New guidelines issued to safeguard student welfare and discipline in schools

The Ministry of Education in Sri Lanka has released a new circular that details steps to maintain discipline in schools. This directive is aimed at Provincial Secretaries of Education, Provincial and Zonal Education Directors, Deputy and Assistant Directors managing divisions, heads of Pirivena institutions, and school principals. The Ministry notes that these new guidelines are to be followed alongside the rules provided in the circular from April 29, 2016, regarding school discipline. The document also refers to a part of a Supreme Court decision. It emphasizes that no child should experience physical or mental harm under any circumstances, whether as punishment or otherwise. Additionally, it clearly states that corporal punishment is completely banned, and anyone who breaks this rule will face legal action. The Ministry has stressed the importance of adhering to the principles set forth in the Supreme Court ruling when dealing with student discipline issues.