With the Presidential Election on the horizon, understanding the perspectives of the country’s younger generation becomes crucial for shaping a fairer and more progressive society, since considering the views of those who will be most impacted by future policies is essential.
The Sunday Morning spoke to several youth to gain insights into what they believe should be the priorities for the incoming president, irrespective of who comes into power.
Nimuthu Siriwardana, 23, Colombo
Constitutional reforms are vital. The call to abolish or significantly reduce the powers of the executive presidency emerged during the 2021-2022 crisis. Past administrations proved that concentrating too much power in one person leads to misuse. Although the executive presidency has notable successes, like former President J.R. Jayewardene’s tenure as well as recent economic recoveries, we need a system with better checks and balances.
We need a comprehensive fundamental rights chapter, including environmental protection and reforms, to address the impact of the current crisis on middle-income families. Revising strict International Monetary Fund (IMF) conditions such as high taxes could offer relief.
The main issue with Sri Lanka’s political system is that we rarely have the best option – only a relatively better one. We often end up accepting a president who may have flaws simply because they are the least bad option available.
Economics is crucial – the ongoing crisis, exacerbated by the IMF agreement, heavily impacts middle-income families, while only the elite can cope. Many young people, myself included, struggle to progress professionally or financially due to the crisis. It is difficult to achieve personal goals and financial independence, forcing even undergraduates to work to support themselves.
The next leader must focus on bridging this gap. It may not be feasible to completely change the Debt Sustainability Analysis (DSA); at the very least, the strictest conditions, like extremely high taxes, should be reconsidered. Increasing the tax threshold could provide relief to families and providing job opportunities to youth is crucial.
There is much room for improvement in our education system, especially in the State university system. The courses offered are generally good, but job opportunities linked to these fields are limited. This drives many people to go abroad for better opportunities.
Getting into a State university is not easy; it requires significant sacrifice. People who make it through such a challenging academic journey deserve good remuneration and benefits. The Government must protect and retain this labour force. At the very least, if people leave, there should be a system to ensure that foreign remittances are utilised properly without corruption.
Bihansa Yenuli Jayawardena, 22, Kadawatha
Sri Lankans have long sugar-coated reality by claiming that we are a developing country. It is unfortunate that, despite the passage of many generations, we still use this same expression and will likely continue to do so. As a Gen Z living in Sri Lanka, the first thing that comes to mind when I think about what to expect from the next president – whoever that may be — is the need to minimise the negative impacts within the administrative system.
Since the economy must be strengthened through political power and growth, this change has to start from the top. Additionally, it is essential to update the education system, considering how demanding and outdated it is. There needs to be more alignment between the syllabus, textbooks, and assessments.
Traditional disciplines should be updated to include more contemporary subjects like fashion design, psychology, and e-sports management and to integrate augmented and virtual reality. In terms of the economy, Gen Z is concerned about job creation and fair treatment of employees. This involves improving the quality of higher education and career training while creating opportunities for meaningful employment. Overall, Gen Z is eager to have a president who will address these pressing concerns and build a suitable future for upcoming generations.
Y.R.D.S. Yapa Bandara, 22, Kegalle
We need a country with stable jobs where people can earn promotions based on their skills, experience, talent, and commitment. Right now, it’s often the case that those loyal to the ruling party receive jobs and promotions, even when there are more qualified people available. Corruption is everywhere, in every field. Even if the leaders change, the people in lower positions – who are often not qualified – remain the same.
This corruption exists at every level of the system, and it’s a significant problem that needs to be addressed. People often overlook this and focus instead on issues that are much harder to change. We also need jobs that pay fairly for the work we do, so we don’t feel the need to move abroad to earn a decent living. We need a leader who will clean up the system and help create the future we all hope for.
Senumi Kulathunga, 22, Kandy
From personal experience, I wish for better access to affordable medicines and flexible hospital facilities, especially since the State claims to provide free healthcare. I also hope that more attention is given to Sri Lanka’s natural resources. There are many small and medium-scale businesses, like those in agriculture, that could be developed. It is frustrating that we don’t use these resources to enrich our economy. This way, our country would no longer need to be unnecessarily indebted to other nations.
I need access to diverse career paths since almost everyone I know aims to leave the country for jobs and further studies. Does Sri Lanka really want such a significant brain drain? We need to open more career opportunities for all, regardless of gender. Overall, I hope the new president recognises the wants and needs of the people and does his best to make their daily lives comfortable and fulfilling.
Chanuthyaa Pussewala, 22, Galle
The education system needs a significant overhaul, moving away from an exam-centric approach towards practical, experience-based learning. Curricula should be diversified to include subjects that meet global demands.
Improving healthcare infrastructure is equally crucial, particularly by ensuring each patient has access to a single bed. Currently, there are long queues for surgeries even if the patient is on a priority list; this can be minimised by offering surgeries at an affordable price. Streamlining medicine imports is essential to maintain a steady supply.
Further, to tackle the employment crisis, it is necessary to find effective ways to increase both the quantity and quality of jobs. Young people should be encouraged to explore new opportunities rather than relying solely on Government employment. Economic reform should focus on reducing taxes on essential goods while increasing taxes on non-essential items to help ease the financial burden on the public.
Additionally, new policies must be implemented to reconstruct debt with a focus on anti-corruption. For a more equitable society, it is vital to implement robust anti-corruption measures, enact laws that provide better protection for women, and reduce the excessive perks currently given to ministers.
Hansa Sanduranga Ranasinghe, 27, Kadawatha
Firstly, we need to understand that Gen Z is unique in that they are the first to grow up immersed in the digital age, with the internet, smartphones, and social media as constants in their lives. As a result, they have developed a strong appreciation for diversity and inclusivity, expecting these values to be upheld in every aspect of society.
They prioritise flexibility, work-life balance, and finding meaningful work. They also have strong expectations for climate action and sustainability, having grown up with a deep awareness of issues like global warming and pollution. They want to see real commitment to sustainable practices, renewable energy, and stricter environmental regulations in both public policy and the workplace.
The Government needs to meet their expectations in education and accessibility. Gen Z is creative and innovative, and their expectations of employers often go beyond what many companies are willing to offer. This is a challenge that political leaders need to address. Equal opportunities and workplace rights are non-negotiable for them.
Social justice is a priority through progress on issues like racial and gender equality and LGBTQIA+ rights. They won’t accept the compromises that previous generations might have tolerated. They also demand freedom in the digital space and strongly believe in their online rights; any attempt to limit these rights will be seen as unacceptable.
Mental health and well-being are critical for Gen Z, who are often considered more vulnerable to stress and depression. Technology has created a distance in their relationships, even with close family and friends. There is a need for better mental health support and services to bridge these gaps.
Finally, Gen Z wants a voice in governance. They feel their issues have been largely ignored in the past, and there’s a sense that political leaders don’t fully understand or care about their challenges. For the next president to truly lead, they need to connect with the younger generation, understand their problems, and ensure they have a seat at the table.
Sayuri Wijesinghe, 23, Anuradhapura
A stable economy and reducing taxes are utopian concepts, so they are unlikely to happen. However, salaries could be raised to enable people to meet the rising cost of essentials.
Further, better job opportunities will keep Sri Lankans from moving abroad in search of jobs. Taking steps in relation to universities and schools and providing scholarships will ensure students remain in the country without going abroad for better opportunities.
The agricultural sector should be supported; if farmers receive sufficient support, we could revive the sector and not rely on other countries. Further, better hospital facilities are needed when it comes to Government hospitals.
In terms of education, students spend a significant amount of time studying, yet many are unable to gain admission to universities due to the current system. For those who wish to attend, the costs are often prohibitively high, making university education only feasible for some. Educational options need to be better advertised and adequately supported with proper guidance.
We should also explore more opportunities in the tourism sector. Despite abundant natural resources and numerous tourist attractions, Sri Lanka still needs to be competitive on the global tourism stage. I hope the next president will consider the potential for greater promotion in this area.
Moreover, the Government should be more transparent about the bills it passes, rather than enacting them in secret and leaving the public to find out later.
Youth Action Network Sri Lanka Programme Coordinator A.D.A. Ruchira Madushan
We need significant changes in education policy to enhance learning opportunities for students. Key improvements should include developing leadership and decision-making skills within schools.
Addressing substance abuse is also crucial, as students are often targeted by drug and alcohol dealers near schools. The enforcement of existing regulations, such as the National Authority on Tobacco and Alcohol (NATA) Act of 2006, which prohibits the sale of these substances within 100 metres of schools, needs to be strengthened.
Educational programmes focused on drug prevention and effective measures in schools are essential, along with training for school staff. Additionally, training programmes to develop students’ skills and talents can increase their motivation and reduce school dropout rates, while strengthening their decision-making abilities can improve their overall educational outcomes and confidence.
The next president should focus on updating the education system, both general and vocational education, according to the needs of young people and future opportunities. This includes training students in skills that match the labour market and providing opportunities for career development.
Incorporating international language training into the education system will also help students qualify for global job opportunities. Enhancing the physical and mental health of young people requires effective health initiatives. Youth health needs to be better-prioritised, partly due to insufficient youth involvement in policy development.
It’s vital to engage young people in creating and implementing policies that address their specific needs. Identifying and addressing the factors contributing to health issues among youth will lead to more effective, long-term improvements. Listening to their concerns, collaborating on solutions, and monitoring the impact of these measures are essential for progress.
International Youth Alliance for Peace Executive Director Thirukumar Premakumar
Sri Lanka’s Gen Z is deeply focused on education, technology, and its role in shaping the country’s future. They are seeking leaders who will make higher education more affordable and accessible, reduce the cost of living, and create more job opportunities by investing in both traditional and vocational training.
This is especially important in a country where access to quality education is uneven, and many young people feel unprepared for the demands of the modern workforce. Moreover, technology is a top priority for Gen Z in Sri Lanka.
They expect the next president to support the growth of digital infrastructure, promote innovation, and ensure strong cybersecurity. In a rapidly digitalising world, they want Sri Lanka to keep pace with and create opportunities for tech-driven entrepreneurship, which they see as vital for the country’s economic future.
Equally important is their desire to be actively involved in decision-making processes. Gen Z is not content with being passive observers – they want a meaningful role in shaping policies that affect their lives. They expect to see initiatives that genuinely engage youth in politics and governance, recognising their potential to drive positive change in Sri Lanka.