http://repo.lib.sab.ac.lk:8080/xmlui/handle/123456789/2 This community contains research publication by the university staff and conference proceedings held by the university. 2026-07-01T12:53:08Z http://repo.lib.sab.ac.lk:8080/xmlui/handle/susl/5359 Editorial note, Panel of reviewers and aims and scope 2026-06-01T00:00:00Z http://repo.lib.sab.ac.lk:8080/xmlui/handle/susl/5358 Content page and related items 2026-06-01T00:00:00Z http://repo.lib.sab.ac.lk:8080/xmlui/handle/susl/5357 ASSESSING THE CONCEPT OF SOCIAL SECURITY IN REALITY: A QUALITATIVE STUDY OF TEA ESTATE WORKERS IN NUWARA-ELIYA, SRI LANKA Jayasinghe, A.D.S.N; Priyanath, H. M. S Despite the concept of social security being developed based on sufficient theoretical foundations mainly focusing on the formal sector workers, scholars have not validated the concept in the context of the informal sector of workers particularly tea estate workers who face many social and economic challenges due to limited access to proper social security systems. Therefore, this study aims to assess the concept of social security that is reflected in the lived experiences of the tea estate workers in Sri Lanka. A qualitative research approach was used, with data collected through in depth interviews from purposively selected nine tea estate workers of one private sector estate at Nuwara-Eliya in Sri Lanka. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key patterns and meanings from their responses. The findings reveal that social security among tea estate workers is largely informal, fragmented, and uncertain. Workers mainly depend on family support, personal savings, and employment-based benefits such as Employment Provident Fund (EPF) and Employment Trust Fund (ETF). Income security is unstable, health and housing support are limited and often linked to employment, and care systems are inadequate, especially for elderly and disabled individuals. While education support for children is relatively better, other services remain weak. Informal networks and crisis support systems exist but are not reliable for long-term security. Additionally, workers face barriers such as language difficulties and social inequality, which limit access to services. The study concludes that there are considerable gaps between the concept of social security and its practical realization in the lived experiences of tea estate workers in Sri Lanka. 2026-06-01T00:00:00Z http://repo.lib.sab.ac.lk:8080/xmlui/handle/susl/5356 SOCIAL CAPITAL AND HOUSEHOLD INCOME DIVERSIFICATION IN RURAL SRI LANKA: A QUALITATIVE EXPLORATION OF SOCIAL RELATIONS, TRUST, COMMUNITY NETWORKS, AND LIVELIHOOD STRATEGIES Gamage, S.K Naradda; E.M.S. Ekanayake, E.M.S; Sumanapala, S.A.D; Pabasara, M.K.N; Prasanna, R.P.I.R Households in rural Sri Lanka are increasingly turning to multiple income sources to cope with unstable economic conditions, intensifying climate threats, and reduced farm profits. Social capital is broad, encompassing networks, norms, trust, and other social relationships that can be used to coordinate and cooperate towards a mutual benefit. The overall objective of this qualitative research is to explore how social relationships, community networks, and trust contribute to income diversification among rural households in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka In line with this aim, the study seeks to understand how by examining how different forms of social capital facilitate the initiation and expansion of income-generating activities by providing access to resources, opportunities, and collaborative support. It further examines how rural households rely on social capital as a coping mechanism during periods of economic hardship or environmental crises, such as drought, crop failure, or sudden income loss. The sample comprised 17 rural households in rural and semi rural areas selected through purposive sampling from Anuradhapura District, Sri Lanka. It collected relevant data from respondents via semi-structured face-to-face interviews , lasting approximately 1.5 hours. Key dimensions identified through thematic analysis, including themes and patterns relevant to determinants of Social Capital and Income Diversification. In line with social capital theory, these dimensions are further conceptualized through the distinction between bonding social capital, bridging social capital, and linking social capital.The research findings identify the influence of social relationships, community networks, and trust on income diversification among rural households in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. Main themes include the role of social networks in income diversification; the impact of collective support and informal mechanisms on risk-taking; knowledge sharing and skill development for better livelihoods; social capital as a safety net in crises; and the enhancement of market efficiency and economic decision-making through social capital. Solid connections help people share, learn, and support each other. Strong neighborhood ties facilitate information exchange and risk reduction, although many groups remain insular. Rural development should foster connections with external resources such as training centers and microfinance agencies, enabling families to acquire new skills and opportunities beyond their immediate circles. Organized community training and knowledge-sharing through groups can enhance practical skills in food processing and climate-smart farming. There is a pressing need for affordable financial options, as rural families often depend on informal loans; thus, banks should offer accessible microcredit solutions. Additionally, strengthening rural infrastructure and market facilities can enhance income opportunities. Programs aimed at building resilience in climate-affected areas should incorporate local support networks alongside formal resources to better prepare communities for adverse conditions and disasters. 2026-06-01T00:00:00Z