YOUTH FORUM

Compiled by Nicola Jayasundera

CIVIC DISCIPLINE FAUX PAS 

Raheel Shore calls out the visible decline of civic discipline in Sri Lanka

The bad is the systemic corruption that has spread from politics to our very own schools. It is devastating to witness unfair preferential treatment and bribery becoming part of the education system.

And the ugly is the visible decline of civic discipline – i.e. the lack of basic manners, hygiene and social etiquette in our daily lives. To establish real and lasting change, we must first acknowledge and address this issue at its roots.

Q: And what are the challenges facing the nation at this time?

A: The greatest challenge Sri Lankans face today is the soaring cost of living. As nearly a third of the population remains in poverty, even basic essentials have become financial burdens for the average family.

This harsh economic reality drives talented and skilled individuals to leave the country in search of better opportunities, ultimately hindering our ability to grow and progress as a nation.

Q: What are the challenges facing young people in Sri Lanka today?

A: Today, the youth of Sri Lanka are heavily influenced by social media, which has contributed to a gradual decline of mental health among young people. Many find themselves trapped in a cycle of comparison, often neglecting their own mental wellbeing.

And the lack of support and awareness has also contributed to an alarming rise in substance abuse among youth. Amid increasing digital pressure and these growing risks, staying on the right path is becoming harder for my generation.

Q: How can our youth contribute to national progress?

A: The most impactful thing youth can do is refuse to stay silent in the face of injustice. We must be a generation that is willing to take action immediately instead of sleeping on it.

Rather than being politically influenced, we must learn to think rationally and objectively for the betterment of society as a whole.

Q: What type of leadership do you think the world needs right now?

A: Given the current global situation, strong and effective leadership appears to be somewhat lacking.

The world needs leaders who are genuine and sincere – not only in their words but also in their actions. Such leaders must be empathetic and understanding, yet courageous enough to stand firmly against injustice.

Q: In your assessment, how has the advent of AI and technology shaped your view of the future?

A: The future will be more efficient but I’m also concerned about the overreliance on artificial intelligence. I worry that people may begin to depend on it for every small task, which could ultimately lead to the downfall of our critical thinking skills.

Q: As a young person, what are your hopes for and concerns about the future?

A: I hope for a future where mental health isn’t seen as a sign of weakness, where integrity prevails over corruption and where the world is defined by unity.

My primary concern is a world overrun by corruption and an increasingly widening digital gap. As technology continues to advance, I fear that those without access to tech may be left behind with fewer opportunities while corruption continues to grow and affect society as a whole.

Q: And last but not least, if you could launch a project or movement in Sri Lanka, what would it be – and why?

A: As an athlete myself, I have seen countless individuals with immense potential in their respective sports who are unable to realise even a fraction of it due to limited access to the necessary facilities – because of financial difficulties and a lack of support.

If I could, I’d launch a project dedicated to providing these athletes with the necessary facilities and professional coaching, enabling them to reach their full potential and become one of the greats in their chosen field.