In brief
The Department of Census and Statistics (DCS) released data showing a modest decline in computer literacy to 38.1%, below 40% for the first time, even as mobile‑based digital literacy hits 72.5%. Internet access grew to 63.9% of the population, but email usage remains low at 21.9%. Provincial variations reveal a high of 47.6% in the Western Province and a low of 27.5% in the North Central Province.
The Department of Census and Statistics (DCS) declared on Tuesday that only 38.1% of Sri Lankans aged five to 69 can use a computer independently, a slight dip from 38.4% in the same period of 2025. Nearly 62% of the surveyed age group thus lack basic computer skills, according to the DCS Computer Literacy Statistics Bulletin for the first half of 2026. The figures were released in Colombo after the department compiled data from the country’s most recent national census.
Census Findings
The bulletin also highlighted that digital literacy—defined as the ability to use smartphones and tablets without assistance—stands at 72.5%, far higher than the computer literacy rate. While mobile connectivity is evident, internet usage rose to 63.9% of the population, up from 60.4% in 2025. Email usage only saw a modest increase, climbing to 21.9% from the previous period’s figure.
Smartphones are the dominant device for online activities, accounting for 80.9% of all internet or email access, with only 17.1% of users employing desktops or laptops. The data, released by the DCS, does not provide a detailed explanation for the declining computer skill levels, but the report suggests a widening divide between mobile and desktop usage across the country’s age groups.
Provincial Disparities
Additional coverage from the Daily Mirror and Hiru News reported that computer literacy rates vary significantly by province. The Western Province leads with 47.6% of its residents able to use a computer, while the North Central Province lags behind at 27.5%. The DCS bulletin notes that overall computer proficiency remains low nationwide, but the stark provincial differences raise questions about regional access to technology training and infrastructure.
The DCS has not yet released policy recommendations or targeted interventions in response to the findings. While the census identified the decline, it has left open several questions about the root causes, such as the distribution of computer education in schools, availability of affordable desktops, and the impact of mobile internet penetration on digital skill development. Analysts are now asking whether the current education system and public service initiatives are adequately addressing these gaps, and whether a national strategy for computer literacy could double the current rate in the coming years.
As Sri Lanka seeks to advance its digital economy, the data points to a critical need for a coordinated effort to bridge the gap between mobile digital familiarity and real computer skillsets. Future steps will likely involve evaluation of existing training programmes and potential governmental or private sector partnership to boost computer literacy across all provinces.
