SAARC for vibrant S. Asia

Rasika Somarathna

COLOMBO: The second meeting of the Technical Committee on Human Resource Development in the SAARC countries got off the ground last Tuesday, with the intention of fulfilling the vision of an economically prosperous and vibrant South Asia, through the development of its Human resource capability.

The committee is to deliberate and exchange frank and meaningful views on various subjects, pertaining to development of Human Resource capability in the region under the regional integrated programme of action.

In addition the member countries is to review the ongoing activities and progress in the implementation of decisions of the first meeting.The committee is to formulate an action plan at the end of deliberations under the RIPA, to address issues on HR development, education, culture, sports and skills development.

Education Minister Susil Premajayanth Inaugurating the session said "SAARC region has a deep and rich history, that draws inspiration from a mosaic of diverse and rich plurality of cultural, linguistic, philosophical and spiritual traditions. This heritage include giving birth to and nurturing three of the worlds noblest religious traditions".

"Yet there are challenges. Although we account for 1/5th of humanity, a large number languishes in poverty and ignorance. We could overcome this with proper education. Education is such an integral part of HR development" Premajayanth said.

According to the Minister, in 2003 Sri Lanka was ranked 99th place in the Human development index and has steadily risen in rankings to be placed as 93rd in last year.The Minister stressed the importance of going further with the help of other SAARC Nations.

"I firmly believe that a healthy educated and emancipated population living in dignity constitutes one of the most essential solid foundations. This enables sustainable economic development and true prosperity, which could be achieved, through better cooperation in our SAARC region," Premajayanth added.

According to the Minister Sri Lanka has one of the highest indexes on the UN Human Resource Development index in the region, with literacy over 90%. Sri Lanka's Human Resource Development ranks with the leading industrialised Nations that have made significant headway in this area. The World Bank has ranked Sri Lanka far ahead of other SAARC and Asian counterparts in human resources.

Outside the realm of education the forum is to discuss issues in HR development with regards to economic reforms, job creation, investments, technology etc., with the intention of opening up physical, economic and political space in the region, to ensure prosperity through Human Resource development.