President Ranil Wickremesinghe announced the launch of the “Gen Z Dialogue” initiative to integrate young people’s perspectives into Sri Lanka’s governance. Speaking at the “Puluwan Sri Lanka” National Youth Conference, he highlighted plans for the National Youth Service Council to establish youth centers nationwide and organize dialogues at various administrative levels. The initiative aims to empower young people with digital skills, enhance youth representation in politics, and create new job opportunities by 2025.
The President emphasized the importance of taking a forward-looking stance, supporting a move toward an export-oriented economy and increasing youth participation in political processes. He declared intentions to create a Youth Parliamentary Advisory Office and include young people in sectoral committees within the legislature, with the goal of creating 150,000 new employment and chances for vocational training by 2025.
Wickremesinghe also declared his commitment to producing a capable Generation Z that is prepared to take on leadership roles, criticizing political rivals for their lack of specific strategies for youth development. To further integrate youth into the political process, new legislation will be enacted to improve public engagement in governance and to expand youth representation in municipal assemblies.