Department of Economics & Statistics

Economics is a social science that focuses on the use of resources, production of goods and services, growth of production and welfare of the society over time. Although it looks like a simple process, the issues arise under the discourse of the subject are by no means simpler. Hence, understanding Economics is important to identify a great variety of complex issues of vital concern to society and policy measures to address those issues making it a crucial driver in the search for sustainable and inclusive growth. The Department of Economics which was among the first departments transferred from Colombo to Peradeniya in 1952 at the inception of the Faculty of Arts has been a prestigious department contributing to national development, dissemination of knowledge and teaching economics.

As the present Head of the Department, I am glad to say that we have successfully carried out the mandate given to us. During the 70-year period of its operations the Department has established itself as an active player with well-qualified academic staff performing well in teaching of Economics and Statistics and conducting research. Furthermore, currently we are operating in close partnership with government agencies, universities and research Institutes, both local and foreign, and other actors including civil society organizations. We also organize PIERS international conference which is an annual event providing opportunity for our students and foreign researchers to present research outcomes and increase international relations and exposing our students to global context. The role played by our alumni in this regard also merits special mention.

The University of Peradeniya has been ranked among the world’s top 500 universities for the third consecutive year and the number one university in Sri Lanka according to Times Higher Education Ranking 2022. This is the highest world ranking that any university in Sri Lanka has reached in the recent history. As a participant in this prestigious and innovative education in Economics and Statistics, you have the opportunity to be part of a national venture enjoying the best of facilities in both undergraduate and postgraduate education available in the country. I wish to take this opportunity extend a warm welcome to you with an open request to do your utmost to get the best out of this opportunity and be part of the future of this Department and that of the country. At a time when the University of Peradeniya has embarked upon an ambitious project of raising its international standing among other world universities, I wish you good luck in your stay with the Department of Economics and Statistics.

Professor J. G. Sri Ranjith
Head, Department of Economics and Statistics
University of Peradeniya