Dr. Sarath Obeysekera, former Managing Director of Colombo Dockyard PLC, has released a new book titled *Engineering, Industry and the Future of Sri Lanka*, which presents a comprehensive analysis of the country’s economic development through the lens of engineering and industrial capability. The volume compiles 55 articles previously published in national newspapers, offering a detailed critique of Sri Lanka’s approach to industrialization, productivity, and national progress.
The core argument advanced by Dr. Obeysekera is that Sri Lanka’s economic sustainability hinges on strengthening its industrial and engineering sectors. He emphasizes the need to transform ideas, resources, and opportunities into productive economic activity to secure the nation’s future. His insights draw heavily on his extensive professional experience, which includes leadership roles at Colombo Dockyard and the Sri Lanka Land Reclamation Board, as well as involvement in the country’s oil and gas sector.
A distinguishing feature of the book is its focus on actionable solutions rather than merely identifying problems. Dr. Obeysekera addresses multiple dimensions of industrial development, such as vocational education, investment, marine industry, and engineering innovation. He insists that while Sri Lanka has produced numerous policies and committee reports, weak implementation remains the country’s main impediment to progress. Strengthening public institutions, improving workplace productivity, enhancing export earnings, and fostering investor confidence are priorities he highlights.
Vocational and technical skills development is another recurrent theme in the book. Dr. Obeysekera argues that industrial growth requires not only engineers and managers but also a competent workforce of technicians and craftsmen. He urges policymakers, educators, and industry leaders to align human capital development closely with industrial needs to build a skilled labor base capable of supporting the country’s ambitions.
Though the title primarily appeals to those in engineering and industrial sectors, the content is relevant to a broader audience, including policymakers, entrepreneurs, economists, academics, and recent graduates. The book arrives at a crucial moment as Sri Lanka moves beyond economic stabilization efforts towards seeking long-term transformation of its economy.
Dr. Obeysekera’s practitioner perspective adds significant weight to the book’s contributions, grounding its recommendations in real-world experience rather than academic theory alone. While some of his views may provoke debate, the book’s overarching message is clear: Sri Lanka must engage in a serious national dialogue about building a productive, technologically capable economy to overcome current challenges and sustain future prosperity.
*Engineering, Industry and the Future of Sri Lanka* is positioned as essential reading for those interested in how the nation can not only recover from its economic difficulties but also lay the foundation for enduring industrial and technological development.