Senior Professor Aminda Methsila of Wayamba University has issued a stark warning that Sri Lanka is likely to face multiple crises in the future due to a significant demographic shift observed over the past three decades — a steady decline in the male population ratio and a corresponding increase in the female population ratio.
According to Professor Methsila, the male-to-female ratio, which stood at 100.2 males for every 100 females in 1995, has now reversed. Current statistics indicate that there are only 93.7 males for every 100 females in the country.
He further noted that this shift is evident even within the university system, where the percentage of female students has increased across almost all academic disciplines, with the exception of a few programs in engineering and technology. The professor also highlighted a growing trend of women entering the workforce at higher rates than men.
Professor Methsila warned that this gender imbalance may lead to challenges in employment sectors traditionally dominated by men, as the availability of male labor continues to dwindle. He also pointed out that a significant portion of Sri Lanka’s male workforce has migrated overseas, further aggravating the issue.
He emphasized that the current economic situation in the country has had a direct impact on this demographic trend. In light of these developments, Professor Methsila stressed the urgent need for robust government intervention to prevent this emerging crisis from escalating further.
— Nandana Sri Dorakumbura
