Sri Lanka’s rapidly changing population structure requires a strengthened and more responsive health management system, according to Professor Manori Weeratunga, President of the Sri Lanka Society of Population Scientists.
Professor Weeratunga made these remarks recently (27) while addressing the Annual Population Conference 2026 organised by the Sri Lanka Society of Population Scientists at the Sirimavo Bandaranaike Conference Hall in Colombo.
The conference was held under the theme “Population Dynamics: Challenges and Opportunities,” bringing together scholars, policymakers, development professionals, researchers and students to examine key population issues affecting Sri Lanka and the wider region.
Addressing the gathering, Professor Weeratunga said the conference aimed to promote evidence-based dialogue that could contribute to the national development process. She noted that discussions at the event would focus on emerging demographic trends and their broader social and economic implications.
She pointed out that Sri Lanka’s population structure is undergoing a significant transformation, with nearly 18 percent of the population now aged 60 years and above. According to her, this reflects a clear and accelerating trend of population ageing in the country.
Professor Weeratunga also highlighted that Sri Lanka has achieved notable progress in increasing life expectancy over the years. However, she stressed that the national priority should now shift towards improving healthy life expectancy and addressing the rising burden of chronic non-communicable diseases.
She further emphasised the importance of adopting healthier lifestyles to prevent disease, noting that prevention remains a key element in maintaining population health. At the same time, she warned that there are significant gaps in the early detection of illnesses and the regular monitoring of health conditions, areas that require urgent attention within the country’s healthcare system.
