China completes 2026 school uniform donation for over 4.4 million students

Colombo, April 22 (Daily Mirror) - Certificates were officially exchanged today (22) confirming the completion of the full provision of school uniforms for 2026, donated by the Republic of China.

The announcement ceremony was held at the Education Ministry premises in Isurupaya under the patronage of Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education, Harini Amarasuriya.

During the event, Prime Minister Amarasuriya and the Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Qi Zhenhong, exchanged certificates confirming that 11.484 million metres of cloth donated by China had been fully distributed to meet the country’s total school uniform requirement for 2026.

The programme has benefited more than 4.4 million students in government and government-approved schools, including student monks, nuns, and lay students of Pirivenas.

Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Amarasuriya described the donation as a significant milestone in the longstanding cooperation between Sri Lanka and China. She noted that China has consistently supported Sri Lanka’s efforts in educational transformation, as well as its economic and social development.

She highlighted that school uniforms represent more than a basic necessity, highlighting their role in promoting dignity and equality among students. The uniform distribution programme, she said, helps reduce disparities and enables children to pursue their education with confidence.

The Prime Minister also expressed appreciation to the Chinese Ambassador, embassy officials, and Ministry of Education staff for ensuring the timely implementation of the programme.

Speaking at the event, Ambassador Qi Zhenhong stated that the school uniform donation programme has been carried out continuously over the past four years. He added that China continues to support Sri Lanka’s education sector through initiatives such as digital infrastructure development and scholarship programmes, reflecting the enduring friendship between the two countries.

The event was attended by Deputy Minister of Education and Higher Education Dr. Madura Seneviratne, Ministry Secretary Nalaka Kaluwewa, officials from the Chinese Embassy, and representatives of the Ministry of Education.