Colombo (September 17, 2024) — In a bold vision for Sri Lanka’s future, United People’s Alliance presidential candidate Sajith Premadasa plans to eliminate the use of physical coins and notes as part of a sweeping digital transformation, according to a statement by Patali Champika Ranawaka, MP and leader of the United Republic Front. This ambitious plan was discussed at the unveiling of the United People’s Alliance’s National Education Policy, chaired by Premadasa.
Ranawaka highlighted the historical significance of Sri Lanka’s commitment to free education, contrasting it with global examples of educational struggles, including the challenges faced by women and marginalized groups in countries like India and Pakistan. He emphasized that Sri Lanka’s approach to education had paved the way for widespread social progress.
He noted that Sajith Premadasa’s manifesto focuses on modernizing the nation through digital public infrastructure. The plan includes assigning each citizen a unique digital identity code, linking all personal and financial data, including bank accounts, licenses, and property deeds, to a single platform accessible via mobile phones.
“This system will enable people to conduct all their financial transactions digitally, leading to the eventual phasing out of physical currency,” Ranawaka explained. “From buying a car to purchasing from a small shop, everything will be done through mobile platforms, similar to how India achieved rapid economic growth after implementing a similar system in 2016.”
According to Ranawaka, this initiative will also uncover hidden wealth in the country, doubling Sri Lanka’s income potential. Additionally, the plan calls for digitizing procurement processes to ensure transparency in pricing, from medicine to fuel.
As part of this overall modernization, the education system will also be digitized, with performance targets and evaluation processes introduced for schools, teachers, and even ministers. “We are presenting an activism-focused vision for a future developed Sri Lanka,” Ranawaka said, calling on voters to support the plan to bring about a new era of digital governance.
