School events should not place financial burden on parents – PM Harini

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya has stated that school events should be planned so they do not create financial stress for parents. She also highlighted the importance of accepting appointments or transfers and starting work at the assigned locations. Additionally, she mentioned that the funds set aside for 2026 must be used wisely for school development, according to the PM’s Office. These comments were made during a meeting on March 15 with teachers and principals from the Hambantota, Tangalle, and Walasmulla education zones to discuss new education reforms. The Prime Minister noted that in 2027, new education reforms will be launched for Grade 6 and Grade 2. A committee is already in place to help include current Grade 6 students in these reforms. Future actions will depend on the committee's recommendations. Efforts are underway to enhance school facilities, develop classrooms, and implement education reforms. Plans are being made to keep class sizes between 25 and 30 students in primary grades and up to 35 in secondary grades. Schools must not admit students beyond the rules set in the official circulars. The Engineering Division is working on plans to ensure classrooms support practical and activity-based learning. Some challenges in schools can be addressed at the Provincial Council and Local Government levels. Improvements should follow quality standards for sanitation and renovations. Funding for school development was allocated for both 2025 and 2026. Structured committees are expected to create detailed plans and submit them to the District Development Committee for approval. These funds need to be used effectively for school development. By 2026, every school is expected to have smart boards and internet access. Parents should not have to pay for these items. Each school has a yearly plan and budget that has been approved. Therefore, schools should not ask for extra money from parents beyond what is already allocated. School events, in particular, should be organized without putting financial pressure on families. For many years, there have been unfilled vacancies for teachers and principals, leading to various issues. Following the resolution of related legal matters, steps are being taken to formally recruit over 23,000 teachers. The exams for these positions are set for late April or early May. Vacancies for principal positions have been announced, but the number of applications has been quite low. Concerns about salary issues in principal roles and wider salary differences have been noted. Proposals addressing these issues are being sent to the Salary Commission. At the same time, some individuals who protest for teacher appointments are reluctant to accept the positions or transfers once they are offered.