Grade 6 English module issue CID records statements from six officers attached to NIE

Those questioned include module writers attached to the NIE’s Academic Affairs Division, as well as officials responsible for reviewing, editing and proofreading educational modules  

Appropriate disciplinary action would be taken based on the findings of the investigation reports  

By Sujith Hewajulige   

Statements have been recorded from six individuals, including senior officials of the National Institute of Education (NIE), in connection with the inclusion of a link to a pornographic website in a Grade Six English module.  

Those questioned include module writers attached to the NIE’s Academic Affairs Division, as well as officials responsible for reviewing, editing and proofreading educational modules. Ministry sources said investigations are being carried out by a team of officers from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), while a separate preliminary inquiry into the NIE’s module preparation process is being conducted by a committee headed by Ranjith Ariyaratne. The reports of both investigations are expected to be submitted next week.   

Deputy Minister of Education Dr. Madhura Seneviratne said steps are being taken to strengthen the module development process at the National Institute of Education, with guidance from a panel of experts.   

He also said that extensive discussions were held with senior NIE officials on January 16, adding that appropriate disciplinary action would be taken based on the findings of the investigation reports.   

Following the disclosure of the incident, NIE Director General Professor Manjula Vidanapathirana recently resigned from her post to facilitate the investigations. However, sources said no statement was recorded from her, as her role was limited to administrative duties.