By Sarath Dissanayake –
Sarath Dissanayake
In an era where online education has become a cornerstone for professional and personal growth, the power of online teaching and learning inter-alia stands out as a beacon of innovation, accessibility, and lifelong education. With the shift from traditional/virtual classroom settings to online platforms, the landscape of online education has undergone a profound change for the better, and continues to inspire a revolutionary change, offering unprecedented opportunities to learners across the globe. From highlighting the essence of online education, its role in learning, and the power of lifelong education to addressing the challenges and opportunities it presents, this article aims to inspire educators and learners alike, to embrace the online education journey. It underscores the significance of adapting to new modes of thinking, the importance of engagement and innovation in online education, and the bright future that lies ahead in leveraging technology to enhance online teaching and learning experiences.
Post-Pandemic Transformative Process: A Paradigm Shift in Education
In the wake of the 2020 pandemic, the students were the most impacted and the hardest hit. Of course, when the situation scrolled back to normalcy after 2-years of stagnation and disruption to formal education, a section of students and parents found themselves completely disoriented with legitimate apprehensions on the well-being of students, especially in regard to potential health hazards, risks and safety issues within the formal class-room setting. Suffice it to say, the fear-psychosis among sections of students and parents, inter-alia prompted stakeholders to initiate a novel concept of education, namely switching to online mode of education as an alternative to formal education across the board.
Post-pandemic online education trends have been largely complimentary in the wake of high-tech products and services being introduced by global tech giants, in facilitating tech-savvy online-users embracing and adapting themselves to novel online modes of education, while doing away with hitherto-prevalent formal modes of schooling. Indeed, online education has paid off well-and-truly, in transforming education services to online mode slowly but surely, marked by a steady progression, and paradigm shift. In so doing, the tech authorities spared no time, and acted swiftly in the best interests of all stake-holders in the field of education, in facilitating a smooth and hassle-free transition from school-mode to online-mode across the world, including Sri Lanka.
The Inception of Online Education in Sri Lanka: A Trend Setter
Being worst hit by pandemic, and already reeling from financial bankruptcy in 2021/22, Sri Lanka had to reinvent the wheel, and put up with austerity measures dictated to by the IMF and lending partners, in charting its own course at significant odds, inter-alia, marked the inception/birth of the online education for the first time in the country’s history. Sri Lanka’s transition through pandemic is indeed unique, characterized by a successful diversification of its education sector from a totality of formal education to a mix of both formal and online modes, thereby catering to students opting for online mode of education. Online education represents a fair share of private online schools and virtual online courses catering to all grades and ages; from primary to secondary, higher education, undergraduate to postgraduate academic programs, diplomas. etc.
To my knowledge, online education institutions operating in Sri Lanka do not necessarily come under the scrutiny of any government authority, unlike in the case of private schools and institutes including international schools, which ought to strictly abide by the rules and regulations of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, allied departments and agencies come under the ministry. Be that as it may, online education institutions and their academic courses must be on par with International Organization for Standardization (ISO) rules & regulations, and, at the same time, must operate and maintain with utmost transparency and accountability in accordance with the terms & conditions stipulated by the International Curriculum Association (ICA) as applicable to all such entities.
Phenomenal Growth and Success in Online Education: A Game Changer
The emergence of the online education landscape in the post-pandemic era could be regarded as a “Game Changer”, which continues to make ripples across the world with astounding success. Online education world-wide today accounts for nearly 5% share of the education sector in its entirety. Over the last several years, online education has recorded a phenomenal growth in real terms, registering an all-time-high; encompassing all segments, inter-alia, from kindergarten to secondary, and graduate to post-graduate, and beyond. Going by the popular proverb “Every cloud has a silver lining”, it is no doubt that on-line education has opened new vistas of opportunities for those in pursuit of online education as a career, and for others looking for novel opportunities for income generation in this day and age.
Simply put, online education has been mutually beneficial, and mutually rewarding for people with innovative, entrepreneurial and ambitious minds, capable of multitasking, and willing to face challenges with resilience, faith and determination. Among them, there are those who seldom give up, hold their breath in sheer steadfastness and courage, and are destined to prevail at the greatest of odds. They are sure to survive under any circumstances no matter what comes against their way. They are fearless, and not scared of death, dare to face challenges in dreadful and perilous situations, yet often end up victorious, in what could be termed as a “game-changer”.
Strengths & Drawbacks in Online Education: Sri Lanka’s Experience
It’s worth taking stock of Sri Lanka’s online education landscape. If I may elaborate further, the online education sector perhaps is the single-most-dynamic venture that has evolved and stood the test of times since 2020-pandemic, despite the country’s severe economic doldrums. In fairness to all, online education has thrived, and continues to make headway as a progressive alternative to formal school education. Sri Lanka’s online education sector has recorded an impressive growth and market penetration of around 5%, which is widely considered an overwhelming success, surpassing its South Asian counterparts. The country’s success story in online education, by and large stems from its inherent strengths, and competitive edge and advantage over formal education, which appeared to have outlived its purpose, rationale and spirit.
Sri Lanka’s virtual education today remains a force to reckon with, among students and parents alike, and is poised to grow exponentially in view of the sector’s resilience, popularity and comparative advantage as opposed to formal education. To its credit, online education has progressed seamlessly, and well-and-truly, reaching its optimum potential, and continues to make inroads into the formal education sector, thus catering to students from different walks of life and social strata within and without the country. Of late, mush-rooming of online education institutions in Sri Lanka has been a major cause for concern among industry stakeholders due to a myriad of reasons. Noteworthy of them include, apprehensions over quality assurances viz-a-viz course curriculum, subjects, staff, demand & supply, market saturation, unfair pricing, tuition fees, facilities, access to foreign universities, eligibility requirements and whatnot, to name a few.
Sri Lankan Youth Vs Mood of the Nation: Then and Now
My recollection of the children’s mood and the nation’s status-quo during the pandemic was one of somber, and precariously on the very edge of being broken, characterized by persistent anxiety, socio-economic insecurity, and chronic over-alertness. The somber demeanor and loss of spirited childhood qualities among Generation Z and Generation Alpha stem from overlapping crises, including pandemic-related social isolation, coercion, economic uncertainty and pervasive use of digital devices that often replace interpersonal connections. This sordid environment has heavily impacted their mental well-being and altered their reading and communication habits. A good majority of our children today look “distressed, depressed and hard-pressed”, often confronted with strong temptations including digital over-indulgence, peer pressure, and academic or behavioral issues etc.
The status-quo in the post-pandemic era had taken a turn for the worse, making them “restless, thoughtless and speechless”, much to the consternation and bewilderment of their parents. The youth, who were seen as carefree, with fewer pressures and expectations on the other hand, have succumbed to, and bore the brunt of post-pandemic vagaries and unforeseen circumstances. They eventually had to give-in, and adapt themselves to face the realities of times, amidst ever-growing concerns and uncertainties. In general, youth today are feeling frustrated, and confronted with an uncertain future and destiny, being left with little alternatives. To make matters worse, they are overwhelmingly obsessed with titles, statuses, trophies, recognition, wealth and materialism, inter-alia, hard-pressed by socio-economic woes, cosmopolitan life-styles and social media savvy status-quo of the youth.
Impact of Online Platforms & Social Media on Youth Behavior
It is highly unfair and hypocritical to expect children to avoid social media when their primary role models, namely parents alike, are deeply hooked, and immersed in social media platforms. In particular, social media frenzy among youth is often characterized by intense, highly reactive and obsessive online behavior that frequently sweeps through young demographics, heavily driven by the pursuit of likes, virality, and the fear of missing out. It is a widespread trend and illusion prevalent, especially among Gen Z in the wake of social media’s emergence, such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok,, to the point of making them vulnerable, albeit showing highly introverted behavioral problems, neglecting their studies and family commitments, more often than not. Driven by personal instincts, traits and social media-hype/habits, this hyper-connectivity correlates with diminished attention spans, noticeable increase in screen addiction, regular sleep deprivation, and escalating mental health challenges.
On the other hand, global tech companies and conglomerates are constantly looking for ways to capitalize on the unpredictable social media hype among youth by using targeted media stunts and marketing strategies in ways that appeal to youth. In fact that raises a pertinent question, whether countries if at all would have the wherewithal and resources to tackle the social media fallout on the youth on their own, at a time when most tech companies aim at doing the exact opposite. It is commonplace today that both children and parents live in a virtual world of delusion and fantasy. Unfortunately the parents too tend to forget the fact that they are supposed to be role models for children; alas, who oftentimes appeared to be on the social media belittling their children over their primary responsibilities. A recent case study conducted by a think tank on the impact of social media and online platforms, has drawn parallels between the social media addiction and drug addiction which prove the social media’s adverse impact on children, their well-being and morality and social ethics.
Transition from Formal Education to Online Mode: Challenges & Concerns
Amidst all the doom and gloom, people who lived through such turbulent times had pinned their hopes on a post-pandemic new world order. They drew inspiration from the lessons learnt, knowledge acquired and experience gained while rekindling aspirations to usher in a safer and more harmonious world for all. Though countries emerged with renewed vigor after months of abyss and isolation, not all of them did prosper and realign themselves with the evolving geo-political dynamics, trends and momentum amidst growing public apathy, concerns and complacency. Against this backdrop, countries impacted by the pandemic, inter-alia struggled and pursued their own ambitious pathways and goals; navigating uncharted waters with a sense of optimism, albeit caution, viz-a-viz setbacks, failures and hindrances. In the process, though some countries thrived well in adapting to the evolving post-pandemic era, others couldn’t stay on board, and had to change course.
This unfolding scenario was taken advantage of by global tech companies going haywire; introducing high-tech products, devices including laptops, smart devices, and what-not, together with a range of online platforms, services and apps. Eventually, such products and services flooded the markets, which, by and large turned out to be a blessing-in-disguise and complimentary towards addressing the looming health and safety concerns, much to the relief and expectations of students and their parents alike. These tech companies and their subsidiaries reportedly make enormous profits, amid catering to growing demands of online education services, enabling stakeholders to run their virtual online systems, applications and back-up services round the clock at affordable costs. Needless to note, the tech services aren’t confined only to the online education sector. Their services are now being widely adopted and practiced in a wide array of activities, cutting across multiple sectors of online education, involving students and youth alike, seeking opportunities in both formal and informal education.
A Trajectory of Online Education & Key Takeaways
Primarily, the online mode has its own advantages viz-a-viz drawbacks. For the sake of clarity, let me briefly discuss the status-quo of online mode vs formal mode.
1. Online education enables students to work from home, inter-alia, benefitting them to mitigate their foremost health, well-being, anxiety and security concerns, being the underlying reasons for the introduction of online education in the first place. Secondly, it affords students to avoid long hours of class-room education, and avail them of the opportunity to pick and choose their educational needs on a case-by-case basis, thus catering to their specific needs, situations, and concerns. On the other hand, students averse to school education have the option to shift to online mode, at their own terms.
2. In countries where weather/climate plays a part in the day-to-day running of schools, online education appears to be complimentary; in offering a greater degree of flexibility, freedom and choice, albeit in extremely hazardous weather conditions; in contrast to formal education. More importantly, online mode could help parents/students in making informed decisions on a child’s preferred mode of education, based on the student’s and parent’s comfort zones. That said, it makes sense for students to weigh in on weather /climate patterns to make informed decisions on his/her preferred mode of education.
3. Online mode tends to be a favorable choice for students of expat parents in view of the latter’s exigency of service abroad. For such students online mode is considered more attractive and sensible, so as to ensure continuity of education without hindrance.
4. It is often the case that students into online education pay comparatively less than those opting for formal education. In contrast, students pursuing formal education ought to pay more, besides incurring additional levies on account of routine services. As such, the overall cost outlay for students into online education would be comparatively less.
5. Online education is affordable for students in view of tailor-made courses offered at a nominal cost with minimum staff and overheads. Online schools adopt flexible tools and platforms to lower operational budgets to the barest minimum possible, in the course of delivering optimum services across multiple time zones. With emphasis on cost cutting and optimization being at the heart of online education, the students/parents alike will enjoy peace of mind, and the benefit of making value for money, while striving for quality education. The fact that online education is just confined to online/virtual mode, sans any collaterals, buildings or real estate at play, there will be no extra costs for students on account of additional staff or ancillary items, besides core academic staff at work.
6. A high degree of autonomy and flexibility in virtual education is a distinct advantage, making it all the more attractive, competitive and hassle free to all. Flexible hours of education, open-ended syllabus and diverse curriculum choices etc, considered added benefits and advantages, besides accommodating students’ concerns and appeals on their merits / demerits, at times students are hard pressed for flexible hours and options.
7. An additional feature in online schooling is the option and flexibility for students to avail themselves of pre-recorded lessons after school hours as the case may be.
8. Parents will be absolutely hassle free, with no direct bearing on the child’s logistics in regard to transport, security, tuition etc involving his/her day-to-day online schooling.
“Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.” – Mahatma Gandhi
*The writer is a retired Ambassador and Foreign Ministry Spokesman. Additionally he is the Co-Founder and Board Member of Global Horizon School, Pvt Ltd. He can be reached at schandrad@hotmail.com
References :
- Education Reforms : A Must & Be Embraced By All
(https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/education-reforms-a-must-be-embraced-by-all/)
- Sri Lanka At Crossroads Viz-A-Viz Youth: A Clarion Call For Course Correction
les / June 14, 2026
Very happy to hear moving forward with online education which is very much needed in Sri Lanka & across all continents.
wish you and your team the best.
Congratulations!!
/
Sarath / June 15, 2026
Les
Appreciate your kind sentiments. Cheers
/
LankaScot / June 14, 2026
Hello Sarath,
I live in Central Province and have followed the use of Online Education by Friends and Families’ Children during and after the Covid Lockdowns. A couple of the older ones were/are using Laptops that I have given them. On a number of occasions I have had to help them with Installation Problems that their Teachers could not solve. I also saw many connectivity issues with Zoom and WhatsApp etc.
Those at University also had problems with connectivity, as this report backs up “Poor internet connection was the top challenge faculty and students faced during online learning.”
https://www.adb.org/publications/online-learning-sri-lanka-during-covid-19
Before Sri Lanka moves to mainly Digital Learning Management Systems (LMS) they need to take steps to drastically improve the Country’s Digital Infrastructure. I am not a fan of LMS as they tend to be used in a Bureaucratic manner, not as an aid to Student Learning.
Sri Lankan Educators also need to look at the experience of other Countries and International Organisations. – https://www.oecd.org/en/publications/oecd-digital-education-outlook-2023_c74f03de-en/full-report/digital-teaching-and-learning-resources_5651654d.html
Every time there is a thunderstorm here (quite a few times per week) the Electrical Supply goes off. Unless Schools in the Area are provided with adequate UPS Devices their Infrastructure is at risk.
Best regards
/
Sarath / June 15, 2026
LS
Thanks for the heads-up on problems associated with online education in Sri Lanka. In fact I too am aware of the situ (through my own sources) which, if true, would be significant impediments for those already active and others planning to join. But it’s not just connectivity issues what make online education so challenging and inaccessible, specially to rural communities in the peripheries. Believe, it is more so due to lack of bandwidth, speed, literacy, digital infrastructure, skilled teachers and so on. I just read a report compiled by medRxiv in 2021/2022, based on an independent study/research targeting final year university students in western province, viz-a-viz their perception towards adapting to online education. The findings are very profound, self explanatory and revealing, inter-alia, which tends to paint a somewhat rosy picture on the tendency of university students embracing online education, which I believe is the first comprehensive independent study done in Sri Lanka on the subject of “online education trends and perceptions” using a group of final year undergrads. Interestingly, the students seldom have spoken of any ills and draw backs in online education in Sri Lanka. In contrast however, the ADB and OEC reports you have referred to, in he-insight allude to certain hindrances and deficiencies (structural, technical, literacy, infrastructural, and lack of skilled teachers, administrative and regulatory controls etc) being the primary causes why online education in Sri Lanka is not reaching its potential and intended users. Furthermore, high costs of telecommunication services, internet bandwidth, frequent power outages, high cost and shortages of equipment, lack of financial help for rural students to purchase devices and internet too have been cited as draw backs in the two reports. But I am little hesitant to take the findings on face value since ADB and OECD reports have been compiled in 2000 and 2023 respectively which, viz-a-viz beg the question whether the reports’ findings would actually reflect the status-quo of Sri Lanka’s online landscape and penetration in the country as of today. I tend to believe that the situation of online education is much better today than it was over the last several years. But I may be wrong. If someone / anyone knows the situation first-hand, would welcome your / their candid opinions / assessments on the situ, back by any evidence – which would help interested parties understand the latest situ on Sri Lanka’s online education. Thanks once again for your interest and sharing your wealth of info on this important subject. The link for the Medrxiv report is at https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.10.18.25338275v1.full
/
old codger / June 15, 2026
Sarath,
“In particular, social media frenzy among youth is often characterized by intense, highly reactive and obsessive online behavior that frequently sweeps through young demographics, heavily driven by the pursuit of likes, virality, and the fear of missing out. It is a widespread trend and illusion prevalent, especially among Gen Z in the wake of social media’s emergence, such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok,, to the point of making them vulnerable, albeit showing highly introverted behavioral problems, neglecting their studies and family commitments, more often than not. Driven by personal instincts, traits and social media-hype/habits,…..”
You seem to have a low opinion of social media, but here you are promoting online education, which also involves children hooked to screens for hours.
Where are the interactions with other children? The sports and EC activities?
Is this not contradictory?
/
Sarath / June 15, 2026
OC
Yes, of course. To be honest, what you said makes absolute sense. Youth today seemed to be completely swayed, influenced and shaped by social media, of course both for the better and worse. While social media offers avenues for interest-driven exploration and community, its structural design heavily influences the identity formation, habits, and mental well-being of the youth, which could be of nuisance for the future of youth unless they see things as they are. uy If you are honest, the truth is what is said is nothing but the simple truth.
/
Sarath / June 15, 2026
OC
Sorry my post has been abruptly ended/posted, before I could complete my comment. All what I meant to say was that social media presents significant challenges for the youth, with research linking excessive use to heightened risks of anxiety, depression, and sleep disruption.To mitigate these effects, experts often recommend setting screen time limits and encouraging offline hobbies.
As a matter of fact, I would tend to compare social media and online education as two sides of the same coin: both use the internet to connect people and share information, but they offer vastly different experiences. One is optimized for rapid engagement and community building, while the other is built for structured learning and skill acquisition. Paradoxically, online education tends to be less evasive than social media; namely it means that online learning environments prioritize directness, clarity, and objective facts, whereas social media platforms naturally foster indirect or ambiguous communication.
Having said that, however much one may try to defend online education as opposed to formal education, nobody could deny the fact that both come with inherent drawbacks and limitations as well as merits and demerits which speak for themselves. Thanks
/
LankaScot / June 15, 2026
Hello Sarath,
A little correction, the ADB report was from 2020 not 2000. Here is part of their Conclusion – “This study revealed that over half (51.4%) of final-year undergraduates in selected state universities in Sri Lanka had a good perception toward online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic,…”
Not a very good result of just over half?
I spent 2 years Presenting and Developing (in a Team) a Blended Learning Series of Courses for a section of the UK Military, without any Internet Connection (for obvious reasons) in the Classes.
Best regards
Best regards
/
Sarath / June 15, 2026
LS
Thanks for the pointer – 2020. Yes, you are correct, and I too believe in what is presented, and no denial of the fact that 54% is neither here nor there. Good to know that you spent 2 years developing online curricula for UK military, and that itself speaks volumes about your interest in online education. May I know the subjects you specialized in during your 2-year commitment with UK military, of course if you have no problems in sharing sensitive info in a public forum. Thanks
/
LankaScot / June 15, 2026
Hello Sarath,
In my reply I quoted the Medrxiv Report Conclusion (not the ADB). Apologies.
Best regards
/
Sarath / June 15, 2026
LS
Noted with thanks. By the way, MedRxiv Report is not explicitly clear- in which year the research was done (2020 ?) , samples were collected and when the final report was presented )2021/2 ?), except for the fact that report was the first comprehensive independent research done on online education in Sri Lanka after Covid pandemic. Thanks
/
chiv / June 15, 2026
Online education is a boon for school going children who otherwise lack basic educational facilities. But, as LS mentioned infrastructure and uninterrupted services are needed to make it work.
Like with food, alcohol, money, RELIGION . . . . . . . . anything in excess is a problem.
As Physicians we are already seeing excess digital / electronic / screen use
soon overtaking most other public health issues we face . . . .
obesity, alcohol / substance use . . . .
I encountered an angry, impulsive who attempted hanging but survived with Hypoxic brain injuries , just because his parents took away the phone right before his 10th main exams.
There are already newer classified diagnoses in Opthalmology , Neurology, Psychiatry related to excess digital / screen use.
/
Sarath / June 15, 2026
Chiv,
Thanks – you have said it in no uncertain terms, namely the ills, nuisance and drawbacks of excessive screen use and addiction to social media which is commonplace among kids, teens, youth and adults alike – which i’m afraid is a real social issue in the country, more than an addiction issue. You being a doctor must surely be knowing and familiar with the real situation first-hand.
Yesterday I was watching on youtube a presentation by Dr Eric Berg titled “impact of screen addiction on the eye sight and vision of people” in which he made certain nerve-wracking disclosures, of which the following really caught my attention. The slide he shared had the caption” What 8 Hours of Screen Time Does to Your Eyes” which was really worth watching to understand what excessive screen time could to your eyes, unless you break in-between and take your eyes away from the screen every half an hour and pose for 20-30 seconds.
Certainly I take “screen time” seriously which really is something the kids, youth and adults must be told and should be aware of, as part of school / online education from kindergarten itself. Otherwise, the next generation of kids may end up half blind at birth while the next half would go completely blind by the time they reach childhood at this rate of screen addition and social media frenzy. Thanks for your very insightful comment.
/
chiv / June 16, 2026
Sarath, to my knowledge here are few.
Computer Vision Syndrome ( Digital Eye Strain )
Various neck, cervical spine, shoulder related neurological and Orthopedic problems related to prolonged unhealthy posture.
Significant mood , personality , behavioral changes, delinquency, developmental abnormality
( including social skills ) in children and adolescents.
Last but not least , there are reported cases of violence
where aggressive adolescents addicted to Gaming (when confronted)
causing physical harm to parents and elders.
/
Sarath / June 16, 2026
Chiv,
Thanks for sharing. By the way, Dr Eric Berg’s candid assessment of the prognosis was really alarming. Here what he said in nutshell.
What 8-hours of Screen Time Does to Your Eyes (If Not Broken Every Half Hour)
Hour – 1 :- Squeeze begins
Hour – 2 :- Blink rate crashes
Hour – 3 :- Static lock mismatch
Hour – 4 :- Retina starts going dark
Hour – 5 :- Focussing muscle locks
Hour – 6 :- Balance system
Hour – 7 :- Shrinking tunnel
Hour – 8 :- Damage – nearsightedness
Over to you.
/
old codger / June 16, 2026
Sarath,
“Otherwise, the next generation of kids may end up half blind at birth while the next half would go completely blind by the time they reach childhood at this rate of screen addition and social media frenzy. Thanks for your very insightful comment.”
I can tell you that is absolute hogwash, from personal experience.
I spent decades in front of CRT screens AND behind microwave ovens. Here I am, still OK, not even a cataract. As you yourself recommend, don’t take social media too seriously.
/
Sarath / June 16, 2026
OC
You may be one of those rarest breads on earth, so to say. It’s not just hearsay, but expert opinion, and is proven beyond a reasonable doubt that screen addiction is indeed a recipe for vision impairment. Please read what Dr Eric Berg had to say on the subject, who often referred to as “The Knowledge Doc”. and many other experts in the field of ophthalmology.
Have no illusion, screen addiction with no-break-ups in between is a very real behavioral dependency. Long hours without breaks trap the brain in a constant dopamine loop, leading to reduced attention spans, digital eye strain, sleep disturbances, and “text neck”, leading to serious vision impairment. However, implementing even small habits can break the cycle of continuous, unmonitored screen time. The common advise is – every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at an object at least 20 feet away. This gives your eye muscles a necessary reset to prevent Computer Vision Syndrome, which is suffice in reducing the potential impairment to eye significantly. This is not my 2-cents, but experts advice. Thanks
/
LankaScot / June 16, 2026
Hello Sarath,
You are so gullible, “Dr. Eric Berg is a licensed chiropractor, not a medical doctor”.
Best regards
/
Sarath / June 17, 2026
LS
You are mistaken. Why cannot a chiropractor makes prognosis on the impairment of eye sight based on screen time. After all, Chiropractor is a licensed healthcare professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating patients with medical disorders. What Dr Berg told was how screen time and screen addiction could lead to the impairment of eye sight. I don’t see any problem with Dr Berg making prognosis on screen time and impairment of eye sight.
/
LankaScot / June 17, 2026
Hello Sarath,
A Chiropractor generally manipulates the Spinal Column. Most Medical Professionals do not see them as qualified Professionals. “Dr. Eric Berg is a popular YouTuber and chiropractor, not a medical doctor (MD). While he promotes “Healthy Keto” and Intermittent Fasting, medical professionals and dietitians frequently debunk his claims for oversimplifying complex health issues and ignoring evidence-based medicine.”
“Chiropractic care originated from the idea that spinal misalignments (“subluxations”) interfere with the nervous system and cause general illness. There is no credible scientific evidence that spinal manipulation can cure organic diseases, improve immunity against viruses, or treat visceral conditions like colic, allergies, or asthma.
I did a Health & Safety Course on the safe use of Display Screens and the recommended Seating and Desk Requirements – Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992 (as amended in 2002) – https://www.hse.gov.uk/msd/dse/ I was setting up my Classrooms in various Establishments to teach IT and this was the first Topic that I would cover. But that does not entitle me to give any Medical Advice on their harmful effects. Remember old style CRT Screens did have risks due to x-Ray radiation which are not present in Modern Flat Screens.
Best regards
/
Sarath / June 17, 2026
LS,
I take your points of view seriously. But it occurs to me that Chiropractors do treat patients with diverse ailments and prognosis in this day and age, and not necessarily only for those with spinal related ailments / injuries Though they are supposed to be licensed healthcare professional specialized in diagnosing and treating neuromuscular disorders in the good old days, today they perform all kinds of health-care treatments..
However, in the case of vision impairment, what Dr Berg said was, if people tend to be glued to screens for far too long, then his /her eye muscles get hardened, causing them to tire, ache, and spasm, resulting in digital eye strain, – a condition called “computer vision syndrome”, which he said quite common among kids and those who tend to use computers too often, and far too long, Dr Berg said unless these kids take their eyes off the screen every 30 minutes and pose for 20-30 seconds, they will end up with short-sightedness, and impairment of sight in the long term.
He was basically telling students to avoid looking at screens for more than 30 minutes at a stretch. Hope this makes sense. But I do take your point, Chiropractors are not specialists of any sort for that matter. But times have changed, and they too are now known to perform all tasks. Thanks
/
old codger / June 17, 2026
Sarath,
“Why cannot a chiropractor makes prognosis on the impairment of eye sight based on screen time. After all, Chiropractor is a licensed healthcare professional “
That would be like you expounding on the Holy Trinity to a Catholic audience. There is a difference, you know.
From AI:
Is Eric Berg a doctor?
Yes — but not a medical doctor.
Dr. Eric Berg is a licensed chiropractor and health educator. Public bios state that he earned a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic, which makes him a health professional, but not an M.D. or D.O. physician.
So the accurate distinction is:
Medical professional? Yes, in the broader sense of a licensed health professional
Medical doctor? No
Chiropractor? Yes
If you want, I can also explain what a D.C. can and cannot do compared with an M.D.
/
old codger / June 17, 2026
Sarath,
What you wrote is :”Otherwise, the next generation of kids may end up half blind at birth”. Check your writing.
Are you suggesting that people who go blind because of “staring at screens” will produce children who are half blind at birth?
Well then, show us that it is “It’s not just hearsay, but expert opinion, and is proven beyond a reasonable doubt ” Where are the scientific links?
It is not advisable to depend on social media pundits to form opinions. Surely you know that they get paid by the views they get?
/
leelagemalli / June 17, 2026
Hello OC,
“Are you suggesting that people who go blind because of “staring at screens” will produce children who are half blind at birth?”
.
There is no scientific evidence to support this. I completely agree with you.
–
This is from the perspective of an experienced ophthalmologist:
.
If screen use contributes to myopia in children, and myopic individuals have children, it can sometimes appear as though screen-related eyesight problems are inherited. But what is inherited is the genetic predisposition to myopia, not the eye changes caused by screen exposure itself.
–
No evidence that normal computer screen use causes blindness.
Strong evidence that prolonged screen use can cause temporary eye strain and dry eyes.
Some evidence that extensive near-work (including screens) contributes to increasing rates of myopia, especially in children.
Even if screens caused acquired eye damage, that damage would generally not be genetically inherited by the next generation.
/
Sarath / June 17, 2026
Leela / LS / OC
Thanks a lot. Please rest assured, all three of you are spot on, on this point of contention. My comment, inter-alia, ”Otherwise, the next generation of kids may end up half blind at birth”, which I myself twisted to give it a little spin, is surely a bit of an over exaggeration. I am extremely sorry to have caused a hornet’s nest. Appreciate your understanding and patience. Thanks
/
Sarath / June 17, 2026
OC
I take your points of view seriously. But it occurs to me that Chiropractors do treat patients with diverse ailments and prognosis in this day and age, and not necessarily only for those with spinal related ailments / injuries Though they are supposed to be licensed healthcare professional specialized in diagnosing and treating neuromuscular disorders in the good old days, today they perform all kinds of health-care treatments..
However, in the case of vision impairment, what Dr Berg said was, if people tend to be glued to screens for far too long, then his /her eye muscles get hardened, causing them to tire, ache, and spasm, resulting in digital eye strain, – a condition called “computer vision syndrome”, which he said quite common among kids and those who tend to use computers too often, and far too long, Dr Berg said unless these kids take their eyes off the screen every 30 minutes and pose for 20-30 seconds, they will end up with short-sightedness, and impairment of sight in the long term.
He was basically telling students to avoid looking at screens for more than 30 minutes at a stretch. Hope this makes sense. But times have changed, and they too are now known to perform all tasks. Nonetheless, I do take your point, and fully with you, that Chiropractors are not specialists of any sort for that matter. Thanks
/
Sarath / June 17, 2026
OC
Thanks a lot. Please rest assured, all three of you are spot on, on this point of contention. My comment, inter-alia, ”Otherwise, the next generation of kids may end up half blind at birth”, which I myself twisted to give it a little spin, is surely a bit of an over exaggeration. I am extremely sorry to have caused a hornet’s nest. Appreciate your understanding and patience. Thanks
/
Gnana Dissanayake / June 14, 2026
I am curious about online education (OE) specially because of my kids. They are currently going to a private school in Gamapaha. They too are happy to switch to OE and wondering the cost factor. Can you share more information about the Global Horizon School ? Is it based in Colombo. How can I contact this school, please share contact details, webpage and email etc. as my kids are thinking of switching to online education from 2026.
/
leelagemalli / June 15, 2026
GD,
.
Traditional school education provides children with much more than academic knowledge. By attending school in person, students learn how to interact with their peers, cooperate with others, resolve conflicts, respect differences, and develop social and emotional skills that are essential for adult life. Daily face-to-face contact with teachers and classmates helps children build confidence, empathy, discipline, and resilience while exposing them to diverse perspectives and experiences.
–
Online education offers flexibility and access to a wide range of learning resources, making it a valuable option for some students. However, it often requires greater self-motivation, independent learning skills, and active parental support, especially for younger children. While virtual learning can effectively deliver academic content, it may provide fewer opportunities for social development, teamwork, and the everyday interactions that help children learn how to function in society.
–
Before enrolling their children in an online education program, parents should carefully research the quality of the curriculum, teacher qualifications, student support services, and opportunities for social engagement.
They should also consider whether their child’s personality, learning style, and developmental needs are suited to a largely virtual environment. Since education is not only about acquiring knowledge but also about developing character and interpersonal skills, many experts believe that in-person schooling, particularly during the early years, remains an important foundation for a child’s long-term personal and social development.
/
Sarath / June 15, 2026
GD
Appreciate your interest in online education. I’m more than happy to provide you with info requested. It is safe to share info when you do it through a secure channel and with trusted individuals. Would you mind sending your contact details (email address) to my inbox (schandrad@hotmail.com).
/
Sarath / June 15, 2026
GD
Please find below for your attention, my reply to Leela in response to his comment on the article (which I believe makes sense in terms of his post addressed to you.
Trust this helps you in deciding what’s better for your kids. Thanks
————————
Leela,
Formal school education :-
Thanks for articulating so clearly what makes school education and class-room setting so special for a child in his/her formative years of learning. In fact, there’s no denial of why formal education is so highly valued and enriching in today’s society. Simply put, it’s no exaggeration why “early years of classroom learning ” is so critical for a child to be well groomed, moulded and instilled in good manners, habits and ethics in early years of childhood, which after all – lays the foundation for him /her to become a productive, well-mannered, mature, responsible adult in later years in life. In other words, early years of school education is indispensable and sacrosanct in a child’s overall development, in which teachers must take the utmost care and responsibility in fulfilling their bounded duty to make children in early years in learning, inter-alia, responsible, caring and law-abiding citizens.
The “early years of school education” (often called “early childhood education”) refers to structured learning for children from birth through age eight (typically spanning preschool up to the third or fourth grade). It focuses on holistic, play-based development rather than rigid academics, laying the foundation for future cognitive and social skills. Being a caring, well-mannered, and decent child means developing a strong foundation of empathy, respect, and integrity during your formative school years. These traits shape adult life by fostering healthy relationships, ethical decision-making, and personal fulfillment which usually are moulded and groomed in a school environment. It’s therefore imperative for kids in their formative years of learning to complete early years of childhood learning in a formal school classroom setting.
Online Education :-
However, online education on the other-hand, would serve well, viz-a-viz for students averse to long years of school education, and for those who are in pursuit of championing their life-long career ambitions and prospects. Furthermore, online education also has its distinct merits, benefits and advantages, inter-alia, afford students to make personal choices, selections and preferences in the selection of study courses, thus enabling them to gain maximum opportunities for they themselves and their peers.
The online education also serves as the best alternative to formal education at a time the government is in incapable of catering to all students through kindergarten to higher education and beyond. The large number of students who end up as school dropouts without being able to pursue higher education, albeit invariably find themselves in a dire predicament of not having the means and resources to pursue their life-long dreams and aspirations, inter-alia, would naturally resort to online education as an alternative to formal education in their early years in life – as in the case of students who have opted, and continue to embrace online education as the most compelling and sensible alternative.
For all of the above reasons, needless to note that online education seems the most obvious choice for students in pursuit of life-long learning and career ambitions in the absence of state-funded learning opportunities at schools, universities and other institutions of learning, training, higher education, vocational, professional and specialized fields and careers.
Trust the above clarifies
/
Kumarjayatillaka / June 17, 2026
Hello Mr. S.D,
I’m interested in your Global Horizon school, but I cannot find it online. Do you not have a website? If you do, please put the link here, thank you.
/
Sarath / June 17, 2026
KumarJ
Appreciate your interest in online education. I’m more than happy to provide you with info requested. It is safe to share info when you do it through a secure channel and with trusted individuals. Would you mind sending your contact details (email address) to my inbox (schandrad@hotmail.com). Thanks
/
Kumarjayatillaka / June 17, 2026
Mr. SD,
I would really like to browse through options on your website if any, before committing myself, as I have done with other colleges. Don’t you have one?
/
leelagemalli / June 15, 2026
Hello Sarath,
thanks for the article.
.
Physical attendance at school also exposes children to the realities of life beyond their families and immediate surroundings. While technology offers many educational benefits, it should complement rather than replace direct human interaction, especially during a child’s formative years. Differences in parenting styles and cultural traditions across societies may influence children’s behavior, but regardless of cultural background, schools play a vital role in teaching mutual understanding, respect, and social responsibility.
–
In online forums, we sometimes encounter individuals who consistently respond to those they perceive as less knowledgeable with insults or dismissive remarks rather than constructive engagement.
–
Some commenters, such as “Lester” in this forum, may be seen as examples of this behavior.
–
While it would be unfair to speculate about the causes of any individual’s conduct, such interactions highlight the importance of social development, empathy, and learning how to treat others with respect from an early age.
–
For this reason, educational reformers should carefully consider the long-term social and emotional benefits of in-person schooling and ensure that it remains a central part of education, at least during the early stages of learning.
/
Lester / June 15, 2026
Why does the CT mod allow “Leela” to cut and paste large volumes of spam from the AI? The above reply is entirely AI-generated. If the purpose of this website is to attract new visitors, having to go through spam repeatedly will have the opposite effect. Working people have limited time. No one wants to have to keep having to scroll through the delusions of some mentally ill refugee.
Sarath made a similar point in his earlier thread in regards to fake ID’s.
/
old codger / June 15, 2026
LM,
“In online forums, we sometimes encounter individuals who consistently respond to those they perceive as less knowledgeable with insults or dismissive remarks rather than constructive engagement.”
Exactly. Like the individual who wrote these:
“Lester / June 10, 2026
0 6
Another idiot who can’t do basic maths. The Muslim population is growing twice as fast as the Sinhalese population”
Lester / June 14, 2026
4 2
Leela (real name Babalawathie)
Too bad about your nutless alcoholic father who ran away or the mother that stood on street corners at odd hours, but why don’t you keep your “godey” fantasies to yourself? As DS pointed out, people like you who are obsessed with porno have serious mental issues.”
.
Anyone can see who the psycho is.
/
leelagemalli / June 15, 2026
oc,
Thank you.
.
What happened to Lester’s high IQ score?
What about his “filter”?
Aside from that, the same person continues to make rude comments in this CT-forum. If he’s not insane, how dare he ask CT-admin why I or others use AI data. Lester and other monsters disguised as humans are genetically damaging to populations. Why would he blame us? We regret that he had to undergo such invasive surgeries to remove his testicles. However, he should be able to deal with “facts”.
/
leelagemalli / June 16, 2026
oc,
Funny guy, he brands my identity as Indian, then Tamil Bugger, or Sinhala Kotiya, and finally a refugee in Europe, followed by another name that Sinhalaese never had in Sri Lanka. None of these reflect my genuine identity.
And there is no such thing as consistency in this beast’s blood.
This occurs when a person becomes permanently nut-free. poor thing !
/
old codger / June 16, 2026
LM,
Perhaps you should publish that Web link to his orchidectomy?
/
leelagemalli / June 16, 2026
“Sarath made a similar point in his earlier thread in regards to fake ID’s.”- The truth is that our decent Sarath would never stoop to that level.
–
—-The pot calls the kettle black —-
–
Lester repeatedly misuses comments by copying and pasting the same material. Attempts to gaslight others are no longer effective. He has repeatedly shown that his knowledge is limited to the stock market and that he lacks a basic understanding of many other subjects.
–
“Lester” is not his real name, as he prefers to remain anonymous. Nevertheless, he appears eager to attract attention.
–
Many contributors on the CT forum use the title “Dr.” but do not boast about it. That is simply a fact. Some of these contributors have also authored or co-authored a number of scientific and medical publications.
/
Lester / June 17, 2026
“The truth is that our decent Sarath would never stoop to that level.”
First of all, you did not condemn the impersonator. The second point: Sarath sent an e-mail to the CT Mod. The CT Mod knows Old Pervert/Old Codger is the one behind the fake ID’s. You and the alcoholic in Kandy (another criminal who referenced his underage nephew’s anatomy on CT) encourage his behavior. Maybe all three of you have a similar background? How much did the customers pay your Madame?
/
LankaScot / June 17, 2026
Hello half-wit Lester,
I asked you before to “put up or shut up”. Now present your evidence about a reference to my Nephew or I will be sending the Administrators an email of complaint.
/
Lester / June 17, 2026
Why are you coming forward, if you were not mentioned specifically? This could be interpreted as an admission of guilt.
Regards to Madame. Business will be “brisk” after Mbappé’s performance.
/
Sarath / June 17, 2026
Leela,
Noted with thanks.
/
Sarath / June 15, 2026
Leela,
Formal school education :-
Thanks for articulating so clearly what makes school education and class-room setting so special for a child in his/her formative years of learning. In fact, there’s no denial of why formal education is so highly valued and enriching in today’s society. Simply put, it’s no exaggeration why “early years of classroom learning ” is so critical for a child to be well groomed, moulded and instilled in good manners, habits and ethics in early years of childhood, which after all – lays the foundation for him /her to become a productive, well-mannered, mature, responsible adult in later years in life. In other words, early years of school education is indispensable and sacrosanct in a child’s overall development, in which teachers must take the utmost care and responsibility in fulfilling their bounded duty to make children in early years in learning, inter-alia, responsible, caring and law-abiding citizens.
The “early years of school education” (often called “early childhood education”) refers to structured learning for children from birth through age eight (typically spanning preschool up to the third or fourth grade). It focuses on holistic, play-based development rather than rigid academics, laying the foundation for future cognitive and social skills. Being a caring, well-mannered, and decent child means developing a strong foundation of empathy, respect, and integrity during your formative school years. These traits shape adult life by fostering healthy relationships, ethical decision-making, and personal fulfillment which usually are moulded and groomed in a school environment. It’s therefore imperative for kids in their formative years of learning to complete early years of childhood learning in a formal school classroom setting.
Online Education :-
However, online education on the other-hand, would serve well, viz-a-viz for students averse to long years of school education, and for those who are in pursuit of championing their life-long career ambitions and prospects. Furthermore, online education also has its distinct merits, benefits and advantages, inter-alia, afford students to make personal choices, selections and preferences in the selection of study courses, thus enabling them to gain maximum opportunities for they themselves and their peers.
The online education also serves as the best alternative to formal education at a time the government is in incapable of catering to all students through kindergarten to higher education and beyond. The large number of students who end up as school dropouts without being able to pursue higher education, albeit invariably find themselves in a dire predicament of not having the means and resources to pursue their life-long dreams and aspirations, inter-alia, would naturally resort to online education as an alternative to formal education in their early years in life – as in the case of students who have opted, and continue to embrace online education as the most compelling and sensible alternative.
For all of the above reasons, needless to note that online education seems the most obvious choice for students in pursuit of life-long learning and career ambitions in the absence of state-funded learning opportunities at schools, universities and other institutions of learning, training, higher education, vocational, professional and specialized fields and careers.
Trust the above clarifies
/
Lester / June 15, 2026
Sarath:
“It is highly unfair and hypocritical to expect children to avoid social media when their primary role models, namely parents alike, are deeply hooked, and immersed in social media platforms.”
Social media is usually wrong. I know this first-hand from the stock market.Retail investors try to value a company using some metric that is heavily influenced by their emotions. In fact, as a contrarian investor , you can make good money doing the opposite of retail.
Outside of the market, for many months, people like Prof. Jiang, John Mearsheimer, and Robert Pape were predicting a major war (including a ground invasion) of Iran. Now it looks like Trump & Iran made a peace deal. So dozens of hours wasted listening to the theories of these individuals.
Regarding online learning, yes it’s possible – books/videos/AI – but many students are only interested in passing the exam. Self-learning also requires an IQ above a certain threshold. AI cannot magically replace human stupidity (infinite, as pointed out by Einstein). You cannot educate everyone “equally”; there are biological and other limits.
/
Sarath / June 15, 2026
Leela,
You are spot on, and cannot agree more. Yes it should be a mix of all (human intelligence, AI , traits and school education, self-learning, divine power)
Hope this makes sense
/
leelagemalli / June 15, 2026
Sarath,
thank you again.
I hope our people have the information to make the correct decisions for their children at the right time. Unfortunately, most parents in Sri Lanka today, as far as I know, lack the knowledge necessary to make sound decisions. I’m pretty familiar with it because I’ve recently helped some families there.
/
Sarath / June 16, 2026
Leela,
I think more than the parents, it is the children who seemed to be out of mind nowadays. Of course, it goes without saying that “behind every young child who believes in himself is a parent who believed first”, which seemed to have outlived its true spirit and meaning in this day and age, due to modernization of civil society and rapid pace of digitalization and social barriers. As you rightly pointed out, parents too are seldom outspoken about family / children matters, preferring to keep their opinions private, which itself is part of the problem. Thanks
/
LestersNuts / June 15, 2026
“Outside of the market, for many months, people like Prof. Jiang, John Mearsheimer, and Robert Pape were predicting a major war (including a ground invasion) of Iran.”
Oh really, darling?
Here is what a famous hot-shot investor predicted not nong ago:
“Lester/ November 22, 2024
12 11
. Biden will not allow that, but Trump will. Iran will cease to exist in 2025.”
.
Some people’s predictions whether about stocks or Ayatollahs are better ignored.
/
Sarath / June 15, 2026
Hi Lester,
I’m sorry, my reply meant to you, has erroneously been addressed to Leela, which is copied hereunder for your attention please.
You are spot on, and cannot agree more. Yes it should be a mix of all (human intelligence, AI , traits and school education, self-learning, divine power)
Hope this makes sense
/
Lester / June 15, 2026
Sarath:
As you know, learning is a complex process. Much of it depends on neurological development. Those who have more working memory will learn faster than others. Keeping in mind, IQ is largely inherited , although environment certainly plays a role. Fluid intelligence peaks at around 20 and then goes down (https://news.mit.edu/2015/brain-peaks-at-different-ages-0306). The parents also play a vital role in the early education of the children. They are the ones who create the environment.
These days, we also have to be cognizant of information overdrive . Much of the content on the Internet/social media has no practical value, beyond entertainment. The physicist Feynman remarked that he was lucky to only have encyclopedias at his disposal, as it streamlined his learning. There is some truth to that.
/
leelagemalli / June 16, 2026
Hello Sarath /LS,
.
Drawing on my educational background and postdoctoral research in biomedical engineering, I would argue that learning is not merely a complex process but a dynamic and evolving one, shaped by the interplay of biological development and environmental influences.
/
Lester / June 16, 2026
Claims to have a doctoral degree, but cut and pastes from the AI to hide the bad English.
Which university would accept such a candidate? Probably a reservation candidate in Chennai. 100/100 before the exam starts.
leelagemalli / December 21, 2024
6
13
cont.
Known Punnaku drinkers would continue holding the torch, but the truths becoming clear by day.
https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/the-elite-wants-akd-to-fail-but-failure-is-not-an-option/
/
Sarath / June 16, 2026
Leela / LS
Yes sinequanon, cannot agree more. Thanks
/
Sarath / June 16, 2026
Lester,
You have raised 3 pertinent matters involving (1) a child’s IQ (cognitive function) in his/her success in education and learning, (2) parents role in a child’s upbringing and development to become a mature and responsible adult in later years in life, and (3) child’s internet savvy, social media addiction would not make him/her resourceful adult.
My take on each of these 3 queries is as follows.
(1). Yes, scientific findings confirm that IQ (general cognitive ability) plays a direct, major role in learning and success in education. However, science views it as one of several dynamic factors rather than a single fixed destiny. In fact, latest research has proven that IQ (cognitive function) plays a fundamental, well-documented role in a person’s ability to grasp and understand complex issues and sciences from birth. However, it is just one piece of the puzzle. While it strongly influences how quickly a person grasps abstract concepts, it is heavily supplemented by other equally vital factors. As a matter of fact, the scientists have found scientific evidence linking a person’s IQ and his academic prowess inter-alia working both ways, vice-versa, namely reciprocally. While initial cognitive capacity speeds up the learning of new, complex information, scientific studies also show that education itself enhances cognitive ability, with estimates suggesting every year of schooling can increase IQ scores by several points.
(2). On your second point, namely, on the role of parents in children’s early years of education and growth, of course it is vital for a child’s successful upbringing. Of course, it goes without saying that “behind every young child who believes in himself is a parent who believed first”, which unfortunately appeared to have outlived its true spirit and meaning lately, due to modernization of civil society and rapid pace of digitalization and social barriers. However, judging by what’s been reported in the media of late, it is quite obvious that parents in this day and age are seldom outspoken about family / children matters, preferring to keep their opinions private, which itself is part of the problem.
(3). As a matter of fact, I would tend to compare social media and online education as two sides of the same coin: both use the internet to connect people and share information, but they offer vastly different experiences. One is optimized for rapid engagement and community building, while the other is built for structured learning and skill acquisition. Paradoxically, online education tends to be less invasive than social media; namely it means that online learning environments prioritize directness, clarity, and objective facts, whereas social media platforms naturally foster indirect or ambiguous communication.
Trust the above sheds light on the 3 matters referred to in your comment. Thanks
/
Lester / June 16, 2026
Sarath:
Thanks for your input. Regarding IQ, it is a real phenomenon. If you randomly select 10K people, the distribution will follow a bell curve. That is important because there is a strong correlation between IQ and profession:
https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/$s_!UIOS!,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fsubstack-post-media.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F8e58d174-98c5-4b67-82b2-a3fd1688a20b_3237x2258.jpeg
This is important because there is a correlation between IQ and GDP.
“Previous research has found that there is a statistically significant, positive link between country-level IQ and various measures of aggregate production, such as GDP. “
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S016028961630318X
Higher GDP = higher standard of living, so in a loose sense, a country’s welfare depends on the mean IQ of its citizens.
There is a policy implication here. The government needs to invest significantly more in the best and brightest students. Right now, they have little incentive to stay in S Lanka. They can earn far more as doctors or engineers in the West.
/
Sarath / June 16, 2026
Lester,
Thanks. Yes IQ and GDP have few things in common. It is said more often than not that national average Intelligence Quotients (IQ) and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) are heavily correlated, with cognitive skills acting as an important driver of a country’s economic production, innovation, and institutional trust.
Macroeconomic research explores this connection through specific mechanisms and theories:
1. Individual to National Impact: An individual IQ increase translates to higher wages, but at the national level, it yields an even larger multiplier on overall GDP because smarter groups tend to be more cooperative and patient.
2. The “Smart Fraction” Theory: This theory suggests that a society’s innovation and economic development is disproportionately driven by a “cognitive elite”—a smaller percentage of the population with highly advanced problem-solving capabilities.
3. Reverse Causality: While cognitive skills lead to better economic outcomes, wealth also influences IQ by providing the resources for better nutrition, healthcare, and schooling.
What you have pointed in your comment, viz-a-viz 1, 2 and 3 above indeed makes sense. Thanks
/
Lester / June 17, 2026
Sarath:
Per capita GDP is derived from GDP, so you can draw interesting conclusions. For example, the per capita income of T Nadu (pop. ~77.58 million) is around $4.9K USD for the 2025–26 fiscal year. The per capita income of Singapore (pop. ~6.11 million) is ~$107,760 for a similar period. Keeping in mind, T Nadu is also much more resource-friendly than Singapore, which has 0 natural resources. The average IQ of Singapore is 103.56 while the average IQ of T Nadu is 85-90 according to Data Statistica (https://www.threads.com/@data_statistica/post/DX1635il5KS). Singapore has one of the best educational systems in the world, while T Nadu has a 69% reservation/quota system.
This example confirms 1) “Individual to National Impact” as well as 2. “The Smart Fraction” Theory.” IQ is not the only contributing factor for the discrepancy, but it is certainly one of them.
Regarding 2), Silicon Valley is another good example, as I have explained on CT before.
/
Sarath / June 17, 2026
Lester
Thanks for the update on IQ and GDP stats which speak for themselves. The parallels drawn on IQ and GDP stats in respect of Singapore, and T.Nadu clearly prove your point.
Thanks
/
Lester / June 17, 2026
* The per capita GDP of Singapore (pop. ~6.11 million) is ~$107,760
/
Sarath / June 17, 2026
Lester,
Noted with Thanks
/
LankaScot / June 15, 2026
Hello Sarath,
I see you trying to sneak Religion into the Educational Curriculum. “Yes it should be a mix of all (human intelligence, AI , traits and school education, self-learning, divine power). Since when was “Divine Power” demonstrable? You’ll be calling for Intelligent Design and Young Earth Creationism to be taught instead of Evolution and Geology. You would make a good Christian Apologist. John Washington Butler and William Jennings Bryan would have been proud of you.
I wonder how you feel about this recommendation of the “UN Committee on the Rights of the Child” in 2023 (regarding the UK) that the state: “repeal legal provisions for compulsory attendance in collective worship and establishing statutory guidance to ensure the right of all children, including children under 16 years of age, to withdraw from religious classes without parental consent”?
Best regards
/
Sarath / June 16, 2026
LS
I’m afraid what was meant by “divine power” is nothing but parents’ wish to seek divine blessings for children’s success in education, exam results and what not. Even-though calling for such divine interventions are commonplace today both among village and urban folks, there appears to be no spiritual beleifs / reasoning to prove as to how a deity could directly steps into change or control everyday situations, or human events or the physical world.
On your second point (on the UNCRC recommendation to the UK, amidst calling for “statutory guidance to ensure the right of all children, including children under 16 years of age), the status-quo pertains to the potential friction / tensions prevail between the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and the Catholic doctrine, particularly around parental rights, religious education, and child autonomy. The Catholic Church historically prioritizes parents’ duties to raise children in the faith, whereas the UNCRC emphasizes the evolving capacities and rights of the child. The friction points between the two (UNCRC and Catholic Church doctrine) typically involve specific articles of the UNCRC convention, including Freedom of Religion (Article 14), Parental Guidance (Article 5), Education and Values (Article 29) among other critical points of contention. While the UK ratified the core UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) in 1991, the convention is not fully incorporated into domestic UK law, viz-a-viz justifies the UK stance on the key UNCRC recommendation and why it has not acceded to the Third Optional Protocol to the UNCRC (OPIC), which enables children to submit individual complaints directly to the UN Committee when their rights have been violated.
Hope this clarifies your query.
/
LankaScot / June 16, 2026
Hello Sarath,
“Hope this clarifies your query”. Certainly, I already knew about the resistance to Human Rights in the UK. Back in the 1970s we had people like Mary Whitehouse railing against Children watching TV. “Mary Whitehouse was a prominent British social campaigner who founded the National Viewers’ and Listeners’ Association in 1965. She believed television was responsible for eroding moral standards and strongly campaigned against the “permissive society”, advocating for tight regulation of content to protect children from obscenity, sex, and violence.” –
https://www.bbc.com/news/stories-60556060
Now we have the same arguments by Keir Starmer about Social Media and banning it for the under 16s. I am not a fan of Social Media but that is not the answer. – https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c2kydl0zqeko
That under 16 Generation will remember and take their revenge when they can. In the meantime they are far cleverer than Starmer et al and will find their own way around the ban.
Best regards
/
Sarath / June 16, 2026
LS,
You are loud and clear on UK’s double-speak on HR mantra. In fact the term “Human Rights” is almost like a double-edged knife for the successive British governments (then as well as the current). I do remember during my tenure in UK from 1995-1998 (when UK was battling IRA) the then British government was preaching HR to SL as if they are “sacrosanct”, while complicit in human rights violations of N. Irelanders in broad-day light.
This is typical of the white-man’s hypocrisy viz-a-viz British lawmakers who often than not preach one thing, and do exactly the opposite as in the case of infamous Iraq invasion – on the pretext of WMD, as revealed and exposed in the Chilcot Report. Thanks. We found common ground on UK’s HR mantra. After all, great minds think almost alike.
/
LankaScot / June 16, 2026
Hello Sarath,
A bit of reverse Racism here (if such a thing exists?) “This is typical of the white-man’s hypocrisy”. I accept the epithet of “Sudo Siya” from my Sri Lanka Grandchildren without reservation, however I would object to being called a “Typical White Hypocrite”. We campaigned against Tony Blair’s Hypocrisy and Lies. We held one of the biggest Demonstrations in the UK against the Iraq War as did most European countries – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/15_February_2003_Iraq_War_protests
Even Piers Morgan objected to this War. So please don’t tar us all with the same brush. The Chilcot Inquiry was much delayed and a bit of a Whitewash –
https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2014/may/29/chilcot-inquiry-accused-of-whitewash-over-blair-and-bush-letters
Do you remember this – “The “dodgy dossier” refers to a pair of controversial documents published by Tony Blair’s UK government in 2002 and 2003 to justify military action in Iraq? The term is most commonly associated with a 2003 briefing that was heavily exposed as plagiarized from a graduate student’s academic thesis.” People may have forgotten that this was Alistair Campbell’s doing.
And by the way I have worked with People that were directly involved in Human Rights abuses in Northern Ireland, Eire and the Middle-East.
Best regards
/
leelagemalli / June 16, 2026
Hello Sarath,
Before discussing online education, I would be interested to know what prompted you to focus on this topic at this particular time.
Sri Lanka is currently facing a number of pressing challenges, and many citizens are concerned about issues that directly affect their daily lives. Given these circumstances, it would be useful to understand why online education has been highlighted as a priority.
–
There is also a broader public debate about whether the current government is making sufficient progress on the key promises it made during the election campaign.
Many voters expected improvements in essential areas of governance and public services. Against that backdrop, it is reasonable to ask how proposals such as online education fit into the government’s overall priorities and plans for addressing the country’s more immediate concerns.
/
Sarath / June 16, 2026
Leela,
You are absolutely right. Certainly I am not at all surprised by your “poser”, specially at a time people seemed the least bothered on online education, let alone education for that matter. I am sure, most of them are preoccupied with burning day-today matters such as rising COL, economic woes, social issues and whatnot. I too feel “online education” perhaps is their least concern.
But my decision to write this article on online education is a sheer coincidence, and not at all intentional. Having said that, I too am of the firm opinion that there are very top priority issues one can harp on, and discuss for the benefit of general public. I am completely with you on the mix-up of priorities on my part. But I will definitely focus on the peoples’ priority considerations, and hot topics of peoples interest / concern next time around. Thanks for the pointer and poser.
/
leelagemalli / June 16, 2026
Readers,
I think Sri Lanka should first build the necessary foundations before introducing online education (OE) into schools. During the COVID-19 pandemic, students had to learn from home, but not every family could afford a smartphone or reliable internet access. Before expanding online education, it is important to understand how many students actually have access to the technology they need.
–
In my view, education reforms should not be rushed or implemented halfway. Improving the school system requires long-term national planning and consistent policies that continue across different governments.
–
In the past, some initiatives were disrupted by political protests, including those led by the JVP. Many people saw these protests as a major obstacle to carrying out government plans. Now that the JVP is in government and there is less political opposition, they have a greater opportunity and responsibility to implement their policies effectively and deliver results.
/
Sarath / June 16, 2026
To Readers / Leela,
While I agree with Leela on the first half of his commentary and justification why online education is not a priority for average Sri Lankans at this day and age, I however, beg to differ / disagree with him with the rest of his commentary / reasoning.
First and foremost, online education was introduced, or came into being, in the aftermath on Covid pandemic, as an alternative to formal education, so as to addressing certain uppermost concerns in the minds of students and parents who harbored certain ill-feelings and misgivings about after-effects of pandemic., which is understandable and justifiable.
Judging by its merits, and underlying reasons for the introduction of online education in the first place, nobody would deny the fact online education indeed benefitted students to pursue their life-long career ambitions and prospects at no cost to the state coffers, specially at a time the government of the day ran into serious liquidity problems, in the wake of CBSL bankruptcy, and worst financial doldrums in 2021/2022. Furthermore, online education also has its distinct merits, benefits and advantages, inter-alia, afford students to make personal choices, selections and preferences in the selection of study courses, thus enabling them to pursue their own future aspirations and life-long ambitions at their own terms and free-will, sans burdening the government.
The online education is also perceived to be the best alternative to formal education, at a time the government is seemingly incapable of catering to all students through kindergarten to higher education and beyond. The large number of students who end up as school dropouts at OL and AL exams (without being able to pursue higher education) at state universities, invariably find themselves in a dire predicament of not having the means and resources to pursue their life-long dreams and aspirations. In such circumstances, students who have no other means or alternatives, would naturally resort to online education as an alternative to formal education in their early years in life – as in the case of students who have opted, and continue to embrace online education being the most compelling and sensible alternative.
For all of the above reasons, needless to note that online education seems to be the most obvious choice for students in pursuit of their life-long learning and career ambitions in the absence of state-funded learning opportunities at schools, universities and other institutions of learning, training, higher education, vocational, professional and specialized fields and careers.
Hope this makes sense.
/
leelagemalli / June 17, 2026
Thank you Sarath. While online education offers flexibility and can expand access to learning opportunities, I do not believe that a purely online school system is the best option for most children.
Schools provide much more than academic instruction; they are also important environments for social development. Through daily face-to-face interactions with classmates and teachers, children learn communication skills, teamwork, empathy, and how to navigate different social situations. Educational specialists have long emphasized that these experiences are an essential part of a child’s overall development.
In addition, I have observed that some students at the O-Level stage who attend international schools with extensive online learning options have, in certain cases, performed less strongly in aptitude assessments and term examinations than students educated primarily through conventional classroom settings. While this may not apply to every student, it raises questions about whether a largely online approach can consistently deliver the same academic and developmental benefits as in-person schooling.
–
At the same time, I recognize that online learning can be a valuable complement to traditional schooling. Digital tools can enhance education, provide additional resources, and help students develop skills that will be useful in the future. However, replacing in-person schooling entirely could limit opportunities for social growth and community engagement. In my view, the best approach is a balanced one: continue traditional school education while integrating online learning where it can add value and support students’ academic and personal development.
/
Sarath / June 17, 2026
Leela,
I respect your points of view. Having open, candid and respectful conversation is the best way to explore different angles and learn from each other.
My emphasis on online education is primarily focussed on school dropouts at OL and AL exams and others who are not able to gain admission to universities, higher education institutes and technical colleges and other places of learning. These students therefore have no option but to opt for online education on their own, due to government’s inability to cater to large number of students completing school education and primary and secondary education owing to lack of resources and financial provisions.
Having said that I too am of the view that students ought to be given formal education in schools in their formative years of learning, so as to groom and mould them under the supervision and guidance of qualified teachers in a proper school setting, with knowledge and wisdom to be parted through clearly set-out school curriculum / subjects specially designed to maximize knowledge based learning. Thanks
/
LankaScot / June 17, 2026
Hello Sarath,
“First and foremost, online education was introduced, or came into being, in the aftermath on Covid pandemic”
I don’t think the above is true. Distance Learning has a long History. The Open University UK pioneered this from 1969 which formed the Basis for much of their Degree Programmes.
I completed a PGCE in Adult Education in 1996. My Dissertation was on how the Internet and the World Wide Web would revolutionise the way Education was taught in Schools, Colleges and Universities.
As part of the requirements I was teaching Part-Time at a local College and realised that that the Educational Establishment in England was way behind their Students and Industry in the Application of IT. That was 30 years ago and many Countries are still lagging. But the answer is not to jump in without first learning the Lessons of other Countries and their approach to Online Learning.
It is incumbent upon you as a connected Career Diplomat to use your influence and resources to help Sri Lanka develop Online-Learning in an intelligent way. The UK has had many Government IT Disasters – https://beyondcommandandcontrol.com/library/failures-of-change/examples-of-large-scale-it-failure-in-the-public-sector/
I know because I have direct experience with some of them.
Best regards
/
Sarath / June 17, 2026
LS
Read this article titled ” The Post-Pandemic’s Digital Learning Landscape” filed by
AASA ( the Schools Superintendents Association) which makes it abundantly clear the fact online education came into being in the aftermath.
If you have any doubts, please read the maiden paragraph of the article which is reproduced below, for ease of reference.
—————————–
“When the COVID-19 pandemic hit suddenly in March 2020, most schools in the United States pivoted to remote learning. In a matter of days, teachers and students who had little or no experience with distance learning were forced into remote learning while navigating the emerging pandemic’s chaotic unknowns.
————————————–
Link for the full article is below.
https://www.aasa.org/resources/resource/post-pandemic-digital-learning-landscape#:~:text=For%20many%20students%20and%20staff,districts%20can%20explore%20several%20options.
Hope this sheds light on the birth of inline education. Of course as you have pointed out, certain education courses in Sri Lanka (for instance OUSL) would have conducted distance learning courses, well before before Covid pandemic in 2020-21. but these distance learning study courses are identical to online education. I myself did a distance learning diploma with NIBM in 1991-92 with Ms Deraniyagala was at the helm at NIBM. But let me note these distance learning study courses are not the same “online education” as popularly called and known today.
The fact of the matter is that “online education” in itself is completely knew to school students, anywhere in the world, and that school going students never had any opportunity or avenues to explore online education from early childhood up until pandemic in 2020-21.
Even then there were no online schools operating in Sri Lanka offering British and American curricula for all grades until pandemic outbreak, similar to the ones that are operating now throughout the country with international collaboration and affiliations with international schools and foreign universities offering hybrid courses and degree programs.
That’s the difference between now and then.
Thanks
/
leelagemalli / June 17, 2026
Hello Sarath,
.
I thought I would suggest a few topics for your future articles. Perhaps they may be of some help.
–
I believe these issues are particularly timely, given the manner in which a large majority of Sri Lankan voters supported the NPP during recent elections, while many people now appear disappointed with its performance and perceived lack of capability in addressing the country’s challenges. In my view, a significant number of voters were influenced by powerful political rhetoric and extensive criticisms directed at previous political leaders. Subsequent public debates and court proceedings have, at times, raised questions about the accuracy or extent of some of those allegations. Whether one agrees or disagrees with these observations, they highlight the importance of encouraging a more informed, analytical, and fact-based political culture.
–
I do not have the time to write in detail on these topics at the moment, as I am mainly commenting on articles published in this forum. However, I would like to draw your attention to the following issues, which I believe deserve greater discussion and analysis. I hope writers and contributors will consider addressing them in future articles for the benefit of the people of Sri Lanka.
1. The Influence of Gossip and Hearsay
–
Why is it that many people are often influenced more by gossip, rumors, and hearsay than by verifiable facts and evidence? What social, cultural, or educational factors contribute to this tendency, and how can society be encouraged to value critical thinking and fact-based decision-making?
Tbc
/
Sarath / June 17, 2026
Leela,
Thanks for the heads up and for your pointers. Appreciate your pro-active stance in proposing topics of contemporary interest and concern for the vast majority of ordinary voters / people in the country. I would certainly give my priority consideration for the topics you have raised in my future write-ups. Thanks
/
leelagemalli / June 17, 2026
cont.
2. Challenges in Social Change and Public Awareness
Why is it so difficult to bring about positive social change, even when such change is clearly in the public interest? Greater awareness, education, and civic responsibility are essential if citizens are to become informed and empowered voters. Only then can they elect capable, visionary, and accountable leaders. I believe Sri Lankan society needs significant rebuilding and reform in order to achieve long-term progress and prosperity.
–
3. The Relationship Between Religion and Politics
Religion and politics should remain separate, while preserving every individual’s right to freely choose and practice their religion. People should be encouraged to evaluate political issues through reason, evidence, and informed judgment rather than through religious bias or superstition. A healthy democracy requires citizens who can distinguish between matters of faith and matters of governance.
–
These are important subjects that deserve thoughtful discussion and public debate. I hope writers and researchers will explore them further and contribute ideas that can help strengthen society and improve the future of our homeland.
/
Sarath / June 17, 2026
Leela,
I certainly value your suggestions and topics proposed for my future write-ups. which I would seriously consider in the coming weeks and months. Regards
/
Sarath / June 17, 2026
Leela,
By the way I forgot to mention the fact that there are enough and more people who often touch upon the topics you have refereed to. Having already replied to your points of view earlier on, it’s worth noting the fact I hardly see articles being published on education, youth, civil and religious liberties etc which too seem important from peoples’ point of view. That being said, I will certainly consider writing on the topics you suggested in future. Thanks
/
Lester / June 17, 2026
Sarath,
“For all of the above reasons, needless to note that online education seems to be the most obvious choice for students in pursuit of their life-long learning and career ambitions in the absence of state-funded learning opportunities at schools.”
Online education may be good for subjects like maths, physics, English, commerce, and now computer programming. However, if one wishes to be a doctor or any kind of engineer (excluding software), laboratory work is rather important. The famous mathematician Terrence Tao pointed out that ChatGPT understands maths at a level equal to a post-graduate student. That means ChatGPT is better at maths than at least 90% of the world’s population.
The real difficulty, as of right now, is not that ChatGPT or Gemini can’t teach difficult subjects. The issue is one of communication. You have to ask the interesting questions by yourself. But to ask interesting questions requires a certain level of experience as well as creativity. I can ask ChatGPT good questions about sets, empty sets, the power set, etc. But that is because I learned these things many years ago from a human teacher + book.
/
Sarath / June 17, 2026
Lester,
Certainly you hit the nail on the head. In doing so, you have taken “online education” to a completely new paradigm.
In fact online education has since evolved from rigid, pre-recorded video lectures into highly adaptive, community-driven ecosystems. Driven by AI tutors, AR/VR immersive training, and stackable micro-credentials, the modern digital learning paradigm focuses heavily on personalized, hands-on transformation rather than just passive information consumption.The shift has completely disrupted traditional models through several key innovations, inter-alia, the following are noteworthy.
1)AI-Driven Personalization: AI functions as an always-on digital mentor, adapting curricula to your specific learning pace, knowledge gaps, and career goals in real-time.
2) Immersive Technologies: Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR) allow for practical, hands-on training and simulations that were once strictly confined to physical labs.
3)Community-Based Learning: Platforms are moving away from solitary video-watching in favor of cohort-based models, group workshops, and collaborative thinking spaces.
4) Micro-learning & Stackable Credentials: Rather than committing to multi-year degrees, learners can now earn specialized, career-relevant micro-certifications that directly address fast-moving labor market demands.
Given the above, online education has evolved so much, and encompasses hitherto unknown and untouched paradigms / areas referred to in your comment.
Hope this makes sense. Thanks
/
Lester / June 17, 2026
(cont)
In fact, if you do a search of social media, you will find that a very large % of students these days are not using ChatGPT to enhance learning, but to cheat . Even on CT, some are copying and pasting without giving any reference.
The answer to the education problem may not necessarily be more education, but less education . Someone does not need 16 years of formal education to become an accountant. Outside of STEM degrees, 12-14 years should be sufficient.
Online learning tools are fantastic. But as I said before, the primary concern of most students is passing an exam, not deep learning. Those with high IQ’s will benefit more from online learning tools, as the online learning tool is likely more knowledgeable than their public school teacher, as we discussed before. They are in a position to ask “interesting questions.” So in the final analysis, a substantial number of students will benefit more from the structured environment of a classroom, where the (human) teacher enforces discipline. With the caveat that this classroom is focused on getting them ready for the job market, whatever the task: cook, accountant, human rights champion, politician, dancer, etc.
/
Sarath / June 17, 2026
Lester,
1) On your comment / emphasis on formal class-room education, I am completely with you on your candid assessment. There are no parallels to “formal classroom education” whatsoever, being the prime driver for kids’ formative years of learning, with hands-on learning experiences, guided by experienced and knowledgable teachers, in a formal setting and holistic environment with spirited approach etc.
2) There’s no gainsaying that formal education supports kids from Grade 1 and offers well-grounded knowledge and learning experience, as they are exposed to a proper form of learning in schools from year 1 – 10 (OL), and then up to AL.
3) But the the million-dollar question remains in the minds of parents and kids alike, is viz-a-viz where would they go from there, specially those who are aspiring to become doctors, engineers, lawyers, accountants and other professionals etc etc.
4) That’s when one would be thinking of switching to online education as the government cannot afford to grant opportunities to all college drop outs, and those who leave school education after OL and AL.
5) That’s precisely why I am harping on online education specifically for those who tend to get lost after OL and AL.
Does that make sense. Thanks
/
Lester / June 17, 2026
Sarath:
” specially those who are aspiring to become doctors, engineers, lawyers, accountants and other professionals etc etc.”
Yes, if the child/student is motivated, then the online learning tools can be very effective. However, it is not necessarily as fast as some may imagine. The content of many videos, such as the excellent IIT/NPTEL that you find on YT, is rather condensed. It’s impossible to contact the lecturer for an explanation. So then the only option may be to ask the AI for an explanation. While this may yield a positive outcome, the total time involved may be several hours (extremely common in STEM subjects), just to fully master a single video.
The other point is assessment. How do you ensure competency?
/
Sarath / June 17, 2026
Lester,
Further to my comments on your queries on formal education v-z-a-viz ChatGPT and online education.
In my (two) previous comments earlier on, I forgot to mention the fact online education, besides its own merits and unparalleled opportunities, viz-a-viz tend to offer added advantages and benefits to students, thus exposing them to the-state- of-the-art AI, IT and advanced online platforms, tools, latest AI and online platforms, which would make them tech-savvy, highly skilled, innovative, sophisticated IT experts and prime movers in the IT and AI fields, enabling them to seek most-sought-after opportunities within and without.
By the way, advanced online tools eliminate the need for heavy software installations by operating directly in students web browsers. They range from multi-purpose utility hubs to highly specialized IT and data processors, making complex administrative, design, and technical tasks accessible instantly. The students therefore would benefit enormously by switching to online education in pursuit of their ambitious interests, and career prospects in an array of spheres of education.
Hope this answers your pointers. Thanks
/
Lester / June 17, 2026
” enabling them to seek most-sought-after opportunities within and without.”
That is true. Someone can learn IT/programming from a website like “Udemy”, then “freelance” on a website like Fiverr and earn in USD, while still living in S Lanka. Although in principle, it is better to go to the uni first, as there are certain advantages to being exposed to the full curriculum. Also, freelancing in itself is competitive. You have to market your ability, while competing with others for jobs. Income may not be steady. For example, IT (since you mention it) is saturated with Indians. There are many of them on freelancing websites.
I mention freelancing/contract work, since that is the most likely option if students move away from traditional uni. By going to the uni, you can network/attend job fairs and obtain professional employment with a good company.
/