Mr. Sagala Ratnayaka, Senior Adviser on National Security and Head of Presidential Staff, emphasized the need for a generation of youth with progressive attitudes to advance a new economy. He made these remarks as the special guest on the second day of the 6th session of the 5th Youth Parliament of Sri Lanka.
Youth Parliament
The session took place on June 8th and 9th at the Presidential Secretariat Auditorium. On the first day, the special guests included Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs Harin Fernando and Pasindu Gunaratne, Chairman and Director General of the National Youth Service Council.
Youth Parliament
On the second day, Mr. Sagala Ratnayaka attended as the special guest, alongside K. Maheshan, Secretary of the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs, and Pasindu Gunaratne. The session focused on discussions related to the proposed Economic Transformation Bill and the development of a national youth policy tailored to current needs, highlighting the importance of a stable economic policy.
Youth Parliament
A total of sixty-two members participated on the first day, and seventy-nine on the second day, representing all members of the Youth Parliament. Mr. Sagala Ratnayaka addressed questions from the young parliamentarians and also participated in awarding certificates to members for their active participation.
Addressing the Youth Parliament Mr. Sagala Ratnayaka further said;
In today’s session, there was an extensive discussion on youth policy and the Economic Transformation Act. The President is dedicated to building a new economy for the future of the youth. The last significant economic shift in the country was the introduction of the open economic policy in 1978/79. Since then, there have been modifications, but no entirely new economic framework was established, hindering our progress in a competitive environment.
Youth Parliament
Political influences have significantly impacted our economy, affecting the attitudes of our youth. As we move forward with a new economy, it is essential that the attitudes of the youth evolve accordingly. Without improvements in education, knowledge, and training, economic reforms will not yield the desired benefits. The President consistently emphasizes this point.
Youth Parliament
It is crucial to provide the necessary training for the new economy to our children from now on, preparing their minds for future challenges. We must embrace new ideas, retaining beneficial practices and discarding ineffective ones. The new program should adopt only the positive aspects and leave behind the weak elements.
Youth Parliament
The government is committed to both youth development and the implementation of new legislation to support this goal. PMD
Youth Parliament
