31 January 2012 02:42 pm
Minister Gunwardane told a news conference that ten marks would be given to students at this test to be introduced after a pilot project.
“We will have a pilot project next year. Depending on the success of the project, we will make it compulsory for all students sitting the exam, “he said.
Emphasising the importance of learning other foreign languages such as Korean and French, he said that the education policy had been redesigned to create persons with capacity to cope with challenges posed by globalisation.
“Today, we have seen tough competition among youth to sit the Korean language examination. They had to sit the exam amid police protection. Past pupils of Maliyadeva Vidyalaya, Kurunagale have arranged facilities to teach French to students at their schools. They have found teachers for them. As a result, students from Maliyadewa Vidyalaya account for the highest intake for language studies at the Kelaniya University,” he said.
The Minister said that the government would start the modernisation of 1,000 secondary schools on February 4, 2012 to coincidence with Independence Day and the Deyata Kirula event.
“This year, we have not admitted children to Grade One classes at 333 schools selected to be modernised as secondary schools. Initially, these schools will be developed. Each selected school will be given physical and human resources to teach English Language, Information Technology, Science, Mathematics and Aesthetic Subjects,” he said adding that there will be improved facilities for sports activities. (Kelum Bandara)