Abstract:
This paper examine the relationship between standard of living conditions and lower education
of people. As per the education system of Sri Lanka, the primary education ends with General
Certificate of Education, Ordinary Level (GCE O/L) examination. The people who has failed the
GCE O/L examination are considered as lower educated people in the study. This research
reveals that there is close relationship between peoples‟ living standard and level of their
education.
The study is based on primary and secondary data and information. Both qualitative and
quantitative data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires, and key informant
discussions. Four villages, Dombepola, Poonugala, Peelahena, Denawaka Waththa, of Kitulgala
Education Zone in Kegalle District were selected as the study area, and 50 respondents has been
selected for sample survey.
The results of the study clearly shows that even though the lower educated people has
satisfactory social conditions, their economic achievements is not satisfactory. Majority of them
work for daily wages as labourers and others works in government and private sector with very
low salaries. The majority of them settle in the government lands or their parents‟ land. Anyway
they are not socially excluded. The major issue of the lower educated people is not having
permanent livelihood.
