Former University of Peradeniya psychology lecturer and experienced counsellor Asanka Jayarathne emphasized the importance of practical skills and behavior over academic credentials in measuring true education. Speaking at a certificate-awarding ceremony for 50 students who completed their studies in the 2025/2026 academic year at the Nuwara Eliya Nana Sarana Educational Institute, Jayarathne highlighted the role of parents in preparing children with the necessary skills to navigate the world confidently.

“Education should not be defined solely by certificates,” Jayarathne said, adding that the responsibility of parents goes beyond imparting academic knowledge to include nurturing creativity and practical abilities. He stressed that a child’s behavior and actions ultimately reflect their education.

The event took place in Nuwara Eliya, a region traditionally more focused on agriculture than formal education. Jayarathne pointed out that many in the community equate material wealth—such as owning large homes and multiple vehicles—with success, rather than valuing the broader perspective that education offers.

Shelton Hettiarachchi, who also spoke at the event, underscored the paradox between Sri Lanka’s extensive educational infrastructure and its current societal progress. Citing the presence of 17 universities and over 10,000 schools producing approximately 40,000 graduates annually, Hettiarachchi observed that the country’s development remained stagnant.

“This signals that something is amiss,” Hettiarachchi said, calling for a swift evaluation of the factors hindering national advancement despite the high number of educational institutions and graduates. Both speakers emphasized the need for education to transcend academic qualifications and connect more directly with social and economic realities.