JVP deprived present generation the opportunity of enjoying a sound education system: Ranil

• Education reforms are needed today like never before. Education has undergone vast changes today. Classroom based education system is taking a back seat today

By Yohan Perera   

Defending white paper pertaining to education reforms which was to be brought in during his tenure as Education Minister, former President Ranil Wickremesinghe said the present generation would have enjoyed a sound education system if not for the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) which opposed the reforms.   

“Education reforms were needed by 1978 as many opposed the reforms introduced in 1971. Period for attending school was reduced by two years. Examination procedures were also changed. There was much opposition for these reforms and this is a one of the major reasons for UNP’s landslide victory in 1977,” Mr. Wickremesinghe said.   

“I introduced the white paper to bring in much needed reforms during my tenure as Education Minister. The white paper consisted of a programme to provide school children with a sound English education. We were also planning to introduce computer education at that time. However, the JVP opposed this move. Imagine how our education system would have been if the education reforms went ahead during that time,” he added.   

“Education reforms are needed today like never before. Education has undergone vast changes today. Classroom based education system is taking a back seat today,” he also said.