The overall computer literacy rate in Sri Lanka is 34.3% as reported by the Department of Census and Statistics Sri Lanka in 2021 (Photo by Wirestock on Freepik)
Computer literacy is the ability to use computers proficiently, which includes knowledge of basic computer skills, software applications, and the internet. In Sri Lanka, computer literacy has become increasingly essential for people’s daily lives, education, and work.
However, Sri Lanka is facing several challenges in achieving an equal level of computer literacy across the nation. In this article, we will explore the challenges of computer literacy in Sri Lanka and possible solutions.
The Digital Divide: Urban vs Rural Areas
Access to a computer may be scarce in more rural areas, compared to urban areas where almost every house has a computer or access to a communication centre. (Photo by Freepik).
The digital divide is the gap between those who have access to digital technology and those who do not. In Sri Lanka, the digital divide is noticeable between urban and rural areas. People living in urban areas have more access to computers and technology than those living in rural areas. The lack of access to computers and technology is a significant obstacle to increasing computer literacy in rural areas.
This is due to a lack of resources and infrastructure to support tech advancement nationwide. Despite the IT industry having grown over the past decade to become a top BPO (business process outsourcing) services provider, not everyone has access to a computer or smart device.
Access to Technology: Infrastructure Challenges
Despite urban areas having good infrastructure, the rest of the country is yet to catch up, this has affected the computer literacy of the country. (Photo by Jalitha Hewage on Unsplash)
The infrastructure challenge is another significant obstacle to computer literacy in Sri Lanka. The lack of access to electricity, internet connectivity, and other essential resources hinders people’s ability to learn and acquire computer literacy skills.
To overcome this challenge, the government should invest in infrastructure development to provide access to electricity and internet connectivity in all parts of the country. Moreover, private organisations can help by investing in digital technology and providing training and support to people in remote areas.
Language Barrier: English vs Local Languages
Sri Lanka is a multicultural country with several local languages and dialects, the main languages spoken being Sinhala and Tamil. However, most of the computer applications and software are in English. This creates a language barrier for people who are not proficient in the language.
To overcome this challenge, the government should encourage English language training programs for computer skills to enable people to become competent in computer literacy.
Education System: Lack of Emphasis on IT
The education system in Sri Lanka needs more emphasis on information technology (IT) education. IT education is crucial in developing computer literacy skills, but the current education system does not provide enough resources and opportunities for students to learn IT skills.
The government should develop a comprehensive IT education program in schools and universities to overcome this challenge. Moreover, the private sector can partner with schools and universities to provide training and resources to students to improve their computer literacy skills.
Limited Job Opportunities in the Field
The limited job opportunities in the field of computer literacy are another challenge in Sri Lanka. Since the demand for computer literacy skills is increasing globally, the job market for computer-related jobs in Sri Lanka is opening up.
Despite fewer resources, Sri Lanka has the potential to become a major hub for IT. With many people becoming more interested in all things tech and digital transformation, the industry is moving in a positive way.
Government Initiatives and Future Prospects
The future of computer literacy is looking towards the brighter side, with smart devices being more accessible younger generations may quickly grasp onto the nuances of tech. (Photo by pressfoto on Freepik)
The government of Sri Lanka has taken several initiatives to improve computer literacy in the country. For example, the government has established computer training centres and provided free laptops to school children. Moreover, the government has implemented policies to promote the development of the technology industry in Sri Lanka.
Computer literacy is essential for personal growth, education, and career development in Sri Lanka. Hopefully, with the new interest of the government and private sector, IT education may improve and become more inclusive.
