Former Minister C.B. Ratnayake defends Sri Lankan teachers, slamming President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s controversial statement that they can’t even send SMS messages. He calls it a disrespectful blow to educators who are actively embracing technology and empowering students.
Colombo – Former Minister C.B. Ratnayake has voiced strong opposition to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s recent claim that teachers cannot even send SMS messages, stating that such remarks unfairly diminish the dignity and contribution of educators in Sri Lanka.
Speaking at a press conference held at the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) headquarters, Ratnayake emphasized that teachers should be revered as “teacher gods” in the education system. He asserted that teachers play a guiding role second only to parents and must be respected, not ridiculed.
Ratnayake recalled the President’s earlier comments suggesting that Sri Lankan teachers lack basic technological skills, including the ability to send a text message. He strongly condemned this generalization, stating that it had lowered the status of teachers in the public eye.
He further expressed concern that such a statement was made at a time when teachers across the country are actively engaging in workshops and training sessions to enhance their use of new technology and digital tools in classrooms. He argued that teachers are working hard to prepare learning environments suitable for modern educational needs.
Highlighting the critical role of educators in shaping society, Ratnayake noted that the values and knowledge imparted by teachers form the foundation of every individual’s growth. He stressed that rather than criticizing them, authorities should focus on empowering teachers with the tools they need to improve student outcomes.
Ratnayake concluded that instead of undermining their efforts, teachers deserve respect and support as they continue to evolve and adapt to the demands of a digital education era.
