Sri Lanka’s digital literacy rate has reached 72.5 per cent, while the computer literacy rate stands at 38.1 per cent, according to the Computer Literacy Statistics 2026 – First Six Months Bulletin released by the Department of Census and Statistics.

The report, published under the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, presents the findings of a survey conducted during the period from January to June 2026, covering a nationally distributed sample of households and individuals aged between five and 69 years.

According to the findings, more than one-third of the population within the surveyed age group is computer literate, while more than two-thirds possess digital literacy.

The survey further reveals that only 20.8 per cent of households in Sri Lanka own a desktop or laptop computer, highlighting the gap in access to computer equipment among households.

The findings also indicate that the urban sector records higher levels of both computer and digital literacy compared to other sectors.

The Department of Census and Statistics defines a computer-literate person as an individual aged between five and 69 years who is capable of using a computer independently. Similarly, a digitally literate person is defined as someone who can independently operate a computer, laptop, tablet or smartphone.

The report notes that the rapid advancement of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become an increasingly important factor in economic development, access to information and improvements in living standards.

It also highlights the importance of reliable and timely ICT-related statistics in guiding government policies, supporting private-sector investment, assessing demand for internet services and monitoring progress in digital development.

The Department of Census and Statistics has conducted computer literacy surveys in 2004, 2006/07 and 2009, before incorporating a dedicated survey module into the Sri Lanka Labour Force Survey from 2014 onwards.