December 15, Colombo (LNW): Schools closed in the wake of Cyclone Ditwah are set to reopen across the country tomorrow (16), marking a key step towards restoring normalcy in the education sector.
The Ministry of Education has instructed school principals, teaching staff and non-academic employees to report today to carry out essential preparations ahead of the reopening.
However, the Ministry confirmed that 147 schools which sustained severe damage will remain closed until further notice, as repairs and safety assessments continue.
In consideration of families affected by the disaster, authorities have announced a flexible approach to school uniforms for both students and staff in impacted areas. This temporary measure aims to ease the burden on households still recovering from losses.
To support students returning to school, the Sri Lanka Transport Board has extended travel concessions, allowing schoolchildren to use their November season tickets throughout the current month. Deputy Minister of Transport and Highways Prasanna Gunasena said the facility can be accessed by simply presenting the previous month’s ticket.
In a show of solidarity, Deputy Minister of Labour Mahinda Jayasinghe revealed that teachers have agreed to contribute one day’s salary in January to a fund dedicated to restoring education facilities and resuming disrupted academic activities.
