SL knowledge Hub

Literacy in Sri Lanka 1. Overall Literacy Rate National literacy rate: ** 92%–96%* One of the highest literacy rates in South Asia. Sri Lanka is often cited as a model for developing nations due to its success in education. 2. Gender Parity Male literacy rate: \~96% Female literacy rate: \~ 94–95% Very small gender gap, with ongoing efforts to promote female education. 3. Government Contributions Free education since 1945 – from primary to university level in state institutions. Emphasis on universal access , especially in rural and disadvantaged areas. Strong network of public schools and universitie. 4. Regional Disparities Urban areas: Highest literacy rates. Rural areas: Slightly lower, but still strong. Estate/plantation sector: Lower literacy due to historical socioeconomic disadvantages, though improving. 5. Language Literacy Sinhala and Tamil are the official languages. Most citizens are literate in one or both. English literacy is lower but improving due to integration into s...

Early Beginnings (1923–1925) 1923: Radio broadcasting began in Ceylon just three years after the first radio broadcast in the UK. The first experimental broadcast was made by Colombo Radio  using equipment from a captured German submarine from World War I. This broadcast made Sri Lanka the f irst country in South Asia  and second in Asia  (after Japan) to begin radio transmissions. Establishment of Regular Broadcasting (1925) 16 December 1925: Official radio broadcasting started under the name Colombo Radio.  Programming included news, music, and talks in English , Sinhala , and Tamil. Ceylon Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) In the 1940s and 1950s, the station came under British control and was named Radio Ceylon. Radio Ceylon became Asia’s most popular radio station  during the 1950s and 1960s, especially famous for its entertainment and music shows, broadcasting to millions across South Asia. Famous personalities such as Vernon Corea , Livy Wijemanne , and Karu...