In a major educational reform, Minister of Education Susil Premajayantha has announced plans to convert 1,250 of the country’s leading schools into “smart schools,” facilitating centralized management from the Ministry of Education (MOE). This initiative, supported by a USD 20 million aid package from China, aims to modernize school operations and enhance educational standards.
Minister Premajayantha revealed the initiative during an event at Sirimavo Bandaranaike Vidyalaya in Colombo, where classrooms for grades 1 to 5 were recently upgraded to smart classrooms. This marks the beginning of a broader transformation expected to revolutionize the learning environment.
The government is also progressing with a new education system, set to be implemented next year for grades 1-6 and 6-10. Learning modules have been finalized, and textbooks are slated for printing within the next two weeks. However, the Minister noted that effective teacher training is crucial to ensure the successful adoption of these changes.
Additionally, Minister Premajayantha outlined plans to consolidate the National Colleges of Education (NCEs) into a single university. Starting in 2028, only individuals with Bachelor of Education degrees will be eligible for teaching positions, with diploma holders no longer recruited. This move aims to elevate the qualifications of teaching professionals and ensure high standards in education.
The Minister also stressed the need for continuous professional development, emphasizing that both teachers and doctors must stay updated with advancements in their respective fields to address future challenges effectively.
