### 🏛️ Restoring National History: A Strategic Investment for Sri Lanka

• Core Policy Proposal Policymakers and educators are urged to restore history to a central role in the education sector. The move aims to counter a perceived weakening of national consciousness and patriotism among the younger generation, viewing historical awareness as a "strategic national investment" rather than just an academic subject. • Economic & Social Implications A nation’s future is defined not only by its ICT/BPM progress or economic policies but by its collective memory. The data suggests that historical ignorance leads to fragmentation and vulnerability to external manipulation, which can undermine long-term national stability and sovereign development. • Key Historical Pillars Hydraulic Civilization: Lessons from King Parakramabahu’s water management highlight ancient "sustainable development" and ecological intelligence. Governance & Justice: Historical figures like King Elara and King Dutugemunu serve as models for the rule of law and ethical leadership. Ethical Foundations: The arrival of Buddhism is credited with shaping the nation's approach to social harmony and conflict resolution. • Global & Modern Context International Benchmarks: Success stories from Germany, Japan, and India show how national identity drives economic and scientific progress. Modern Resilience: Teaching recent history, including the defeat of terrorism and the 2004 Tsunami response, is vital for building a socially responsible and resilient citizenry. • Current Status Based on the published commentary, there is a "dire need" for curriculum reform to ensure the next generation understands that independence and freedoms were hard-won achievements, essential for preserving Sri Lanka's value systems against "erosion and corrosion."