Increasing National Productivity

Our nation stands at a pivotal moment. Despite meaningful strides in governance and efforts to curb corruption and inefficiency, we face significant economic challenges that demand collective action. By coming together, we can forge a path toward recovery and resilience, especially as we approach the looming peak of debt repayments in 2028. This is not just a challenge but an opportunity to unite our skills, expertise, and ideas to drive sustainable economic growth. Together, we can secure a future that is greener and more prosperous for generations to come. This is your chance to contribute ideas and be part of a transformative movement toward increased national productivity.

Why This Matters:

Promoting productivity is a shared responsibility—whether we live within our borders or abroad. Each of us has a role to play, whether by driving reforms, supporting policy changes, or advocating for strategies that channel our collective efforts in the right direction.

Here are just a few powerful steps we can take:

1. Transforming Higher Education

Equip graduates with employable skills through university programs tailored to meet local and global market demands. While free programmes may not be feasible, a deferred repayment loan system can empower students without burdening them upfront. Universities must also have the autonomy to modernise their curricula, enabling quicker adaptation to market needs while adhering to national ethics.

Moreover, allocating 25% of university admissions to international students would generate revenue and elevate our institutions on the global stage. Private universities should contribute by clearly advertising their admission capacities. To ensure accountability, universities—both public and private—must retrain graduates free of charge if they remain unemployed for more than six months post-graduation.

2. Building Iconic National Brands

Our nation boasts globally prized products like tea, cinnamon, pepper, and herbs. Let’s elevate these into world-class brands through rigorous quality standards and producer education. Strict measures—such as banning inferior imports for blending—must be enforced to protect our brand integrity. By safeguarding our exports, we ensure long-term success on the global stage.

3. Job Training & Employment Initiatives

Imagine a network of job centres registering unemployed youth and equipping them with short-term training programmes alongside stipends. These centres can follow an apprenticeship model, where industries take on social responsibility by providing hands-on training. This approach addresses unemployment and creates a workforce ready to meet market demands.

4. Fostering Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Innovation is the key to producing globally competitive products. Establishing a non-profit research institution dedicated to supporting innovators would be a game-changer. Self-funded by taking a small share (e.g., 30%) of profits from patented products, this institution could mentor entrepreneurs while minimising personal financial burdens. Strictly merit-based management and expert mentorship would ensure its effectiveness.

5. Championing Sustainable Energy

Affordable, sustainable energy solutions—hydro, solar, wind, and wave—can make our nation more attractive to investors while preserving the environment. Through national and private partnerships, we can advance such projects with clear policies: no tax holidays and a mandate that 90% of staff in these initiatives must be locals. Sustainable energy boosts income and positions us as a leader in environmental responsibility.

6. National English Proficiency Programmes

To compete globally, English-language proficiency is essential. Building on existing voluntary programmes like the Solar Villages SDG Community initiative, the government can scale this into a nationwide effort. Volunteer teachers and minimal public expenditure could make this achievable in schools and community centres, unlocking new opportunities for our citizens.

These examples are just the beginning. The efficiency of public services and government institutions must also improve—an area requiring further exploration and debate.

Your Voice Matters

Together, we have the strength, knowledge, and determination of the top ranks of global expertise and leadership. Let us unite to achieve a brighter, more prosperous tomorrow.

Your participation is our strength. Let’s lead the way forward.

Chula Goonasekera
, on behalf of LEADS forum
admin@srilankaleads.com