Progress in critical sectors such as education relies on strong, focused leadership—individuals with the vision, expertise, and commitment to drive lasting change. In Sri Lanka, where expanding access and improving the quality of education remain national priorities, such leaders are essential in bridging the divide between public sector constraints and private sector opportunities.
Premila Paulraj, Director Market Growth – South Asia of Pearson, shares how global education companies are working to transform students’ and teachers’ lives and build a more inclusive future for Sri Lanka.
Can you share a little bit about your journey? What inspired you to enter the education sector?
I began as a science student, initially considering careers in medicine or law, as was often encouraged at the time. Education was never part of my original plan. After completing school, I pursued a Diploma in Computer Science, which was highly sought after then. That choice opened an unexpected door where I was offered an instructor role at the same institute, followed by a lecturer position. It was during this period that I discovered my true passion for education. Within three years, I progressed from instructor to lecturer to center manager, gaining invaluable insight into every aspect of running an educational institution, from academic operations to business management. With a CIM–UK qualification and a Master’s in Business Management from Robert Gordon University, I transitioned into education sales and marketing, later leading the establishment of multiple IBM-certified IT campuses across Sri Lanka.
For the past 20 years, I have been with Pearson, where I’ve advanced through roles that include Regional Development Manager, Assistant Vice President, Regional Director for Southeast Asia, and Director for Employability & Qualifications in South Asia. I now serve as Director of Market Growth for South Asia, overseeing both Qualifications and Courseware.
You’ve been deeply involved in shaping education in South Asia. What are the biggest shifts you have observed in the past decade?
One major shift I’ve seen is the rise in investment in education. Non-educators in particular are recognising education as an essential, high-value sector. English-medium education, for instance, holds strong appeal across the region.
Another has been the role of technology. In the past, technology was simply a subject we studied; today, it underpins the entire education ecosystem. From student recruitment and marketing to teaching, learning, and learner support, digital tools and social media have become indispensable. Educational platforms have redefined how learners access knowledge, engage with content, and receive guidance. These transformations are visible across the region and, for organisations like Pearson, are very much aligned with broader global trends.
How do you see Sri Lanka’s education system evolving in the next 5 years?
Sri Lanka’s education system is moving towards skills-based learning, where soft skills like communication, professionalism, and adaptability complement academic qualifications. AI will increasingly shape this shift, demanding reforms that enhance learning outcomes.
Teachers must also upskill in IT and digital tools as education transitions to more interactive, multimedia-driven methods. While platforms and content are available, effective use depends on teacher capability.
This transformation must be reinforced through comprehensive teacher development initiatives that provide free training, personalised mentoring with subject leaders, and access to expert guidance—ensuring that both educators and learners are well-prepared for the evolving educational landscape.
In a sector often criticised for being slow to change, how do you drive innovation?
Education is often perceived as a sector slow to change, yet recent advancements in technology—particularly in IT and AI—are driving innovation at an unprecedented pace. For over two decades, I’ve witnessed how digital tools have reshaped assessment, from the early adoption of e-pen technology that allowed exam scripts to be processed and shared within hours, to the more recent shift towards on-screen exams and automated scoring.
The real game-changer, however, is the integration of AI into education. From personalised study plans and intelligent tutoring systems to adaptive platforms that adjust content based on individual performance, these innovations are transforming learning into a more inclusive and learner-centric experience.
Education can no longer be confined to a one-size-fits-all model. It needs to become more agile, accessible, and responsive to the diverse needs of today’s learners.
Education is more than business—it’s nation building. How do you balance commercial objectives with social impact?
Education is a nation-building force. With Sri Lanka’s deep-rooted heritage in learning, we now face the challenge of evolving our system to meet global demands. Innovation, infrastructure, and investment are vital, and the private sector has a pivotal role in making quality education accessible at scale. While sustainability requires commercial viability, the social impact of education—empowering individuals, families, and communities—is immeasurable.
Looking ahead, what legacy would you like to leave through your work in education?
In the years to come, my goal is to build access to education for all, regardless of location, language, or income. Not everyone needs a degree; some seek skills-based qualifications. The real challenge is to cater to every segment, ensuring inclusive, accessible education that shapes a generation of employable, future-ready youth. These individuals will not only be academically and professionally qualified, but also confident in their ability to lead Sri Lanka into the next decade and beyond.