Role of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) towards Sustainable Development in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka(Special Reference to the SMEs of Automobile Service Sector in the Matara District)

Abstract

This study aimed to assess whether SMEs have a role in achieving sustainable development (SD) in the Southern Province (SP) of Sri Lanka (SL). It was planned in three major sections. The first was to review the role of SMEs in the Matara district and secondly it was considered to evaluate both the Private-public participation (PPP) for the enhancement of the SME sector. Finally the perceptions of SMEs owners towards the SD achievements were evaluated. The study used both qualitative and quantitative research strategies. The findings showed that the SMEs are playing a clear role within the area and help many people engaged in this field in generating income and helping to sustain their livelihoods. As the second objective it was found out that there was lack of PPP towards the development of service related SMEs in the SP. The one way Anova test showed that there are significances among the age of SMEs towards SD and the number of employees in SMEs may influence towards SD. Also the owners have good perceptions of SD. Finally it can be mentioned that SMEs are playing a major role in the province to achieve SD as the back bone of the country?s development.