IntroductionEconomic Overview
3. Educated and Adaptable Workforce
In 2010, Sri Lanka possessed the most literate population in South Asia and one of the highest in the developing world with a literacy rate of 91.9% (90.8% and 93.2% respectively for females and males).
Extensive investment in public education has produced a workforce that is not only competent but intelligent, trainable and comfortable with high tech production and services.
Approximately 50% of the students who have completed higher education are trained in technical and business disciplines. English is widely spoken and is the main language used by the business community.
Well educated and energetic, skilled and semi-skilled human resources are readily available at competitive wage rates.
Wage Rates - 2011 |
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| Country | Min. Wage (USD /Month) |
Factory Worker Monthly Base Salary (USD /Month) |
| Bangladesh | 64 | 78 |
| Sri Lanka | 60 | 141 |
| Pakistan | 78 | 193 |
| Vietnam | 95 | 111 |
| India | 98 | 264 |
| Indonesia | 167 | 209 |
| Thailand | 136 | 286 |
Source : Investment related costs in Asia and Oceania, 22nd Survey, JETRO, 2012 |
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Literacy Rates of Selected Asian Countries in 2011 |
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| Country | Literacy Rate % | World Ranking |
| Thailand | 94.1 | 84 |
| Indonesia | 92 | 94 |
| Malaysia | 92.5 | 92 |
| Sri Lanka | 94.2 | 83 |
| Vietnam | 92.8 | 91 |
| India | 74.1 | 139 |
| Bangladesh | 55.9 | 164 |
| Pakistan | 62.2 | 159 |
Source : UNDP Report, 2011 |
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