Deputy Minister of Education and Higher Education Dr. Madura Seneviratne informed Parliament that the Grade Five Scholarship Examination will continue without changes until 2029, and will not be discontinued immediately.
He stated that the Government has decided to retain the exam in its current form until a final decision is made in 2029. To that end, a review committee will be appointed in 2028 to assess the future of the scholarship exam. This committee will examine the feasibility of continuing the exam and propose measures to reduce the pressure placed on young students. The final decision will be based on both the committee’s findings and the Education Department’s recommendations.
Dr. Seneviratne also revealed that the Department of Examinations is currently preparing a plan to ease the stress of the examination for students during the transitional period leading up to 2028.
He further stated that the Government is committed to gradually addressing disparities between schools and ensuring a more equitable education system, thereby reducing the intense competition and psychological burden associated with the Grade Five Scholarship Exam.
