressing gender disparities and promoting gender equality is essential for empowering young women and ensuring equal opportunities. Sri Lanka has implemented policies and programs to encourage women’s participation in education, employment, and leadership roles and combat gender-based violence and discrimination.
Enhancing digital literacy and access to ICT is critical for youth empowerment in the digital era. Initiatives have been undertaken to improve digital infrastructure, provide training in digital skills, and promote digital entrepreneurship and innovation among young people.
Preserving and promoting Sri Lanka’s diverse cultural heritage and traditions while empowering young people is essential. Cultural programs, festivals, and youth-led initiatives are organized to foster a sense of pride in cultural identity and encourage active participation in artistic, sports, and recreational activities.
Like many other countries, Sri Lanka faces various challenges and issues that impact its youth population. Some of the key youth issues in Sri Lanka include:
High youth unemployment rates are a significant concern in Sri Lanka. Many young people need help finding suitable job opportunities, particularly those with limited skills and qualifications. The gap between the skills possessed by youth and the demands of the job market contributes to this issue.
Disparities in access to quality education persist in Sri Lanka. Rural and marginalized communities often have limited access to quality schools, resources, and qualified teachers. This inequality in educational opportunities hampers the prospects and empowerment of young people.
Sri Lanka experiences a “brain drain” phenomenon where highly skilled and educated young people migrate to seek better opportunities abroad. The loss of talented individuals deprives the country of their potential contributions and hinders overall development.
Mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and stress, are increasingly prevalent among Sri Lankan youth. Academic pressure, societal expectations, and social media influence can contribute to mental health challenges.
Empowering youth in Sri Lanka requires collaborative partnerships between the government, civil society organizations, educational institutions, the private sector, and youth. By investing in their education, employment opportunities, leadership development, health, and well-being, Sri Lanka can harness the potential of its young population to drive sustainable growth and contribute to a prosperous future.
