The government has approved the awarding of contracts worth Rs. 1,614.69 million to 21 printing institutions to print school textbooks and modules required for free distribution among students in 2027.

Under the first phase of the programme, 421 types of textbooks and modules will be printed, including modules required for students in Grades 1, 2 and 6.

The Department of Educational Publications had called for bids under the National Competitive Procurement procedure to select printers for the programme, with 31 bids received.

Following an evaluation of the bids, the contracts are to be awarded to 21 printing institutions based on recommendations made by the High-Level Standing Procurement Committee.

The total contract value of Rs. 1.614 billion excludes Value Added Tax (VAT).

The Cabinet approved the proposal submitted by the Prime Minister in her capacity as Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education to award the printing contracts. (Newswire)

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A new subject covering entrepreneurship and financial literacy will be introduced for Grade 6 students from 2027 as part of Sri Lanka’s new curriculum reforms, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya has announced.

PM Amarasuriya said the broader curriculum reforms are designed to provide students from Grades 6 to 9 with knowledge of entrepreneurship and financial literacy.

As the first phase of the initiative, the new subject will be introduced to all Grade 6 students in 2027, she said while addressing a bell-ringing ceremony held to promote financial literacy.

The Prime Minister also highlighted programmes such as the Stock Market Game and school capital market clubs, which are aimed at giving schoolchildren and young people practical exposure to entrepreneurship and investment from an early age.

She stressed that financial literacy education should also have a strong focus on ethics and responsible financial behaviour.

Young people should be taught that earning money should not involve exploiting or deceiving others and should instead understand the importance of acting responsibly and ethically, PM Amarasuriya said. (Newswire)

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A total of 2,345 government secondary schools across Sri Lanka have been provided with new high-speed fibre internet connections, while plans are underway to extend the facility to all 3,832 primary schools during 2027 and 2028.

The programme is jointly implemented by the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL) under its “Communication to the Village” project and the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education.

The project aims to provide high-speed fibre internet connectivity to 6,225 secondary schools islandwide. Before the programme commenced, 1,264 schools already had fibre connections, while another 2,345 schools have since received new connections.

Fibre internet connections are currently being provided to the remaining 2,616 secondary schools under the programme.

Of the 2,345 schools newly connected so far, 347 are in the Eastern Province, 334 in the North Western Province, 303 in Sabaragamuwa, 300 in the Southern Province, 285 in the Western Province, 275 in the Central Province, 176 in Uva, 172 in the Northern Province and 153 in the North Central Province.

Meanwhile, Rs. 150 million has been allocated through the 2026 Budget to provide the schools with unlimited internet packages at a monthly cost of Rs. 5,130 each.

The next phase will extend high-speed internet facilities to all 3,832 primary schools across the country during 2027/2028, with the ultimate goal of providing high-speed internet connectivity to every school in Sri Lanka.

The initiative is aimed at supporting digital education and ongoing education reforms while ensuring students in both rural and urban areas have equal access to modern information technology tools. (Newswire)

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The Cabinet has approved the implementation of the revised National Curriculum Framework, allowing education reforms introduced for Grade 1 this year to continue and paving the way for reforms to be implemented for Grades 2 and 6.

The approval was granted following a proposal presented by the Prime Minister in her capacity as the Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education.

Under the revised plan, education reforms for Grade 6, which were postponed from 2026, are scheduled to be implemented in 2027, while the reforms introduced for Grade 1 this year will continue.

Preparations have also been made for the reforms, with activity books and teachers’ guides for Grades 1 and 2 covering all three school terms in 2027 prepared for printing.

Modules covering all three terms for Grade 6, together with the relevant teachers’ guides, have also been prepared.

The National Institute of Education (NIE) has trained master trainers for all primary and secondary subjects, while plans have been prepared to conduct teacher training at the provincial level.

The latest curriculum framework follows a review of the previous framework prepared by the NIE, incorporating observations and recommendations made through the Government’s education reform process.

The revised framework received the concurrence of the National Steering Committee for New Education Reforms on August 13, 2026.

A new policy guideline on school-based evaluation and assessment has also been prepared and approved as part of the reforms, taking into account the resources available within the school system.

The broader education reform process initially envisaged introducing the new curriculum for Grades 1 and 6 in 2026. However, the Government subsequently decided to implement the Grade 1 reforms this year and postpone the Grade 6 reforms until 2027. (Newswire)

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The government has taken steps to distribute 4,570 smart boards to schools across Sri Lanka under several education modernization projects, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya told Parliament on Tuesday (22).

Responding to a question raised by MP Rohini Kumari Wijerathna, the Prime Minister outlined the progress of three initiatives aimed at introducing digital technology into classrooms.

Under a project funded in 2024 by the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission, 1,000 smart boards have already been distributed to 1,000 schools.

Of the 900 smart boards imported for 2025-2026 under a Chinese assistance project, 500 have been distributed to schools. Installation work is underway through a project management committee appointed by the Chinese government.

Meanwhile, all 2,670 smart boards procured at the provincial level under a project funded by the Ministry of Digital Economy have been distributed, with installation work continuing.

The provincial distribution of the 2,670 smart boards is as follows:

Prime Minister Amarasuriya said the primary objective of these initiatives is to digitalize school classrooms and provide students with greater access to modern technology. (Newswire)

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The Ministry of Education announced today that the responsibility for decisions on school operations during the prevailing adverse weather has been entrusted to provincial education authorities.

As of 9.00 am today (21), provincial officials informed the Ministry that 35 schools in the Central Province, along with one school each in Sabaragamuwa, Southern, and Western Provinces, amounting to a total of 38 schools, will remain closed.

The Ministry stated that these closures are precautionary measures taken to safeguard students and staff, while allowing provincial authorities flexibility to respond to local weather developments. (Newswire)

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Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya says the government will not provide smart boards to every classroom, as they are not necessary at all levels of education.

She emphasized that children should be introduced to technology at an appropriate age and urged school principals not to collect money from parents to purchase smart boards.

“Please tell principals not to collect money from parents,” she said.

She cautioned that “various other issues could arise if devices are used unnecessarily, which could lead to addiction.” 

PM Amarasuriya added that the distribution of smart boards is being carried out according to a plan, based on necessity and age appropriateness. (Newswire)

Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya says the government will not provide smart boards to every classroom, as they are not necessary at all levels of education.

She emphasized that children should be introduced to technology at an appropriate age and urged school principals not to… pic.twitter.com/9bfjFO0Snl

— NewsWire (@NewsWireLK) September 19, 2026

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A principal of a reputed school in Rumassala, Unawatuna was arrested on Monday (07) by officials of the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption on charges of soliciting and accepting a bribe of Rs.250,000 for admitting two children to the school.

It is reported that according to a complaint lodged by the children’s mother, the suspect was taken into custody at a well‑known shop in Habaraduwa, Galle.

The Bribery Commission states that the suspect, identified as a resident of Ahangama, had initially demanded Rs.600,000 to admit the children to Grade 1 and Grade 8 in 2026.

The amount was later reduced to Rs.300,000, of which Rs.150,000 was accepted. 

The complainant further alleged that after receiving this sum, the suspect continued to demand additional payments and threatened that the children would be removed from the school if the money was not provided.

The suspect was arrested while accepting Rs.250,000 and is scheduled to be produced before the Galle Magistrate’s Court today. (Newswire)

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The Ministry of Education announced that the second phase of the third school term for 2026 commences today (07).

According to the ministry,  the second phase of the third school term will continue until December 4.

The Ministry added that thereafter, the 2026 G.C.E. Ordinary Level Examination will be held from December 8 to December 17. (Newswire)

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The World Food Programme (WFP) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening school nutrition programmes in Sri Lanka, following a meeting with Minister of Education, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya at Temple Trees today (24).

During the discussions, WFP representatives expressed readiness to continue their partnership with the Government of Sri Lanka and highlighted their interest in working closely with ministries, universities, UN agencies, and other stakeholders to advance nutrition interventions within the school system.

Prime Minister Amarasuriya stressed that nutrition remains a major concern, pointing to the importance of promoting healthier eating habits alongside strengthening primary and preventive healthcare. 

She noted that the government’s school nutrition programme is already being implemented in targeted schools and among identified families, with interventions also introduced at the early childhood level.

The Prime Minister further raised concerns about the rising prevalence of non‑communicable diseases (NCDs), underscoring the need to examine underlying causes.

She emphasized that the government’s approach must go beyond free meals, focusing instead on nutritional awareness, healthier dietary practices, and long‑term behavioural change across the school system.

The WFP delegation echoed these priorities, stressing the importance of collaboration and evidence‑based decision‑making. They noted that policies and programmes relating to nutrition and health should be guided by reliable research and a clear understanding of the root causes of nutritional challenges and NCDs.

The meeting was attended by Philip Ward, WFP Representative and Country Director; Robert Oliver, Deputy Country Director and Head of Programmes; Professor Jayashree Arcot, Professor of Food Science and Nutrition at the University of New South Wales, Sydney; as well as officials from the Ministry of Education and WFP representatives. (Newswire)

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A departmental inquiry committee has been appointed to investigate the incident involving a misplaced stock of school textbooks, Deputy Minister of Education Madhura Senewiratne said. 

He added that police investigations are also underway in connection with the matter.

According to police findings, after the textbooks were handed over for transport, the first suspect sold the consignment to a location in Alawwa. 

The owner of that establishment then resold the stock to a center in Narammala, from where it was later moved to Wattala.

The Department of Educational Publications had originally handed over the textbooks on May 24 for distribution to schools in the Eastern Province. 

The consignment comprised Tamil language activity books and Grade One textbooks for the third term, valued at more than Rs. 800,000.

Police confirmed that five suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident and have been remanded until August 25 pending further investigations. (Newswire)

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Qatar Charity has inaugurated a newly constructed three‑storey Science Laboratory Building at Kalutara Muslim Central College, marking a major investment in education and scientific learning in Sri Lanka.

Valued at approximately Rs. 83 million, the project aims to enhance science education and provide modern learning opportunities to more than 1,500 students studying in Sinhala, Tamil, and English mediums. 

The facility was officially opened by Western Province Governor Hanif Yusoof and Mr. Khalil Al Mahmoud, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the State of Qatar in Sri Lanka. Distinguished guests included Mahmoud Abu Khalifa, Country Director of Qatar Charity Sri Lanka, MP Nandana Pathmakumara, former Minister Ali Sabry, school principal Nafras Nilar, teachers, students, and community leaders.

The new science complex houses four fully equipped laboratories dedicated to Chemistry, Biology, Physics, and General Science, furnished with modern equipment, resources, and safety facilities. It also includes four classrooms with advanced digital display systems to support interactive teaching, alongside a landscaped front garden that enhances the campus environment.

Speaking at the inauguration, Country Director Mahmoud Abu Khalifa reaffirmed Qatar Charity’s commitment to education as a cornerstone of sustainable development. He emphasized that investing in educational infrastructure delivers lasting social and economic benefits by equipping future generations with knowledge and skills. He noted that the project is part of a broader initiative by Qatar Charity, which has previously supported educational facilities in Trincomalee and Ampara, and expressed confidence that the new laboratories will inspire students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, medicine, and research.

The facility is expected to significantly improve learning opportunities by enabling practical experiments and hands‑on scientific investigations. These experiences will deepen students’ understanding of scientific concepts, improve academic performance, and foster critical thinking, creativity, and innovation. Digital classroom technology will further enrich teaching through multimedia and interactive methods, while the modern environment is expected to boost student interest and confidence in science subjects.

Chargé d’Affaires Khalil Al Mahmoud described education as the foundation of national progress and praised Qatar Charity’s contributions as an investment in future generations. He encouraged students to make full use of the new facilities and reaffirmed the strong partnership between Qatar and Sri Lanka in education and human development.

Governor Hanif Yusoof expressed gratitude to Qatar Charity and the people of Qatar for their continued support, stressing that investments in education are investments in the nation’s future. MP Nandana Pathmakumara highlighted the importance of unity and collective development, noting that initiatives of this nature strengthen both educational institutions and international friendship.

The new science laboratory building at Kalutara Muslim Central College stands as a milestone in educational infrastructure, combining modern laboratories, digital learning technologies, and a focus on quality education. It is expected to benefit thousands of students for years to come, underscoring the positive impact of international cooperation and Qatar Charity’s mission to empower communities through education and sustainable development. (Newswire)

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The Ministry of Education has announced the completion dates for the first phase of the third school term and the commencement of the second phase for government and government‑approved private schools in 2026.

According to the Education Ministry:

• The first phase of the third term will end on Friday, August 7 for Sinhala and Tamil schools.
• The first phase of the third term will conclude for Muslim schools on Wednesday, September 2.
• The second phase of the third term will begin for all schools on Monday, September 7.
• The second phase of the third term will end for all schools on Friday, December 4.

The Education Ministry further announced that the 2026 G.C.E. Advanced Level Examination will be held from August 10 to September 5. (Newswire)

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All government schools in the Kandy and Nuwara Eliya districts will reopen tomorrow (05), the Central Province Director of Education announced today.

The schools were closed yesterday (04) due to adverse weather conditions and continuous heavy rainfall, which had raised safety concerns for students and teachers.

The closure was ordered under the instructions of the Secretary to the Central Provincial Ministry of Education, with the primary aim of ensuring the safety of schoolchildren and staff.

With weather conditions easing, authorities confirmed that schools in both districts will resume normal operations from Wednesday. (Newswire)

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The decision on whether schools in the Hatton and Nuwara Eliya education zones of the Central Province will remain open amid adverse weather has been entrusted to the principals of the respective schools.

According to the Provincial Director of Education, principals have been authorized to determine whether classes should be conducted under the prevailing heavy rainfall and unsafe conditions.

The Chief Secretary of the Central Province has also instructed that schools in the affected zones be closed as necessary, citing the severe rainfall and deteriorating weather. (Newswire)

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The Old Boys’ Association of Sir John Kothalawala College says that although the child admitted to lighting matches which caused a teacher’s car to catch fire, being only about eight years old, neither the school administration nor Sri Lanka Police has filed charges or treated him as an offender, and will not do so. 

Issuing a statement, the Association emphasized that no charges or pressure will be placed on the child, firmly rejecting social media claims that school authorities exerted undue influence. 

The incident occurred on July 3 at 2.55 pm when the teacher’s car caught fire inside the school premises. CCTV footage later revealed a small child loitering near the vehicle and discarding a matchbox. 

The teacher lodged a complaint with Kurunegala Headquarters Police for insurance purposes, submitting CCTV footage and photos, but did not mention the child’s name.

The teacher has not pressured the child or parents in any way. He did not mention the child’s name in complaints. However, the mother has included the child’s name in complaints against the teacher, which is regrettable, the statement said. 

On July 4, the child, along with his parents, was questioned before the Principal and Deputy Principal, where he admitted to lighting several matches and throwing one into the car’s bumper. 

The parents confirmed the act, and the father pledged compensation for the damage. Police officers from the Science of Crime Office (SOCO) conducted an inspection and permitted the car to be taken for repairs.

The Old Boys’ Association emphasized that the child continues to attend school regularly and that his safety and rights are being safeguarded. They condemned distorted social media posts that circulated CCTV footage and reports in ways that defamed the school.

The child’s younger brother in Grade 2 has not been scolded or punished by the teacher regarding earlier scratches on the car. Parents confirmed this. The teacher regrets that repairs cannot be done yet due to lack of insurance compensation or spare parts, the Association said. 

The affected teacher, described as highly dedicated to Grade 5 students, continues his duties without interruption, conducting voluntary extra classes and online lessons despite the incident. 

The Association also criticized the parents for leaving the child unsupervised for over three hours after school ended, stressing that responsibility for children’s safety lies with parents, not the school staff.

On July 03, after school ended at 1 pm, children left. But the child remained until 4 pm, over three hours. Allowing such a small child under 8 years to remain unnecessarily at school is a serious fault of the parents. Parents must take children home immediately after school, the Old Boys’ Association said, expressing strong disapproval. 

The Association reiterated that the case highlights broader concerns about child safety and serves as a warning to society about the unnecessary use of mobile phones by small children. (Newswire)

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The Ministry of Education has announced that annual and compulsory teacher transfer applications for national schools for the year 2026 are now open online via http://nstt.moe.gov.lk.

Teachers have the opportunity to submit applications through the online system between 16-30 July, 2026.

A printed copy of the completed application must then be handed over to the principal of the school where the teacher receives his or her salary, on or before July 31, 2026.

The Ministry has emphasized that applications submitted personally or sent by post will not be accepted by the Ministry of Education. (Newswire)

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The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a proposal to provide a pair of shoes to selected school students, Pirivena lay and ordained students, and Sīlamātās under a nationwide programme for 2027.

The initiative builds on the 2026 program, which was implemented under two phases and covered 836,571 students. For 2027, the program is scheduled to be completed by the end of the third school term of 2026.

According to the proposal presented by the Prime Minister, in her capacity as the  Minister of Education, shoes for students in the Western, Southern, Sabaragamuwa, Eastern, and North Western provinces will be purchased directly from local manufacturers and delivered to schools. 

In the Central, Northern, North Central, and Uva provinces, shoes will be procured from the market.

Each eligible student will receive a voucher worth Rs. 3,000 to facilitate the distribution. (Newswire)

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The Federation of University Teachers’ Association (FUTA) has warned that university lecturers may reconsider their continued services to the education sector if the government fails to suspend and amend the newly issued Grade One admission circular.

Addressing the media, FUTA Media Spokesman Charudaththe Illangasinghe said the circular introduces conditions requiring professors involved in the formulation of state examination papers and evaluation of answer scripts to disclose this information to schools. 

He stressed that such identities are kept strictly confidential, even among lecturers themselves, and warned that forcing disclosure would compromise the secrecy and integrity of national examinations.

Illangasinghe noted that the move effectively restricts the admission of children of university lecturers, creating serious concerns within the academic community. 

FUTA has written to the President urging immediate suspension of the circular and correction of the criteria before re‑issuing it.

“If this is not done, we are holding discussions on whether university lecturers should continue their services to the education sector. We will be able to inform our decision within a week if the President does not intervene,” Illangasinghe said. (Newswire)

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The Ministry of Education has announced that the official circular governing admissions of children to Grade One in government schools for the year 2027 will be published in government newspapers on Monday, June 29, 2026. 

The guidelines are contained in Circular No. 25/2026, which is now available on the official Ministry website at www.moe.gov.lk, where detailed instructions and procedures for Grade One admissions have been provided.

Sinhala Download: https://newswire.lk/pdf/25-2026-Si.pdf 

Tamil Download: https://newswire.lk/pdf/25-2026-Ta.pdf (Newswire)

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