In response to the ongoing fuel shortage affecting transportation and daily activities across the country, the government of Sri Lanka has introduced several measures to ensure that school and higher education activities continue with minimal disruption.
Authorities have taken a series of decisions aimed at reducing fuel consumption while maintaining the continuity of education.
1. Wednesdays are declared holidays for Schools and Public Sector
One of the major decisions announced is the declaration of Wednesdays as a weekly holiday for government institutions. This measure applies to government schools, universities, and courts across the country.
The move is intended to reduce commuting and fuel usage during the current crisis. With this arrangement, schools will effectively operate on a four-day academic week until further notice.
2. Private and International Schools Requested to Follow
Private schools and international schools have also been requested to adopt similar arrangements in order to support national efforts to conserve fuel and reduce transport demand.
3. Universities Encouraged to Conduct Online Lectures
The University Grants Commission has advised universities to conduct lectures through online platforms where possible.
This step is expected to help maintain academic activities while minimizing travel for both students and lecturers.
4. Focus on Essential Academic Activities
Authorities have also indicated that non-essential events and gatherings should be minimized during this period. Schools and universities are encouraged to focus primarily on core academic teaching and learning activities.
5. Efforts to Ensure Continuity of Education
The decisions form part of broader national efforts to manage the fuel shortage while ensuring that education services continue without a complete interruption.
Education authorities have stated that the situation will be closely monitored, and further adjustments may be introduced depending on developments in the national fuel supply situation.
These temporary measures aim to strike a balance between reducing fuel consumption and safeguarding the continuity of education for students across Sri Lanka.
