(Read in Sinhala) Despite the rise of modern communication methods, the postal service, one of the oldest forms of communication, continues to serve millions globally. Sri Lanka’s postal service dates back to 1798 when the Dutch established the first five post offices in the coastal areas. In 1799, the first postal regulations and postage fees were introduced, marking the formal beginning of the country’s postal network.
Historically, letters were delivered on foot, with postmen walking long distances to fulfill their duties. Bicycles were later introduced to ease the burden, but even today, in remote and mountainous areas, postmen often deliver letters on foot. Motorbikes are now the preferred mode of transport for letter carriers, allowing for faster and more efficient delivery.
Currently, around 7,400 postal workers are employed across Sri Lanka. Traditionally, the job of delivering letters was considered a male-dominated profession. However, Sunali Ruwangika Nugawela has broken this long-standing gender barrier by becoming Sri Lanka’s first female postwoman.
Sunali currently works at the main post office in Veyangoda. After completing her higher education at St. Mary’s National School in Veyangoda, she worked in the private sector for a few years. In 2020, she sat for the competitive exam for the Substitute Postman position under the Sri Lanka Postal Department. Scoring high marks, she secured her first appointment in February 2021 at the Rukgahawila Sub-Post Office in the Gampaha District, making history as the first woman to take up the role of a postman in Sri Lanka.
Her decision to pursue this job was supported by her parents and her husband, Tarindu Madhusanka Nainanayake, who serves in the Sri Lanka Army. Sunali, who was a mother to an eight-month-old daughter at the time, also received support from her mother, who helped care for the child while Sunali carried out her duties.
Starting her career in Rukgahawila, a place she was unfamiliar with, presented some challenges. However, with the support of her colleagues, including the postmaster at the Rukgahawila Sub-Post Office, she quickly adapted to her new role. Managing a large delivery area, Sunali switched from using a bicycle to a motorbike, which allowed her to cover greater distances more efficiently.
After her initial assignment, Sunali received a permanent position at the Veyangoda Post Office, where she now starts her workday at 6:00 AM. In addition to assisting with office tasks, she continues to deliver letters. Reflecting on her work, Sunali shared that rainy days pose the greatest challenge, as keeping the letters dry becomes difficult.
“There are no jobs meant only for men or only for women anymore,” Sunali said. “When I took this job, no other woman was working in this role. I took the first step, and I hope more young women will have the courage to step into any career they are passionate about.”
Thanks to Lankadeepa and Dharani newspapers
- SrimalDC
