June 18, Colombo (LNW): Prime Minister and Minister of Education Harini Amarasuriya has emphasised that only programmes authorised by the relevant government authorities should be permitted within schools, warning against the implementation of unapproved initiatives by external organisations and interest groups.
She made the remarks during a meeting with education officials from the North Central Province held in Anuradhapura on Wednesday, where discussions centred on strengthening educational standards and addressing challenges faced by schools across the province.
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said the government is making a substantial investment in the education sector with the objective of ensuring that every child receives high-quality learning opportunities. She noted that decisions affecting schools should always prioritise the best interests of students and contribute meaningfully to their overall development.
The meeting reviewed a broad range of education-related matters, including strategies to improve student performance in key public examinations, progress on school infrastructure projects, and initiatives being implemented at zonal and provincial levels to enhance teaching and learning outcomes.
Officials also discussed ongoing efforts to restore and improve educational facilities affected by recent adverse weather events, while examining ways to provide additional support to schools facing resource and administrative challenges.
During the discussions, provincial education authorities raised a number of concerns relating to academic activities, student welfare, staffing requirements and administrative processes. The Prime Minister assured officials that these issues would receive careful attention as part of wider efforts to strengthen the education system.
She further stressed that the success of a school should not be measured solely by examination results. A well-rounded education, she said, also depends on participation in subject-based activities, extracurricular programmes, creativity, leadership development and the overall wellbeing of students.