GAYANTHA DEHIWATTE

Gayantha Dehiwatte is a passionate scholar and entrepreneur contributing to economic and social development initiatives in his native Sri Lanka. He possesses extensive academic qualifications in economics, sustainability, and business systems, combining analytical insight with practical experience in global trade and enterprise development.

After completing his studies in Australia, Mr. Dehiwatte established a successful retail and distribution business before returning to Sri Lanka in 2009, responding to the government’s post-war appeal to overseas investors. His subsequent experience navigating Sri Lanka’s political and economic landscape exposed deep-rooted corruption and policy inefficiencies—transforming him from an investor into a dedicated advocate for economic justice, fiscal sovereignty, and social reform.

A devoted scholar of political economy, Mr. Dehiwatte draws intellectual influence from renowned economists such as Michael Hudson, John Maynard Keynes, David Harvey, L. Randall Wray, Hyman Minsky, and Karl Marx. His comprehensive understanding of monetary systems, banking structures, and macroeconomic dynamics has guided several strategic business initiatives, including a 15-year government buy-back agreement for a pharmaceutical manufacturing enterprise and early investments in Sri Lanka’s expanding power sector.

As a guest lecturer and economic, political, and social activist, Mr. Dehiwatte frequently engages with universities, think tanks, and policy forums to promote inclusive, sovereign, and sustainable economic models. His work focuses on enhancing public understanding of fiscal policy, strengthening economic literacy, and advocating for structural reforms that prioritize people over profit.

• Master of Economics of Sustainability, Torrens University, Adelaide, Australia
• Graduate Certificate in Economics of Sustainability, Torrens University, Adelaide, Australia
• Graduate Certificate in Business Systems, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
• Bachelor of Technology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia

• Authored research papers on economic issues recognized and accepted by several international universities
• Invited to present at the International Conference on Political Economy, organized by the Levy Economics Institute of Bard College, New York