December 24, Colombo (LNW): The enforcement of a circular issued by the Provincial Ministry of Education in the Western Province, which prohibited schoolteachers from conducting private tuition classes, has been temporarily halted.
This move comes after the Governor of the Western Province intervened, responding to objections raised by various stakeholders regarding the new directive.
The circular, issued on December 20 by the Secretary of the Provincial Ministry of Education, had stirred controversy by forbidding teachers from offering paid tuition to students attending their own schools.
The ban was intended to address concerns over the ethical implications of teachers providing additional lessons to their own pupils outside of school hours, particularly when it came to matters of fairness and undue influence.
Following a wave of criticism, including concerns from educators, parents, and various unions, the Governor of the Western Province ordered a temporary suspension of the circular’s implementation.
The decision was made after careful consideration of the widespread objections, which highlighted the potential negative impact on both teachers’ livelihoods and the quality of education for students.
Deputy Minister of Labour, Mahinda Jayasinghe, confirmed the suspension, stating that the move was necessary to allow further consultation on the matter.
He acknowledged the concerns that had been raised, particularly regarding the practicalities and fairness of such a ban, and indicated that the government would be reviewing the issue before taking any further steps.
While the circular’s suspension has brought temporary relief to teachers, it remains uncertain whether a revised version of the directive will be issued or if the original ban will be reintroduced after further deliberation.
