education reforms – Newswire https://www.newswire.lk Sri Lanka's largest News aggregator Fri, 12 Jun 2026 06:54:04 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.8 https://www.newswire.lk/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/favicon.png education reforms – Newswire https://www.newswire.lk 32 32 President sets one‑month deadline for new education policy framework https://www.newswire.lk/2026/06/12/president-sets-one%e2%80%91month-deadline-for-new-education-policy-framework/ Fri, 12 Jun 2026 06:54:04 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=240266

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has directed officials to finalise Sri Lanka’s proposed Education Reform Policy Framework within one month, underscoringContinue Reading

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President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has directed officials to finalise Sri Lanka’s proposed Education Reform Policy Framework within one month, underscoring the urgency of shaping a comprehensive national approach to education.

The directive was issued during a discussion at the Presidential Secretariat on June 10, where the National Education Commission presented its concept paper outlining reforms across multiple pillars of the education system.

At the meeting, the Chairman of the National Education Commission stated that the current education reforms are being undertaken across several pillars: early childhood education, general education (primary, secondary and tertiary), higher education, vocational education, technological education, digital education and non-formal education. 

Attention was also given to Sri Lanka’s education system to date, the various education reforms implemented over the years, and the social changes brought about by those reforms. The President instructed officials to review previous education reforms and to take into account the key lessons emerging from them when formulating the new education policy framework. 

Members of the Education Commission noted that, since the establishment of the National Education Commission in 1991, education policies have been formulated from time to time. They pointed out that a significant portion of the 1997 policy had been applied to primary education.

It was further observed that although a policy was formulated in 2016 for general education, it was not implemented accordingly. Likewise, while an education policy was prepared in 2023, it was not adopted as the national education policy. 

Attention was also drawn to the fact that previous education reform efforts had often been based on programmes developed according to the functions of education-related institutions, rather than on a clearly established policy framework guiding educational change. 

Describing the present moment as a significant opportunity, the President emphasised that education reforms should be implemented in a manner that does not disrupt the continuity of the existing education process. Rather than creating a separate policy framework and attempting to operate independently through it, reforms should be integrated carefully into the functioning education system. 

The President stated that this represents a considerable challenge for the National Education Commission. He also noted that it would be inaccurate to conclude that either the previous education system or the current one is entirely successful or entirely unsuccessful. 

He stressed the importance of carefully identifying both the strengths and weaknesses of the existing system. He further observed that it is not possible to determine in the short term whether an education reform is successful or unsuccessful, as its impact must be assessed over the long term through the changes it brings about in society. For this reason, he emphasised that education reforms require greater caution and consideration than many other types of reforms. 

Discussions also focused on the need to conduct an in-depth review of anticipated future social challenges and to incorporate into the new policy framework the elements necessary for developing citizens suited to a changing society. 

Special attention was given to the need for a policy framework to regulate all sectors of education that are currently not subject to proper regulation, as well as to the adverse consequences arising from the lack of regulation of private education. 

The importance of conducting research into university education reform and the regulation of private universities was also discussed.

Among those present were Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya; Deputy Minister of Education and Higher Education Dr Madhura Seneviratne; Deputy Minister of Vocational Education Nalin Hewage, Chairman of the National Education Commission Professor A. Sarath Ananda; and other members of the Ministry of Education and National Education Commission. (Newswire)

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“Not my mentality — it’s your competence,” Sajith tells Minister over education reforms remarks https://www.newswire.lk/2026/01/30/not-my-mentality-its-your-competence-sajith-tells-minister-over-education-reforms-remarks/ Fri, 30 Jan 2026 05:43:07 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=221248

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has responded sharply to recent comments by Media Minister Nalinda Jayatissa regarding the opposition’s stance onContinue Reading

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Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has responded sharply to recent comments by Media Minister Nalinda Jayatissa regarding the opposition’s stance on the government’s education reforms.

Premadasa said his opposition was based on serious flaws in the school modules, including what he described as “glaring errors” and links to pornographic websites.

“If that passed your review, the real question is not my mentality — it’s your competence. So please do your homework before judging others,” Premadasa said in a post on X.

His remarks follow Jayatissa’s statement at the weekly Cabinet media briefing, where the minister questioned how the opposition could now support the reforms after previously rejecting them, and accused certain media outlets of fueling public negativity toward the program. (Newswire)

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PM Harini Launches Grade 1 Education Reforms https://www.newswire.lk/2026/01/29/pm-harini-launches-grade-1-education-reforms/ Thu, 29 Jan 2026 04:07:47 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=221040

Prime Minister and Minister of Education Dr. Harini Amarasuriya today inaugurated the national programme to implement Sri Lanka’s new educationContinue Reading

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Prime Minister and Minister of Education Dr. Harini Amarasuriya today inaugurated the national programme to implement Sri Lanka’s new education reforms, starting with Grade 1, at Gunasekara Vidyalaya in Athurugiriya.

The 2026 reforms mark a shift from an exam-oriented system to a student-centered, practical learning approach, the government said. The changes aim to reduce academic pressure, introduce early vocational exposure, and modernize the curriculum.

Key updates include a redesigned Grade 1 syllabus featuring lightweight, semester-based booklets, digital tools, and structured timetables. The new system promotes holistic development through play-based learning, physical activity, and the arts.

The initiative emphasizes equal access to quality education and aims to remove economic barriers to learning, reinforcing the principle that education is a fundamental right for every child. (Newswire)

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Sajith hits back at AKD’s Education Reforms criticism https://www.newswire.lk/2026/01/28/sajith-hits-back-at-akds-education-reforms-criticism/ Wed, 28 Jan 2026 04:05:18 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=220866

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has strongly criticized President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and his allies, accusing them of spreading lies andContinue Reading

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Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has strongly criticized President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and his allies, accusing them of spreading lies and deception over educational reforms. 

Taking to ‘X’, he said their incompetence and failed policies led to the abrupt halt of Grade 6 reforms, and now the government is attempting to shift blame onto those defending children’s right to free education. 

“We are now being blamed for standing up for the educational rights of the children, whose right to free education has been grossly violated. AKD better comprehend the fact that you cannot fool all of the people all of the time,” Premadasa warned. 

His comments follow President Dissanayake’s response to Premadasa’s earlier remarks on the government’s education reforms. 

Earlier, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, who had strongly opposed the reforms, said that the opposition is willing to support the efforts.

He criticized the government for failing to introduce reforms for Grade 6, leaving many children disadvantaged, and stressed that the responsibility for halting reforms lies with the current President and government, not the opposition.

Responding to the remarks, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake slammed the opposition for shifting its stance on the government’s education reforms.

“I saw one person who was majorly opposing these reforms, now asking us why it was stopped,” the President said, taking a swipe at Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa over his recent comments. (Newswire)

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President slams opposition U-Turn on education reforms https://www.newswire.lk/2026/01/27/president-slams-opposition-u-turn-on-education-reforms/ Tue, 27 Jan 2026 12:31:04 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=220820

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake today slammed the opposition for shifting its stance on the government’s education reforms. Addressing an eventContinue Reading

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President Anura Kumara Dissanayake today slammed the opposition for shifting its stance on the government’s education reforms.

Addressing an event in Gampola, President Dissanayake said the government cannot be distracted from its commitment to progress, regardless of attempts to build false narratives.

“I saw one person who was majorly opposing these reforms, now asking us why it was stopped,” the President said, taking a swipe at Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa over his recent comments.

Opposition Sajith Leader Sajith Premadasa, having strongly opposed the reforms, recently said that the opposition is willing to support the efforts.

He criticized the government for failing to introduce reforms for Grade 6, leaving many children disadvantaged, and stressed that the responsibility for halting reforms lies with the current President and government, not the opposition.

He urged that experts in the education sector be consulted to remove flaws and implement reforms correctly and swiftly within this year. (Newswire)

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Education reforms : Galle Satyagraha enters fourth day https://www.newswire.lk/2026/01/23/education-reforms-galle-satyagraha-enters-fourth-day/ Fri, 23 Jan 2026 10:49:09 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=220369

The Satyagraha launched in Galle on January 19, calling for the implementation of education reforms by 2026, entered its fourthContinue Reading

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The Satyagraha launched in Galle on January 19, calling for the implementation of education reforms by 2026, entered its fourth consecutive day today (23).

Organizers of the protest said the campaign will continue until the Cabinet takes a firm decision on the matter. 

The demonstrators are calling for the introduction of the education reforms pertaining to Grade 6, which was postponed due to the inclusion of an inappropriate website in the English module. (Newswire)

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Harsha urges Govt to proceed with Grade 6 education reforms https://www.newswire.lk/2026/01/20/harsha-urges-govt-to-proceed-with-grade-6-education-reforms/ Tue, 20 Jan 2026 10:43:04 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=219797

Opposition MP Harsha de Silva says the opposition is completely in favour of education reforms, raising concerns over the postponementContinue Reading

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Opposition MP Harsha de Silva says the opposition is completely in favour of education reforms, raising concerns over the postponement of the proposed education reforms for Grade 6.

The government announced that the proposed education reforms for Grade 6 were postponed following recent controversy over content in the Grade 6 English module.

Commenting on the matter in Parliament today, MP Harsha told the government not to cite an inappropriate website as the cause, as such excuses are irrelevant.

“A website is irrelevant to us. If anyone has misused or improperly handled the matter, suspend them. We must go beyond this. We must implement these reforms. Instead of postponing it, you should have owned up to the mistake, said you are going to correct the mistake and urged us to agree to the implementation of the reforms,” he said. 

MP Harsha further urged the government to allocate the necessary funds to improve the education sector. (Newswire)

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Bimal defends education reforms, cites four rounds of union talks https://www.newswire.lk/2026/01/20/bimal-defends-education-reforms-cites-four-rounds-of-union-talks/ Tue, 20 Jan 2026 04:08:35 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=219719

Minister Bimal Ratnayake defended the government’s approach to implementing education reforms, asserting that adequate discussions were held with key stakeholders,Continue Reading

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Minister Bimal Ratnayake defended the government’s approach to implementing education reforms, asserting that adequate discussions were held with key stakeholders, including trade unions.

Responding to criticism over a lack of public consultation, Ratnayake said that while the public and stakeholders were provided opportunities to share their views, the current level of disagreement had not previously been expressed. 

He expressed these views during a televised interview.

According to the Minister, the government has engaged with trade unions on four separate occasions regarding the reforms, citing Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, who is also the Minister of Education.

He stressed that Sri Lanka has historically invested significantly in education, framing the government’s focus on human development as a national priority. 

However, Ratnayake acknowledged existing disparities in access and quality across the country. He stressed the need to increase educational opportunities, aligning reforms with a long-term vision for 2050. “Sri Lanka is far behind relative to other countries,” he said.

Ratnayake noted that although the current government entered midway, the reform process had begun in 2015. 

He highlighted the complexity of education reform, contrasting it with infrastructure projects. “When building a bridge, you can plan, simulate, and test. But with education and economic reforms, outcomes only become visible after 10 to 15 years,” he said.

He also noted the need for foundational infrastructure in schools, stating that digital infrastructure should be considered a basic necessity, on par with electricity and water, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring its availability. (Newswire)

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Academics back education reforms, condemn attacks on PM https://www.newswire.lk/2026/01/15/academics-back-education-reforms-condemn-attacks-on-pm/ Thu, 15 Jan 2026 07:48:37 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=219206

A group of academics, professionals, and social activists have issued a joint statement strongly supporting the government’s ongoing education reformsContinue Reading

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A group of academics, professionals, and social activists have issued a joint statement strongly supporting the government’s ongoing education reforms while condemning the attacks directed at Prime Minister and Minister of Education Dr. Harini Amarasuriya by certain opposition groups and individuals.

The signatories described such attacks as hateful, indecent, and a disgrace to civilized society, warning that they normalize misogynistic attitudes and undermine progressive women’s political leadership, thereby shrinking the space for constructive engagement on urgently needed reforms.

The statement emphasized that Sri Lanka requires an education system grounded in forward-looking principles as articulated in the National People’s Power (NPP) Education Policy, now adopted as government policy.

It stressed that education should be viewed not merely as a commodity but as a process for developing advanced and civilized citizens through visionary leadership, ethics, integrity, social mobility, community participation, inclusion of diverse social groups, and effective communication.

The signatories outlined key priorities for reform, including:

  • Ensuring equal access to education for all segments of society.
  • Eliminating disparities between privileged and underprivileged groups.
  • Affirming the state’s responsibility to provide education to all.
  • Equipping learners with knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values to become democratic citizens.
  • Contributing to employment generation that meets changing social needs.
  • Embracing cultural diversity and pluralism across all communities.
  • Eliminating discrimination against any social group.
  • Promoting social, economic, and environmental well-being.
  • Responding effectively to global and local conditions.

They further underscored the need to expand and protect the right to free education for present and future generations.

However, the statement raised serious concerns about the conduct of the National Institute of Education (NIE), citing allegations of editorial errors and problematic textbook content, as well as delays and lapses in responsibility. To restore public confidence, the group urged the government to:

  • Review new textbooks for Grades 1–6 and future publications through an independent mechanism separate from NIE officials.
  • Restructure the NIE via a specially appointed committee or commission after a comprehensive review of its role and performance.
  • Conduct a formal and inclusive dialogue on education reforms with stakeholders, including teachers’ unions, ensuring transparency and accountability.
  • Allocate a substantial portion of the national budget to raise public expenditure on education to 6% of GDP.

The signatories also called on the government to intervene decisively against crude and hateful rhetoric that dehumanizes sexuality and identity, noting that such discourse runs counter to the fundamental objective of educational reform: building a progressive and mature citizenry that respects all social identities.

They reminded that the transformative vision for education continues to enjoy strong support from the academic and professional community as well as the broader public.

Signatories include: Prof. Emeritus Jayadeva Uyangoda, Prof. Emeritus Jagath Weerasinghe, Prof. Anbahan Ariyadurai, Prof. Uthpala Jayawardena, Prof. Rohan Fernando, Prof. Prince Jayadevan, Dr. S. Arivalzahan, Prof. Nirmal Ranjith Devasiri, Dr. N. Varathan, Sandun Thudugala (Law & Society Trust), Dr. Mariadas Alfred, Dr. Athulasiri Samarakoon, Senior Lecturer Saminathan Wimal, Dr. Dileepa Withrana, Dr. S. Selvaganesh, Vangeesa Sumanasekera (Colombo School of Philosophy), Eng. M. Sooriasegaram, Vidura Munasinghe (Attorney-at-Law), Dr. Amali Wedagedara, Senior Lecturer Janaha Selvaras, Dr. Thyagaraja Waradas, Sanjee Goonathilake (Social Activist), Dr. Visakesa Chandrasekaram, Senior Lecturer Sithumina Rathnamalala, Dr. Vivimarie Vander Poorten, Shreen Saroor (Social Activist), and Hiranyada Devasiri (Researcher). (Newswire)

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ITAK decides not to support NCM against PM Harini https://www.newswire.lk/2026/01/12/itak-decides-not-to-support-ncm-against-pm-harini/ Mon, 12 Jan 2026 10:23:38 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=218744

The Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK) has decided not to support the no‑confidence motion to be brought against Prime MinisterContinue Reading

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The Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK) has decided not to support the no‑confidence motion to be brought against Prime Minister and Education Minister Harini Amarasuriya.

Announcing this at a media briefing, ITAK Member of Parliament Sivagnanam Sridharan said his party had reached this decision.

Opposition MPs are currently collecting signatures to move a no‑confidence motion seeking the removal of Harini Amarasuriya from her positions as Prime Minister and Education Minister.

MP Sridharan stated that his party would not sign the motion, explaining that the decision was taken because no proper evidence had been presented regarding the allegations made against the Prime Minister.

He further noted that since the controversial learning modules have already been withdrawn, demanding her removal from office is viewed by his party as a political reprisal.

The MP added that the matter had been discussed with the party leadership during a parliamentary group meeting, and even if the motion is presented in Parliament, his party would neither support it nor vote against the Prime Minister.

Highlighting the need for new education reforms in the country, Sridharan pointed out that, unlike other nations, Sri Lanka does not give due importance to primary education, which remains at a backward level.

While acknowledging that there are various criticisms of the government regarding issues faced by the Tamil people, he stressed that his party would not join in any defamatory actions targeting an individual woman. (Newswire)

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Harini Go Home : Wimal launches satyagraha campaign https://www.newswire.lk/2026/01/12/harini-go-home-wimal-launches-satyagraha-campaign/ Mon, 12 Jan 2026 05:29:46 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=218678

National Freedom Front leader Wimal Weerawansa, together with representatives of several civil organizations, launched a satyagraha campaign today. It isContinue Reading

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National Freedom Front leader Wimal Weerawansa, together with representatives of several civil organizations, launched a satyagraha campaign today.

It is reported that the satyagraha has been launched demanding the withdrawal of the new education reforms and calling on Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya to resign from her post as Minister of Education.

The protest is being held in front of the Isurupaya Ministry of Education. (Newswire)

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Opposition Leader demands independent probe into flawed Education Reforms https://www.newswire.lk/2026/01/05/opposition-leader-demands-independent-probe-into-flawed-education-reforms/ Mon, 05 Jan 2026 10:34:01 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=217791

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa says education has degraded in Sri Lanka because reforms were carried out without proper procedure byContinue Reading

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Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa says education has degraded in Sri Lanka because reforms were carried out without proper procedure by the incumbent government. 

Premadasa noted that in many countries, when education is conducted online, protective frameworks are in place, with nations such as the U.S. and the U.K. following European Union security protocols.

“Such safeguards should also have been included in Sri Lanka’s new education reforms. Instead, the program was implemented suddenly, without a clear process, without publishing White Papers or Green Papers, and unlawfully, resulting in the degradation of education reforms,” he said. 

Premadas emphasized that politicians, the Education Minister, and officials must be held accountable, as this amounts to a violation of children’s rights that cannot be excused.

Commenting on the temporary removal of the Director of the National Institute of Education over an inappropriate website reference, he said the removal does not resolve the issue, and decisions must be taken through a transparent, impartial inquiry

He emphasized that an independent, impartial investigation is needed, and those responsible for this degradation must be identified. 

“The reforms are riddled with errors, including the exclusion of History as a subject. These mistakes must be corrected, and the opposition’s concerns should not be misinterpreted. Proper education reforms should be carried out, making use of new technology,” he said.

The Opposition Leader made these remarks in Meegama today (05 Jan), after attending the funeral of Ven. Kadadorapitiye Sumana Thero, the Chief Incumbent of the Sri Vidyawasa Pirivena. (Newswire)

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Teachers strike on December 12? https://www.newswire.lk/2025/11/14/teachers-strike-on-december-12/ Fri, 14 Nov 2025 05:12:29 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=210518

Education professionals have expressed their opposition to the government’s proposed education reforms, including the extension of school hours until 2:00Continue Reading

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Education professionals have expressed their opposition to the government’s proposed education reforms, including the extension of school hours until 2:00 pm. 

Addressing the media yesterday (13), President of the Education Professionals’ Association, Venerable Ulapane Sumangala Thera, announced that an islandwide strike involving multiple trade unions is scheduled for December 12, demanding the withdrawal of these reforms.

At the media briefing, the union emphasized that the government is moving forward with the proposed extension of school hours despite objections, even from unions that usually support the administration. 

Venerable Sumangala Thera noted that official circulars have already been issued regarding the proposed changes, without considering the prevailing opposition.

He further warned that if the government fails to withdraw these reforms, trade unions are prepared to launch an indefinite strike across the country after December 12.

The union reiterated that the extension of school hours and other education reforms must be reconsidered, and that the government’s disregard for stakeholder concerns could lead to serious disruptions in the education sector. (Newswire)

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University Lecturers’ Association briefed on proposed education reforms https://www.newswire.lk/2025/07/31/university-lecturers-association-briefed-on-proposed-education-reforms/ Thu, 31 Jul 2025 07:36:06 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=197112

The University Lecturers’ Association has made new suggestions concerning the government’s proposed education reforms during a meeting with Minister ofContinue Reading

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The University Lecturers’ Association has made new suggestions concerning the government’s proposed education reforms during a meeting with Minister of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Training, PM Harini Amarasuriya. 

According to the Prime Minister’s Office, a discussion aimed at informing the University Lecturers’ Association and all university representatives about the new education reforms was held at the Education Ministry, under the leadership of Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, yesterday.

During the event, the Prime Minister briefed the university lecturers on the planned educational reforms.

The University Lecturers’ Association expressed its views on various aspects of the reforms, including curriculum revisions, integration of digital technology, and the introduction of modules and activities as part of the broader educational transformation.

PM Amarasuriya paid attention to the new proposals and opinions presented during the meeting and acknowledged the feedback shared regarding the new educational reforms.

The Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Nalaka Kaluwewa, along with other state officials and representatives from the University Lecturers’ Association, participated in the discussion. (Newswire)

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CTU rejects Govt’s proposed education reforms https://www.newswire.lk/2025/07/24/ctu-rejects-govts-proposed-education-reforms/ Thu, 24 Jul 2025 12:36:27 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=196222

The Ceylon Teachers’ Union (CTU) has expressed firm opposition to the government’s proposed education reforms, citing a lack of consultation,Continue Reading

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The Ceylon Teachers’ Union (CTU) has expressed firm opposition to the government’s proposed education reforms, citing a lack of consultation, inconsistencies in policy, and potential negative impacts on students.

CTU Secretary Joseph Stalin said the union is “completely against” the reforms, which he described as rushed and lacking input from key stakeholders.

“There’s nothing new in these reforms—they’ve been discussed before. The Education Minister talks about reducing class sizes to 30 students, yet a circular issued by her this year mandates 40 students per class. How is this consistent?” Stalin questioned.

He also criticized the process, stating that reforms should be drafted by the National Education Commission, not the National Institute of Education, which he claimed lacks strategic vision. “The group that drafted these reforms are at the National Education Institute. They have no vision,” he said.

“The President spoke about school dropouts, but these reforms will only increase those numbers,” he added.

Stalin further objected to proposals extending school hours, saying teachers are being pressured to remain on duty until 2 p.m. without proper consultation. “We are completely against these arbitrary decisions,” he said. (Newswire)

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Sajith calls for white paper on education reforms, ahead of debate https://www.newswire.lk/2025/07/23/sajith-calls-for-white-paper-on-education-reforms-ahead-of-debate/ Wed, 23 Jul 2025 06:02:56 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=196035

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa called on the government to present a white paper on proposed education reforms, stating that aContinue Reading

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Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa called on the government to present a white paper on proposed education reforms, stating that a PowerPoint presentation delivered by the Prime Minister was insufficient for a meaningful debate.

The request came after the Parliament’s Business Committee decided not to proceed with the scheduled debate on the Amendments to the Electricity Act, opting instead to focus on the education reform proposals.

“Holding a debate without a white paper is ineffective,” Premadasa said. “Yesterday, the Prime Minister presented the reforms through a PowerPoint presentation, which is not appropriate. Such a method disrespects the country’s education sector and its free education system,” he said.

He urged the government to submit a formal discussion document ahead of the debate, which is expected to take place tomorrow. Premadasa also requested the debate be extended over three days to allow ample time for contributions from both government and opposition members.

In response, Leader of the House Bimal Rathnayake said the debate was intended to inform the public about the proposed reforms.

“As there is no final document yet, a broad public discussion is essential,” Rathnayake said. “The final draft of the reforms can only be completed following comprehensive debate and engagement.”

“White papers originated as a tradition in the British Parliament during a time when printing was not available,” he said. “Today, we are in the digital era, where information can be shared through PowerPoint presentations or other technological means. A PowerPoint presentation is not an insult,” he added. (Newswire)

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PM responds to reports on History subject https://www.newswire.lk/2025/07/17/pm-responds-to-reports-on-history-subject/ Thu, 17 Jul 2025 07:24:49 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=195314

Minister of Education, PM Harini Amarasuriya, has denied claims that history and aesthetics have been removed from the new educationContinue Reading

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Minister of Education, PM Harini Amarasuriya, has denied claims that history and aesthetics have been removed from the new education reforms, stating they were false claims.

Speaking during a program held today to brief Western Province education officials about the new education reforms, PM Amarasuriya emphasized that education and children’s lives should not be used for political gain.

“New education reforms have, in fact, made it mandatory to study subjects such as history, Aesthetics, and vocational studies. However, certain parties, without properly studying the national education plan, are spreading false information that the subjects of history and Aesthetics have been removed. These reforms have been developed after holding extensive discussions with subject experts, moving forward the objective of ensuring that every student gets the opportunity to study history and the Aesthetics subjects, which enhance human values. We can do politics, but do not drag education and children’s education into it,” she said.

PM Harini Amarasuriya further said that the new education reforms clearly outline how these subjects should be studied, with a focus on producing well-rounded students who are not limited to a single field. The reforms were carried out with understanding and awareness, she said.

The Prime Minister urged everyone informed about the new education reforms to convey the truth to society. (Newswire)

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MPs briefed on education reforms to be implemented from 2026 https://www.newswire.lk/2025/07/11/mps-briefed-on-education-reforms-to-be-implemented-from-2026/ Fri, 11 Jul 2025 11:05:18 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=194711

The first awareness programme on the proposed education reforms to be implemented from the year 2026 was held in ParliamentContinue Reading

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The first awareness programme on the proposed education reforms to be implemented from the year 2026 was held in Parliament today under the patronage of the Minister of Education, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya.

During the session, Members of Parliament were briefed on key aspects, including the objectives and goals of the new reforms, the guiding principles behind the reforms, the main pillars of the reformed education system, curriculum revisions, implementation procedures, and teacher training.

Clarifications were also provided on how the new education reforms will be implemented and monitored by the Ministry of Education, the National Institute of Education, and the National Education Commission.

The discussion further highlighted that the primary aim of the new education reforms is to lay a strong foundation for creating a citizen capable of facing the challenges of the 21st century and beyond. It also aims to engage new citizens in the process of sustainable national development and peacebuilding.

According to the Prime Minister’s Office, following the initial presentation on educational reforms, Members of Parliament shared their views and proposed new suggestions related to the reforms.

Special attention was also given to the importance and necessity of ensuring that this educational transformation also addresses the needs of children with special needs and disabilities.

The discussion was attended by the Deputy Minister of Education and Higher Education Madura Seneviratne, Members of Parliament, Secretary to the Prime Minister Pradeep Saputhanthri, Secretary to the Ministry of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Education Nalaka Kaluwawa, Vice Chairman of the National Education Commission Tilak Dharmaratne, and other officials from the Ministry of Education, National Institute of Education, and the National Education Commission. (Newswire)

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From 2026 : New Curricula for Grades 1, 6 and 10 – O/L changes by 2029 https://www.newswire.lk/2025/06/17/from-2026-new-curricula-for-grades-1-6-and-10-o-l-changes-by-2029/ Tue, 17 Jun 2025 08:45:21 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=191440

The new educational transformation initiative, scheduled to begin in 2026, will see its official guidelines released in August 2025, MinisterContinue Reading

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The new educational transformation initiative, scheduled to begin in 2026, will see its official guidelines released in August 2025, Minister of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Training, PM Harini Amarasuriya said.

PM Amarasuriya said that this was discussed during a meeting held at the National Institute of Education (NIE) in Maharagama yesterday, adding that the discussion focused on the steps required to implement the reforms and train teachers accordingly. 

She further said that the following reforms will be introduced gradually.

  • New curricula will be introduced for Grades 1 and 6 in 2026
  • A new syllabus will be introduced for Grade 10 in 2028
  • The first GCE Ordinary Level Exam under the new syllabus will take place in 2029
  • Vocational education will be introduced from Grade 9

PM Amarasuriya stated that the reform process will be based on curriculum revision, teacher training, infrastructure and administration, proper assessment mechanisms, and public engagement. 

She emphasised that it was the responsibility of NIE to produce teachers who are well-prepared for this transformation.

PM Amarasuriya also instructed officials to ensure that the implementation of these programmes is continuously monitored and evaluated through a proper assessment framework. (Newswire)

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Five key measures outlined for education reforms https://www.newswire.lk/2024/06/04/five-key-measures-outlined-for-education-reforms/ Tue, 04 Jun 2024 08:45:47 +0000 http://www.newswire.lk/?p=149280

The Cabinet of Ministers has approved to take measures for the efficient and effective implementation of the overall education reforms,Continue Reading

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The Cabinet of Ministers has approved to take measures for the efficient and effective implementation of the overall education reforms, based on the recommendations of the Cabinet Sub-Committee chaired by the President. 

Following are the five key measures outlined by the Education Minister to establish an appropriate administrative structure for this purpose.

  1. Classification of schools according to international standards  
  2. Establishment of nine educational reform units for the nine provinces  Phase-wise increase in the number of Zonal Education Offices from 100 to 122 based on scientific and priority order  
  3. Establishment of 350 School Boards including the existing 314 Zonal Education Offices with the aim of ensuring the validity of school supervision, teacher supervision and school-based evaluations  
  4. Grouping the entire school system into 1220 school clusters, each cluster consisting of 8 to 12 schools, with one or more selected secondary schools designated as leading schools.  
  5. Recruitment of necessary officers for the Sri Lanka Education Administration Service and Teaching Service 

The measures have been proposed in line with the National Education Policy Framework 2023-2033 prepared per the vision of a fully developed Sri Lanka in the year 2048 intending to provide access opportunities and quality education to every student in the country.

The Framework has presented facts about the transformative change that Sri Lankan education must undergo, especially in the organizational structure, curriculum and evaluation system, to establish a long-term learning system. 

As such, the Cabinet approved the proposal presented by the Minister of Education outlining the necessary measures in this regard. (Newswire)

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