Q: In your view, has the aragalaya led to a united Sri Lanka – and if so, is this unity sustainable?
A: The aragalaya has led to a united Sri Lanka. The unity displayed – people protesting harmoniously, eating together, celebrating religious occasions – is something the world can learn from.
In my opinion, the unity of all Sri Lankans will be maintained.

Q: How do you view the aragalaya – and how do you think the voices of the youth should be heard?
A: The aragalaya is a great initiative of peaceful protests never seen before in Sri Lanka. It is the first time the country has taken a united stance as one nation demanding good governance and justice. It is great to see people of all religions, races and ages coming together to stand for one cause.
The aragalaya has been very successful; and in my view, it is needed to make sure our country gets back on track for a brighter future. The aragalaya is one opportunity for the youth to voice their opinions and they should be heard as they’re the future.

Q: As far as our education system goes, what are the pros and cons?
A: The pros are the high rate of literacy, the present emphasis on education in the English language and free education to students in government schools.
The cons are the lack of opportunities for higher education, low degree of results and limited streams of study for higher education.

Q: Do you see yourself remaining in Sri Lanka – or returning to Sri Lanka – or do you think it’s best to migrate?
A: I hope to go abroad to pursue higher studies. After I qualify and gain experience, I’ll return to serve my motherland. In my opinion, it is the right thing to do and a thought everyone should consider.

MESSAGE TO THE YOUTH
No matter what you achieve in life, be it the smallest of achievements or the greatest, remember to be humble, honest and a person of integrity.

SRI LANKA: FIVE BURNING ISSUES
Prevailing economic situation
Absence or unreasonable price of food
Increased incidents of murder, child abuse and abduction
Several postponements of the O and A-Levels and scholarship exams
Fuel crisis

ROLE MODEL
My mother – She has shown me that no matter how many challenges I face in life, to believe in myself and be courageous.

SUMMARY
The aragalaya is a peaceful protest mainly by youth never seen before in Sri Lanka and the world, for good governance and justice. It is a platform for the youth to voice their opinions and has brought about unity of all religions and races by standing for one common goal. This unity will be maintained.
With the disruptions to the education system, studying abroad is the most prudent option but I will return to serve my motherland. Free education and the emphasis given to English will create more opportunities for employment. Unfortunately, the numbers to enter universities are restricted and the streams of education available are limited.