School hours to remain unchanged in 2026 due to disaster damage: Ministry

Colombo, January 1 (Daily Mirror) - Considering the ongoing disaster situation in the country and the damage caused to the school and transport systems in several provinces, the Education Ministry has decided not to extend school hours in 2026 until these systems are fully restored.

Key details for the 2026 school year are as follows:

• School hours for Grades 5–13 will remain 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
• First term for government, government-approved private schools, and Pirivenas will begin on 5 January 2026
• Number of periods per day (Grades 6–13): 7, with 45 minutes per period
• Education reform process will be implemented for Grades 1 and 6 in 2026
• Grade 6 studies will formally commence on 21 January 2026
• Identification of Grade 1 students will begin on 5 January 2026, with formal studies starting 29 January 2026
• Activity books for Grade 1 and learning modules for Grade 6 have been distributed before the start of studies
• Textbooks for other grades have already been fully distributed
• The remaining 2025 GCE Advanced Level Examination will be held from 12 to 20 January 2026
• A detailed circular regarding these arrangements will be issued on 2 January 2026