The Secretary to the Ministry of Industries and Enterprise Development, Thilaka Jayasundara, has confirmed that 113 state institutions have been identified for restructuring as part of the government’s plan to enhance efficiency and accountability in the public sector. This follows President Anura Dissanayake’s recent announcement that urgent reforms are needed to address inefficiencies and financial burdens in various state-owned enterprises.
Speaking at a meeting with officials from institutions under the Ministry of Industries, Jayasundara emphasized that a special committee had been appointed to assess and recommend restructuring measures. The committee has been conducting a thorough review of these institutions, focusing on their financial viability, operational efficiency, and contribution to national development.
She further assured that the restructuring initiative is not politically motivated and that the current Minister and Deputy Minister have no intention of using these institutions to appoint their associates to management positions. Instead, the process is being undertaken to eliminate losses, improve service delivery, and optimize the performance of state institutions.
According to Jayasundara, the committee’s findings will be compiled into a comprehensive report and submitted to the President and the Minister within two weeks. Once reviewed, further directives are expected to be issued regarding the restructuring process.
The restructuring plan aligns with the government’s broader economic reform agenda, which aims to transform loss-making state-owned enterprises into self-sustaining entities. It also reflects efforts to reduce dependency on government subsidies and ensure that public funds are allocated effectively.
With Sri Lanka’s economy recovering and the government focusing on fiscal discipline, officials expect the restructuring process to attract potential investors and partnerships, leading to modernization and improved productivity in key sectors. The outcome of this initiative is anticipated to play a crucial role in shaping the future of the country’s public sector operations.