Education will be protected in any crisis: PM

Colombo, June 13 (Daily Mirror) - Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education Dr. Harini Amarasuriya says the government is firmly committed to protecting education in the face of any global crisis, stressing that significant budget allocations have been made for human resource development despite economic challenges.

The Prime Minister made these remarks while addressing the ceremony held on June 13 to officially hand over a newly constructed three-storey building at Al-Mubarak College in Dadalla, Galle.

The building, constructed through the collective efforts of the residents of Dadalla, was formally handed over to the Prime Minister by the Chairman of the “Vision 2030” Association.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Amarasuriya highlighted the strong bond between schools and their communities, praising the people of Dadalla for coming together to build educational infrastructure for future generations.

She noted that the government’s ongoing education reforms are focused on equipping students with modern technology and skills. As part of these efforts, steps have been taken to provide at least one smart board to every secondary school, while internet facilities have already been extended to around 4,000 schools across the country.

The Prime Minister added that the Ministry of Digital Economy has pledged to provide internet connectivity to the remaining schools before the end of this year.

Emphasizing that technology must be used meaningfully, she said teacher training programmes and connected classroom initiatives are being implemented to improve digital learning content and educational delivery.

Dr. Amarasuriya further said that although resources are limited, the government is focused on developing the human resources required to support the country’s new education reforms and broader development goals.

“At a time when the country is rebuilding its economy, we are determined to protect education regardless of the challenges we face. Achieving national development requires the commitment of citizens, public officials and political leaders working together towards a common goal,” she said.

Deputy Minister of Vocational Education Nalin Hewage, who also addressed the event, said the government considers human resource development a key priority in national development and noted that a transformative change in Sri Lanka’s education sector is being implemented under the Prime Minister’s leadership through new education reforms.

The ceremony was attended by Southern Province Governor Prof. Susiripala Manawadu, Deputy Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Ratna Gamage, Galle Mayor Sunil Gamage, Members of Parliament, education officials, local residents, parents and students.