• Requires reforms to remove existing stigma & align with int’l standards

New mechanisms should be introduced to enhance adult education in Sri Lanka by moving away from the traditional knowledge-based system to those that evolve with advancing technology, according to human resource academic Prof. Sagara Chandrasekara.  

Speaking at a forum organised by The Coalition for Educational Development, Prof. Chandrasekara highlighted the challenges surrounding adult learning in the country. He noted that certain stigmas prevent the full development of adult education. Prof. Chandrasekara stated that many institutions created to promote adult learning fail to achieve their intended objectives. “These institutions still rely heavily on the traditional education system, which limits the opportunities for adults to develop the relevant skills,” he explained.  

He emphasised the need to integrate new technological tools into the adult learning process. According to him, technology can transform adult education by making it more effective and accessible. “A new mechanism should be introduced to link technology with adult education. This will strengthen the capacities of institutions promoting adult learning,” Prof. Chandrasekara said.  

Furthermore, he stressed that adult education in Sri Lanka has been misunderstood and misused. “The concept of adult education is maltreated in Sri Lanka. Our system has not kept up with new trends in education, such as online learning and modern assessment methods,” he added. Prof. Chandrasekara called for reforms to remove the existing stigmas and make adult education more aligned with modern global standards. He stated that a forward-thinking approach is crucial for Sri Lanka to meet the learning-related needs of adults and to improve the skills of the workforce.