This study analyses three major social sectors in Sri Lanka namely, health and nutrition; water and sanitation; and education and training. The addition of two cross-cutting dimensions, gender and poverty, to the analysis sharpens the focus and provides a more balanced and realistic presentation of Sri Lanka’s social sector. Some of the conclusions that emerge from this study include the restructuring of the system of education and training; the promotion of employment; the integration of the poor in the processes of growth generated through economic reforms; and the adjustment of all social sectors to reflect demographic and socioeconomic changes. The ADB hopes that this study will be a useful contribution to the broadening debate on the challenges to social sector development in Sri Lanka. The study will also help establish the foundation for future strategic interventions by the bank.