Senior Professor Wasantha Athukorala from the University of Peradeniya’s Economics and Statistics Department commended the Government’s efforts under the “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative, aimed at transforming a nation hindered by corruption, fraud, and mismanagement for 76 years.
Prof. Athukorala highlighted the importance of accelerating economic growth in 2025, building on the significant achievements of the past year. He outlined key milestones in the country’s recovery journey, including:
- Achieving 5% overall economic growth and nearly 10% growth in the industrial sector in 2024.
- Successfully controlling inflation and reducing interest rates to encourage business activities.
- Stabilising the Sri Lankan Rupee and increasing foreign reserves through effective Central Bank policies.
He stated that these achievements laid the groundwork for sustained growth, urging the Government to aim for 8% to 10% economic growth in 2025. Such progress, he explained, would reduce the risks associated with repaying foreign and domestic debt and position Sri Lanka as a rapidly developing nation.
Prof. Athukorala also stressed the need for the upcoming national budget, set to be presented in February, to include creative and impactful solutions to longstanding economic and social challenges.
He called for collective responsibility, noting the current widespread societal opposition to corruption and inefficiency. “Both political leaders and citizens are demanding a transformation into a state free from fraud and bribery. Stabilising the economy and society is essential to achieving this goal,” he said.
The professor concluded by emphasizing that the success of the “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative depends not only on Government reforms but also on active participation and commitment from all sectors of society.
