Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya has stressed that access to the benefits of education should not be restricted to any particular section of society, emphasising that a child’s future should be shaped by their efforts and opportunities to develop their abilities rather than their family’s economic circumstances or place of residence.
The Prime Minister made these remarks while attending the centenary celebrations of Kekunagolla National School in Kurunegala as the Chief Guest.
She said the completion of 100 years was not simply a milestone in the history of a school, but represented a century-long journey shaped by the dreams, aspirations, dedication and achievements of several generations.
Over the past century, Kekunagolla National School has positively influenced the lives of thousands of children and guided them towards a brighter future, she noted.
The Prime Minister also paid tribute to the pioneers who established the foundation of the school, the successive principals and teachers who contributed to its development, and the parents whose support helped sustain its journey, according to the Prime Minister’s Office.
Emphasising the broader purpose of education, Amarasuriya said schooling should not be limited to preparing students to pass examinations. Instead, schools must nurture responsible citizens equipped with knowledge, creativity, a sense of brotherhood and humanity.
She also highlighted the importance of teaching children to live together peacefully while respecting different religious and cultural identities. This was particularly important in a diverse area such as Kurunegala, where different ethnic and cultural communities coexist, she said.
Addressing the Government’s ongoing education reforms, the Prime Minister explained that the initiative went beyond revising a limited number of subject syllabuses and was intended to modernise the entire education system.
As part of the programme, new curricula are scheduled to be introduced for Grades 2 and 6 in 2027.
She further outlined that the Government was working to strengthen five key pillars of education: subject knowledge, teaching methodologies, teacher training, physical resources and technological resources.
These measures are aimed at reducing disparities in educational facilities between urban and rural schools and ensuring that children across the country have more equitable opportunities to develop their potential.
