Asanga Buwaneka Divulwewa

  How Debt Restructuring Impacts the Economy in Sri Lanka   Introduction Debt restructuring is a financial strategy used by countries facing significant debt burdens to renegotiate terms with creditors. This process can involve extending payment deadlines, reducing interest rates, or even reducing the principal amount owed. For Sri Lanka, a nation grappling with economic instability, debt restructuring has become a crucial tool for managing its financial challenges. This article explores the impacts of debt restructuring on Sri Lanka's economy, delving into both the short-term and long-term consequences. Historical Context of Sri Lanka’s Debt Sri Lanka's debt issues have been escalating over the past decades. The country’s debt-to-GDP ratio has been on a worrying upward trajectory, driven by various factors including persistent budget deficits, high public expenditure, and substantial borrowing for infrastructure projects. The 2019 Easter bombings and the subsequent ...

  Old English Literature: A Glimpse into the Past   Old English literature, also known as Anglo-Saxon literature, is the body of written works produced in England from the 5th century to the Norman Conquest in 1066. This period, spanning over six centuries, is marked by a rich tapestry of poetry, prose, and religious texts that provide invaluable insights into the early medieval English society, its values, culture, and worldview. Historical and Cultural Context The Anglo-Saxon period began with the migration of Germanic tribes—the Angles, Saxons, and Jutes—to the British Isles after the departure of the Roman legions. This migration brought with it a new language, Old English, which would form the basis of much of the literature produced in this era. The society was predominantly oral, with storytelling, poetry, and songs being the primary means of preserving and transmitting knowledge and culture. Literacy was limited, and much of the written work was produced by cle...

  Family Values: The Cornerstone of Society Family values, a term often invoked in discussions about social stability, morality, and cultural identity, are the principles and ideals that guide the interactions and behaviours within a family unit. These values form the foundation of a harmonious society, shaping individuals from their earliest days and influencing their actions throughout their lives. In a world characterized by rapid change and evolving social norms, the concept of family values remains a vital touchstone for maintaining a sense of continuity, stability, and community. The Foundation of Family Values At the heart of family values lies the commitment to nurturing and supporting each member of the family. This commitment manifests in various ways, from the love and affection parents show their children to the respect and care children provide their elders. The foundational values include love, respect, responsibility, and loyalty. These principles are taught an...

  How Healthy Wetland Ecosystems Could Reduce the Risk of Dengue Dengue fever, caused by the dengue virus and transmitted primarily by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, poses a significant public health challenge in many tropical and subtropical regions. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that nearly half of the world's population is at risk of dengue, with approximately 100 million infections occurring annually. Traditional mosquito control methods, such as insecticide spraying and elimination of breeding sites, have been only partially effective. An emerging body of research suggests that healthy wetland ecosystems could play a crucial role in reducing the risk of dengue. By understanding and leveraging the ecological functions of wetlands, we can develop more sustainable and effective strategies to combat this disease. Wetlands as Natural Mosquito Regulators Wetlands are dynamic ecosystems that provide a range of ecological services, including water purification, flood cont...

  Whither Free Education: A Global Examination Education has long been heralded as the great equalizer, a means by which individuals can improve their socioeconomic status, innovate, and contribute to societal advancement. The concept of free education, whereby access to schooling is provided without direct costs to students and their families, has been a cornerstone in this vision of equitable opportunity. Yet, in today's complex and rapidly changing world, the question "Whither free education?" prompts a critical examination of its current state and future trajectory. The Ideal of Free Education The ideal of free education is rooted in the belief that every child, regardless of their background, deserves access to quality learning. This principle is enshrined in numerous international agreements, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set forth by the United Nations. These documents underscore education as a fund...

  Honouring Parents: A Timeless Virtue   Honouring one's parents is a principle deeply rooted in various cultures and religions across the globe. This timeless virtue is not only a moral obligation but also a fundamental aspect of maintaining family bonds and societal harmony. It encompasses respect, gratitude, and support for the people who brought us into the world and nurtured us. This article explores the significance of honouring parents, its various expressions, and its impact on individuals and society. The Cultural and Religious Roots The importance of honouring parents is enshrined in many cultural traditions and religious doctrines. In the Judeo-Christian tradition, the Fifth Commandment explicitly states, "Honor your father and your mother," emphasizing it as a divine mandate. Similarly, Confucian philosophy, which has profoundly influenced East Asian cultures, places filial piety at the core of ethical behavior. Confucius taught that respecting and car...

  The Significance of Poson   Poson, one of the most revered Buddhist festivals in Sri Lanka, marks a pivotal event in the island nation's history and spiritual life. Celebrated annually on the full moon day of June, Poson commemorates the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BCE by Arahat Mahinda, the son of the Indian Emperor Ashoka. This event profoundly shaped Sri Lanka's cultural, spiritual, and social landscape, embedding Buddhism into the heart of the nation's identity. Historical Background The genesis of Poson is rooted in the remarkable tale of how Buddhism found its way to Sri Lanka. According to historical chronicles, during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa, the ruling monarch of Sri Lanka, Emperor Ashoka of India dispatched his son, Arahat Mahinda, to spread the teachings of Buddhism. Arahat Mahinda, along with his entourage, arrived at Mihintale, a mountain near the ancient capital of Anuradhapura. It was here that the historic e...