Business

Developing plans and policies without young people is a futile exercise: UNICEF Sri Lanka

Published

3 years ago

2022/09/28

Sahan Weerasooriya

Series of crises SL has faced have dealt a heavy blow

Reviving presents SL with an opportunity to address its long-running challenges

by Sanath Nanayakkare

Young people are not only the present but also the future; developing plans and policies without them is a futile exercise, they need to be the front and centre of the discussions because they are the ones with fresh ideas and the most at stake, in terms of the sustainability of the planet and the tourism sector, Christian Skoog, Representative, UNICEF Sri Lanka said in Colombo yesterday.

“Here in Sri Lanka, we have a gift. That gift is the 4.4m young people. The contribution young people can make to the tourism sector is immense. But to harness their energy and ideas, there is a need to provide them the skills, training and opportunities to thrive within a dynamic and fast-growing industry,” he said.

“Across the world it is young people who are the hungriest for travel. They are seeking new experiences and looking to broaden their horizons. They serve not only as your potential clientele, they are also your best marketers through tools like social media. Indeed, Sri Lanka has been named one of the world’s most instagramable locations,”

“Rarely has there been such an urgent moment for us to ensure the energy and enthusiasm of young people to contribute to Sri Lanka’s sustainable development is given expression. And rarely has there been such an opportune moment to discuss building back better in the context of sustainable tourism.

Skoog made these points at an event hosted by the Chamber of Tourism and Industry held to mark the World Tourism Day.

Further speaking he said:

“Today we consider how to sustainably revive a sector upon which the livelihoods of so many people depend and we discuss how we can effectively respond to the challenges that confront us. When I learned in late 2020 that I would be appointed to serve as UNICEF Rep in Sri Lanka, I felt invigorated by the prospect of coming. Of course, much of that vigour was related to the work I expected to undertake here. But I confess that part of my excitement came from listening to my friends saying it is “paradise” and “best vacation spot”. Whenever I have had the opportunity to explore Sri Lanka since, I have been captivated by the landscapes, the biodiversity, the food, and the warmth of the people I meet across this island. But of course, I also arrived at a time of profound economic hardship for so many. I know those impacts have been felt deeply across the tourism sector. Many of you have struggled valiantly to keep your businesses running, and to maintain decent livelihoods for workers across the sector: from hoteliers to taxi drivers to souvenir sellers, to tour guides, to wait staff.”

“Sri Lanka’s tourism sector has contended with a succession of adverse events in the past 3 years: 1) The devastating terrorist attacks of Easter 2019 reduced arrivals by 18%. 2) COVID-19 crisis shut borders & paralysed air travel. 3) Conflict in Ukraine entirely cut a tourism market that until recently represented 25% of foreign arrivals. And, of course, economic crisis continues to pose an array of challenges. Reviving tourism in a manner that is sustainable and inclusive is one of the key tools to help us navigate through this crisis.”

“I would like to reiterate the importance of sustainable tourism in Sri Lanka, to touch upon the relationship between sustainable tourism and the SDGs, and mention the role young people can play as we re-think tourism in Sri Lanka.”

“Tourism is a critical component of the economy; it is Sri Lanka’s 3rd-largest source of foreign exchange, and contributed about 5% of GDP, pre-COVID. Tourism is also a major employer of people across the island. In fact, globally, tourism employs one in every ten people.”

“Let’s be under no illusions. The series of crises SL has faced have dealt a heavy blow. But the task we now face in reviving the sector also presents us with an opportunity to address some its long-running challenges.”

“These include over-tourism and other unsustainable practices; contributions to Climate Change; pollution; a loss of biodiversity; and a lack of inclusion. As an island nation with extraordinary biodiversity, Sri Lanka is particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of unsustainable tourism.”

“Indeed, when tourism arrivals plunged during the pandemic, many destinations took the opportunity to reflect on the toll irresponsible or unsustainable practices had on their ecologies; and they resolved to do this differently. We too, should resolve to do things differently.”

“As tourism returns, the demand for ethical and sustainable products and experiences continues to rise. We can no longer consider sustainable tourism offerings as a choice. Costs incurred in adopting practices that benefit the environment and community, need to be looked at as investments which provide the industry with an advantage.”

“The tourism sector, as a whole, needs to focus on marketing Sri Lanka as not only a desirable destination because of its natural beauty, culture and heritage, but also differentiating it as a sustainable destination.”

“I believe that harnessing tourism’s positive contribution to sustainable development and the mitigation of the sector’s adverse effects calls for strong partnerships and decisive action by all tourism stakeholders.”

“Events like this give us an opportunity to build partnerships: to reflect, and to share ideas and strategies. Creating true partnerships of both public and private sector operators in the country is key to our ability to revive the sector and develop sustainable tourism as a tool for a better future for Sri Lanka.”

“With the right safeguards in place, tourism can provide decent jobs, particularly for young people, it can inspire us to protect life on land and life below water, it can help build resilient, gender-equal, inclusive economies and societies that work for everyone. And it can help Sri Lanka thrive,” the UNICEF representative said.

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Related Topics:Christian Skoog Unicef Sri Lanka

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“We Are Building a Stable, Transparent and Resilient Sri Lanka Ready for Sustainable Investment Partnerships” – PM

Published

16 hours ago

2026/02/15

Priyan

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya addressed members of the Chief Executives Organization (CEO) during a session held on Thursday [3 February 2026] at the Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo, as part of CEO’s Pearl of the Indian Ocean: Sri Lanka programme.

The Chief Executives Organization is a global network of business leaders representing diverse industries across more than 60 countries. The visiting delegation comprised leading entrepreneurs and executives exploring Sri Lanka’s economic prospects, investment climate, and development trajectory.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister emphasized that Sri Lanka’s reform agenda is anchored in structural transformation, transparency, and inclusive growth.

“We are committed not only to ensuring equitable access to education, but equitable access to quality education. Our reforms are designed to create flexible pathways for young people beyond general education and to build a skilled and adaptable workforce for the future.”

She highlighted that the Government is undertaking a fundamental pedagogical shift towards a more student-focused, less examination-driven system as part of a broader national transformation.

Reflecting on Sri Lanka’s recent political transition, the Prime Minister stated:

“The people gave us a mandate to restore accountability, strengthen democratic governance, and ensure that opportunity is not determined by patronage or privilege, but by fairness and merit. Sri Lanka is stabilizing. We have recorded positive growth, restored confidence in key sectors, and are committed to sustaining this momentum. But our objective is not short-term recovery it is long-term resilience.”

Addressing governance reforms aimed at improving the investment climate, she said:

“We are aligning our legislative and regulatory frameworks with international standards to provide predictability, investor protection, and institutional transparency. Sustainable investment requires trust, and trust requires reform.”

Turning to the recent impact of Cyclone Ditwa, which affected all 25 districts of the country, the Prime Minister underscored the urgency of climate resilience.

“Climate change is not a distant threat. It is a lived reality for our people. We are rebuilding not simply to recover, but to build resilience, strengthen disaster mitigation systems, and protect vulnerable communities.”

Inviting CEO members to consider Sri Lanka as a strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific region, she highlighted opportunities in value-added mineral exports, logistics and shipping, agro-processing, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, and innovation-driven sectors.

“We are not looking for speculative gains. We are seeking long-term partners who share our commitment to transparency, sustainability, and inclusive development.”

She further emphasized collaboration in education, research, vocational training, and innovation as essential pillars for sustained economic growth.

Concluding her address, the Prime Minister expressed appreciation to the Chief Executives Organization for selecting Sri Lanka as part of its 2026 programme and reaffirmed the Government’s readiness to engage constructively with responsible global investors.

The event was attended by the Governor of the Western Province, Hanif Yusoof, and other distinguished guests.

[Prime Minister’s Media Division]

Business

High Commissioner in Pakistan urges high level business visit to Colombo

Published

17 hours ago

2026/02/15

Thilina Walpola

High Commissioner Senevirathne and Dr. Munir at meeting

The High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Pakistan, Rear Admiral Fred Senevirathne, met Dr. Zeelaf Munir, Chairperson of the Pakistan Business Council (PBC), in Karachi on Feb. 6 and urged a high level visit of Pakistani business people to Sri Lanka, a news release from the High Commission said.

Dr. Munir, who also serves as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of English Biscuit Manufacturers (EBM), leads Pakistan’s premier business policy advocacy body, which plays a key role in promoting a conducive business environment, export growth, and industrial development.

The High Commissioner who was warmly received by Dr. Munir at her office briefed her on the current economic and political landscape in Sri Lanka, highlighting the country’s improving economic outlook, enhanced political stability, and a favourable environment for foreign investment, the release said.

He also outlined the policy priorities of the new Government, with particular emphasis on ongoing economic reforms, investment-friendly initiatives, and opportunities to further strengthen bilateral economic and trade cooperation between Sri Lanka and Pakistan, it said.

He invited Dr. Munir to consider leading a delegation of prominent business leaders and investors to Sri Lanka, with a view to engaging with Sri Lankan counterparts and exploring potential investment opportunities and avenues for collaboration across key sectors.

The meeting was facilitated by. Honorary Consul of Sri Lanka in Hyderabad, Mehmood Mandviwalla, who was also present. Minister and Head of Chancery of the Sri Lanka High Commission in Islamabad, Christy Ruban, and Consul General of Sri Lanka in Karachi, Sanjeewa Pattiwila also participated at the meeting.

Business

IRONMAN 70.3 Colombo Returns, Kicks Off #ActiveColombo City Transformation

Published

17 hours ago

2026/02/15

Thilina Walpola

All partners at the Ironman 70.3 Colombo Launch with Vraîe Cally Balthazaar, Mayor of Colombo at the event held last Wednesaday at Shangri-La.

Officials from the Western Provincial Council, Colombo Municipal Council, and event organisers marked the official launch of IRONMAN 70.3 Colombo – Presented by Port City Colombo today at Shangri-La Colombo, the Host Hotel, signalling the return of Sri Lanka’s premier endurance event and the start of the long-term #ActiveColombo initiative.

Scheduled from 19–22 February 2026, the world-class triathlon will anchor #ActiveColombo Week, combining international competition with a city-wide celebration of sport, health, and urban vitality. Highlights include the KAYA Colombo – Active Lifestyle & International Expo (19–21 Feb), the family-focused IRONKIDS Colombo (21 Feb), and the IRONMAN 70.3 Colombo triathlon (22 Feb), featuring swim, bike, and run events at Port City Colombo, the Official Venue Partner.

The event is set to welcome nearly 1,000 athletes from over 49 countries, many visiting Sri Lanka for the first time, bringing international media attention and significant economic impact across hospitality, aviation, retail, and transport. As part of the globally recognised IRONMAN® circuit, Colombo now joins iconic host cities such as Sydney, Nice, and Muscat, reinforcing its position as South Asia’s emerging endurance sports hub.

“IRONMAN 70.3 Colombo embodies the spirit of resilience and excellence,” said Rajan Thananayagam, Director of Serendib Multisport (Pvt) Ltd. “This event puts Sri Lanka on the world stage and showcases Colombo as a vibrant, welcoming destination for athletes and their families.”

The launch also introduced #ActiveColombo, a long-term initiative aimed at transforming Colombo into South Asia’s leading Active City. The programme focuses on activating everyday urban spaces through parks, waterfronts, beaches, clean streets, shaded corridors, and safe environments that encourage walking, cycling, yoga, and other outdoor activities.

“Through #ActiveColombo, we aim to inspire a more active generation while strengthening Colombo’s appeal as a globally competitive capital,” said Hanif Yusoof, Governor of the Western Province. Mayor Vraîe Cally Balthazaar added that the initiative symbolises inclusive growth, promoting healthier streets, greener corridors, and vibrant public spaces for residents and visitors alike.

With signature policies such as the “Every Active Street is a Shaded Street” Shade the Road initiative, Colombo aims to combine urban health, economic growth, and international sports tourism. Experts say cities that invest in active lifestyles see 10–20% reductions in long-term healthcare costs, safer streets, and higher visitor spending.

By linking IRONMAN 70.3 Colombo with #ActiveColombo, organisers hope to position the city as a healthier home for citizens, a premier destination for high-value tourists, and a credible host for global sporting and lifestyle events, cementing Colombo’s reputation as South Asia’s Active Capital.