The Hon. Sunil Kumara Gamage - Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports

¶ 01 Hon. Speaker, on August 12, the 25th International Youth Day was celebrated. As Government and as the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, we convened a special National Youth Conference under the patronage of the President at the Sugathadasa Indoor Sports Complex.

¶ 02 This year’s theme was “Local Youth Actions for the Sustainable Development Goals and Beyond.” This aligns well with our Government’s vision for youth. We firmly believe youth must be the present stewards on our journey to a prosperous country—both as leaders and principal beneficiaries.

¶ 03 The UN’s Sustainable Development Goals introduced in 2015, aiming at 2030, ultimately target improving lives and protecting the environment. Our youth policy and “smart” concept aim to nurture better lives with the environment integral to life—building advanced young men and women. Our goal is not only to build the future but to build a future-ready generation. The world is advancing rapidly; a country’s youth are the mosaic of its past, present, and future. The past cannot be changed, but our youth were denied their rightful place, particularly in jobs, politics, and leadership, largely due to the old political culture. We are now filling that gap and laying a strong foundation to build a new generation equipped with knowledge and attitudes to anticipate the future.

¶ 04 Creative, energetic, knowledge-rich youth at home and abroad are being offered opportunities. We invite you openly to take your place in building a prosperous country. Best wishes!