In brief
Sri Lanka's Department of Census and Statistics reports that only 38.1% of the population aged 5‑69 can independently use a computer, down from 38.4% a year earlier. Digital literacy—using phones and tablets independently—is high at 72.5%, and internet usage stands at 63.9%. The findings highlight a gap between computer and mobile competence.
COLOMBO, Nov. 5 – Sri Lanka’s Department of Census and Statistics announced that only 38.1% of people aged 5 to 69 can use a computer, a slight decline from last year’s 38.4%.
The Department’s Computer Literacy Statistics Bulletin for the first six months of 2026 confirms this drop, underscoring a persistent gap in Computer Literacy across the country.
Xinhua reports that digital literacy, defined as independent use of smartphones and tablets, is significantly higher at 72.5%—a figure that appears only in that report.
According to Xinhua, internet usage has risen to 63.9% from 60.4% in the corresponding period of 2025, while email usage modestly climbs to 21.9%.
Smartphones account for 80.9% of devices used to access the internet or email, compared with 17.1% for desktops and laptops, illustrating the country's reliance on mobile technology.
These statistics highlight the need for targeted training to bridge the gap between basic computer skills and the high mobile‑centric Internet engagement among Sri Lankans.
Meanwhile, the census data may inform government policy on digital education initiatives that can elevate overall digital empowerment.
