Australian Teen with Sri Lankan Roots Uses Coding to Change Lives
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- Jan 22
- 1 min read
An Australian teenager with Sri Lankan roots is using coding to help close the global digital divide.
Neth Dharmasiri began learning computer programming at age 11 after discovering Python. Six years later, the 17-year-old has built his own programming language and launched a new education app.
Inspired by the lack of access to technology in rural Sri Lanka, Neth and his friend Chinmay Lal created Thadus, a beginner-friendly coding platform designed to work offline in areas with limited internet.
Released in 2026, the app offers three structured courses that introduce core coding concepts and show how they connect to real-world careers. One course focuses on data science, reflecting the growing demand for skills linked to artificial intelligence.
The project has gained support from Sri Lankan philanthropist Kushil Gunasekera, whose Foundation of Goodness runs more than 20 computer labs in rural communities. The partnership is expected to give thousands of students access to coding education.
While Thadus CodeLabs operates as a commercial venture, the app is free for charities and non-profit organisations.
Education experts say initiatives like this are vital as digital skills become as important as reading and maths, especially for students in regional and disadvantaged areas.
Neth says coding is not about talent, but opportunity. With the right access, he believes anyone can learn to create, problem-solve and innovate.
Source : ABCNews
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