Are We Educating the Next Digital Generation?

The Smart Generation or the Struggling One?

In today’s world, technology is part of everyday life. From online classes to mobile apps, the way we learn, and work is changing fast. That’s why IT has become an important subject in schools. In Sri Lanka, students start learning IT from Grade 6, covering basics like typing, internet use, and presentations. Some schools even teach simple coding and design. The COVID-19 lockdowns highlighted just how important digital skills are for students.

Current Situation in Sri Lanka

In today’s world, having a computer, tablet, or smartphone and a good internet connection is just as important as having a school bag. But in many parts of Sri Lanka, not every student has these things. Some families cannot afford a personal device for each child. In some rural areas, even internet signals are weak or unavailable. While some students can easily join online classes, watch YouTube lessons, or search for information, others struggle to even get connected.

Some families cannot afford a personal device for each child. In some rural areas, even internet signals are weak or unavailable. While some students can easily join online classes, watch YouTube lessons, or search for information, others struggle to even get connected..

How Schools & the Curriculum Are (or Aren’t) Adapting

Some schools in Sri Lanka have started using digital tools in the classroom. The Ministry of Education is updating the curriculum to include digital skills and even Artificial Intelligence (AI) from Grade 8. In certain urban schools, students now use smart boards and online platforms for learning.

However, many rural schools still lack proper ICT facilities. Most students only get access to computers during ICT periods, and the equipment is often outdated. Even when training is offered, many teachers don’t feel fully confident using digital tools in their lessons. So, while the move toward digital learning has begun, it’s not yet equal across the country. 

Challenges Faced by Sri Lankan Students 

Many students in Sri Lanka still face big challenges when it comes to digital learning. A large number of families cannot afford personal devices like laptops or tablets, and internet access at home is limited or unavailable—especially in rural areas. Even if a student has a smartphone, slow connections or lack of mobile data make it hard to join online lessons or do digital assignments.

Another issue is that not all teachers are well-trained in ICT. Some don’t feel confident teaching with technology or guiding students in using it properly. On top of that, many students struggle with English, which is often the main language used in digital platforms. They also lack practical skills like coding, digital research, and online safety. These gaps can make students feel left behind in a fast-moving digital world.

“I’ve seen students who didn’t do well in exams still go on to succeed in ICT careers by self-learning online. That’s something we should support more as a country....

Not every student fits the exam-focused system, but they can still become digitally skilled and job-ready if we guide them the right way"

What Needs to Change

To get ready for a digital future, technology should be used in all school subjects, not just ICT. Students should learn to use digital tools in areas like science, maths, and art. This helps make technology a normal part of learning.

Teachers and students also need proper training. Students should learn skills like online safety, research, and basic coding. Teachers must feel confident using technology in class. Most importantly, internet should be cheap or free for students who can’t afford it—because without access, learning with tech isn’t possible.

Senior ICT teacher at my school Mrs. Sandani Hettiarachchi shared,  “Unlike in the past, many districts in Sri Lanka now have more access to digital devices like smartphones and tablets, Although many schools, especially in rural areas, still lack fully equipped ICT labs or enough computers, students today are finding ways to connect and learn using the devices they already have.”

She explained that digital literacy is not only about using a computer in an ICT lab—it’s about understanding how to learn, research, and create using any digital tool available. “I’ve seen students who didn’t do well in exams still go on to succeed in ICT careers by self-learning online. That’s something we should support more as a country,” she said.

She also stressed the need for better pathways in the school system for students who are interested in ICT. “We need a clearer academic field or stream within A/L ICT that allows students to explore different areas like software development, networking, AI, or even digital art. Not every student fits the exam-focused system, but they can still become digitally skilled and job-ready if we guide them the right way.”

Training is key to building a digitally literate generation. Many teachers still lack the confidence to use technology in class, and students need more than just access. They should be taught how to use digital tools like research, coding, and online safety through hands-on learning. When both teachers and students are trained well, digital education becomes truly effective.

In today’s fast-changing world, digital literacy is no longer a choice it’s a need. While Sri Lankan students are slowly moving toward a digital future, there is still much to improve. With better access, training, and support, they can be truly ready to succeed in a tech-driven world.

By Senina Weerasinghe