Abstract:
The freelance career model has become a global trend in the 21st century, especially
popular among the younger generation. Freelancing refers to a work arrangement where
individuals offer their services to clients or businesses on a project-by-project basis,
working independently with multiple clients simultaneously. Sri Lanka faces a
significant unemployment issue, particularly among youth, which the government has
struggled to resolve. This research investigates the factors influencing the adoption of
freelancing among selected state university students in Sri Lanka. A mixed-methods
approach was adopted, involving surveys and interviews with a sample of 382 students
from four state universities. The findings reveal a positive inclination among students
toward freelancing, with key relationships identified. These include the impact of
personal restraints, payment restraints, freelance market characteristics, technical
knowledge, and social restraints on freelancing adaptation. The study offers valuable
insights for educational institutions, policymakers, and students to effectively integrate
freelancing into the academic environment.
