Abstract
In Sri Lanka, the production of bamboo crafts and utensils largely relies on local knowledge specific to the regions where bamboo plantations are situated. The bamboo-based handicraft industry in Sri Lanka comprises semi-skilled, unorganized, disintegrated, and economically disadvantaged workers who face notable social discrimination. However, the industry has the potential to improve the socioeconomic status of underprivileged individuals in Sri Lanka. This study aimed to investigate the current social background and economic potential of bamboo-based handicraft producers to improve their social and economic well-being and identify opportunities to overcome socio-economic challenges. The data collection process involved a household questionnaire survey, key informant discussions, and focus-group discussions. Fifty handicraft makers were selected from the Handessa Grama Niladhari division using the stratified random sampling method. Most secondary data were obtained from the resource profile of the Udunuwara divisional secretariat. The findings revealed that most workers were over 60 years old and had only completed primary education. Furthermore, the lack of product diversification has been considered a major constraint on expanding market opportunities. critical challenges faced by craftsmen including the decline in skilled artisans, inadequate education, poor financial management practices etc. While addressing these issues, it is important to revitalize the industry and empower future generations to engage in and appreciate this traditional craft industry to ensure its sustainability.
Author Information
Dananji Amarasinghe, Ministry of Finance, Economic Stabilization and National Policies, Sri Lanka
Paper Information
Conference: KAMC2024
Stream: Sociology
This paper is part of the KAMC2024 Conference Proceedings (View)
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To cite this article:
Amarasinghe D. (2024) Socioeconomic Status of Bamboo-Based Handicrafts Producers: A Case Study in Handessa Grama Niladhari Division, Kandy, Sri Lanka ISSN: 2436-0503 – The Kyoto Conference on Arts, Media & Culture 2024: Official Conference Proceedings (pp. 365-378) https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2436-0503.2024.33
To link to this article: https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2436-0503.2024.33
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