Compiled by Nicola Jayasundera

TENACITY AMID CHALLENGES

Priscilla Rambukkange delves into the strengths that uphold the nation

Q: What’s the good, the bad and the ugly in Sri Lanka, in your view?

A: From my point of view, Sri Lanka shines in many areas – one of the most notable being education.

Even amid the COVID-19 pandemic and an islandwide lockdown, the education sector did not falter. It adapted to online platforms within a short period of time with minimal disruption. Even today, schools and universities continue to function despite certain setbacks; they operate by providing essential services and support to the student population.

On the downside however, there’s evidently an unending list of challenges with corruption and financial mismanagement being ranked at the top.

These issues are deeply rooted within the system and are the primary cause for the downfall of Sri Lanka’s public sector, resulting in everything from minor incidents of corruption to large-scale deceit.

The ugly side of Sri Lanka includes the rise of drug trafficking, nepotism and other criminal activities that continue to tarnish the country’s image.

Q: And what are the challenges facing the nation today?

A: The major challenges facing the country include economic instability, high inflation and youth unemployment.

In addition to these issues, brain drain, the lack of coherent national policies, limited vocational opportunities and inadequate sports development are a few other challenges that Sri Lanka faces.

Q: Do you believe that Sri Lanka will be united one day – and if so, why?

A: I don’t believe that Sri Lanka is divided, despite having witnessed turmoil, racial divisions and insurrections within the past century. These conflicts have often been fuelled by tensions staged by politicians pursuing their own gains and agendas.

We are a democratic socialist republic that embraces religious freedom and promotes ethnic harmony. As long as political interference doesn’t instigate divisions, we will continue to stand united.

Q: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

A: I envision myself pursuing my academic dreams, dedicating time to teaching music to young people, being involved in meaningful youth work and taking care of my parents.

Q: And where do you see Sri Lanka in a decade from today?

A: I foresee Sri Lanka undergoing significant change and improvement in many fields. The country is self-sufficient and lacks none of the natural resources needed for prosperity; we can hope for greener pastures here.

However, the realisation of this potential lies in the hands of proper governance and effective non-corrupt leadership, under which Sri Lanka will have the opportunity to flourish.

Q: In your opinion, who is responsible for climate change and global warming – and what must be done about it?

A: Major contributors to climate change include global giants such as the US, China, Russia and India, though we’re all individually accountable.

Reducing carbon footprints and our dependence on fossil fuels, opting for cleaner and greener sustainable development, and eliminating the use of non-renewable energy are some crucial steps that countries can take to minimise their contribution to climate change.

Q: How do you view the growing importance of social media today?

A: In a day and age where social media has become a useful tool for staying connected, it is rapidly evolving into an addiction and a growing social issue.

I strongly view social media as helpful rather than important. Its current state reveals shortcomings with no filters to mitigate potential damage, minimal security and a lack of authentic vision for social upliftment.

Many users are visibly drifting away from reality, living in the moment and forgetting who they are beyond their digital profiles. Digital interactions are taking precedence over meaningful in-person connections, family time, health and character development.

Q: And finally, where do you see the world in 10 years?

A: The world will reach new heights in innovation and technology, especially in areas such as AI and advanced social mobility. Living standards will improve and developing nations will step into a phase of stability.

Despite these advancements however, the need for rest and sustenance, and peace and truth, will persist and remain as pressing as ever before.