The Minister of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Education, Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, has underscored the urgent need for a comprehensive transformation of Sri Lanka’s education system. Speaking at a meeting with senior officials from various educational institutions, she highlighted critical issues, including the regulation of private degree institutions and bridging disparities between schools.
Dr. Amarasuriya stated that public demand for educational reform goes beyond superficial changes, requiring a systematic approach to ensure equitable access to quality education. She emphasized that addressing the gap between schools is essential and urged officials to approach this challenge as a national responsibility rather than a mere professional obligation.
She further stressed the necessity of regulating non-state higher education institutions to protect students from fraudulent degree programs. Discussions during the meeting centered on the creation of a robust legal framework to oversee the quality and operations of private degree institutions and ensure their alignment with global educational standards.
The Minister proposed the establishment of a national education management system, integrating modern technological advancements to prepare the younger generation for future challenges. Reflecting on the significance of earlier education reforms, such as the Kannangara reforms, Dr. Amarasuriya called for a comprehensive overhaul to address current educational needs.
The meeting also focused on fostering educational equality, developing innovative teaching methods, and implementing policies that embrace technological innovations across various fields. Senior officials, including Secretary to the Ministry of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Education Nalaka Kaluwewa, Director General of the Meepe South Asian Teacher Development Center Kamal Pathmasiri, Additional Secretary of the Non-Governmental Higher Education Division Chandima Janaki, and Chairperson of the National Education Commission Padmini Ranaweera, attended the event.
The government reiterated its commitment to enacting meaningful reforms to ensure access to high-quality education for all Sri Lankans while safeguarding students from substandard and deceptive private institutions.
