Government’s priority is to provide quality education in a structured manner

2026-02-12 - 18:10

Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya stated that a developed human resource base is essential in order to achieve the transformative change envisaged for the country, and that providing children with a properly structured, high-quality education is a primary priority of the Government. The Prime Minister made these remarks today (12) while participating in an educational inspection tour in the Hambantota District. During the visit, the Prime Minister inspected the newly introduced workbooks for Grade One pupils for the year 2026, the progress of the core curriculum, and classroom activities at Beliatta Ruhunu Vijayaba National School and its primary section. At a discussion with the school’s teachers, the Prime Minister emphasised that the Government values the contribution made by teachers towards building a civilised society. She noted that steps have already been taken to establish an Education Council to safeguard the professionalism of teachers and to ensure quality education. The Prime Minister further stated that the Government’s objective is to eliminate infrastructure disparities among schools and to provide equal opportunities for all children. Subsequently, the Prime Minister visited Weeraketiya Rajapaksha Primary School, where she observed Grade One classrooms and teaching methodologies introduced under the new education reforms, and engaged in a cordial discussion with the pupils. She later held discussions with teachers of Weeraketiya Central College and its primary section, focusing on the challenges faced in conducting Advanced Level classes at the school and on retaining Advanced Level students within the institution. The Prime Minister also inspected Lunama Dutugemunu Maha Vidyalaya in Hambantota, drawing attention to the comparatively low student enrolment despite the school’s well-developed infrastructure. She stated that the school administration should take planned measures to increase student intake and noted that such well-equipped schools could be utilised effectively in forthcoming reform initiatives. During the tour, the Prime Minister also visited Naigala Rajamaha Viharaya and paid courtesy calls on the Chief Incumbent, Venerable Wakmulle Uditha Thero. The event was attended by the Chairman of the Hambantota District Coordinating Committee, Nihal Galappaththi; Deputy Ministers Ruwan Senarath and Aravinda Senarath; Member of Parliament Athula Welandagoda; as well as several political representatives and education officials.