The Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government has issued Public Administration Circular Letter No. 01/2026, outlining new provisions for the implementation of the Official Language Policy in Sri Lanka.
According to the circular, public officers are now provided with an additional pathway to fulfill the requirement of acquiring competency in the other official language. In addition to existing requirements, officers can now meet this criterion by passing Sinhala or Tamil as a second language at the G.C.E. Ordinary Level (O/L) Examination, along with successfully completing an oral competency test conducted by the Department of Official Languages.
Key Highlights of the Circular
Oral Competency Test Structure
The oral examination will consist of two components:
- Listening Skills Assessment
- Speaking Skills Assessment
Candidates must score at least 40% in each section separately to pass. Only those who pass the listening test will be eligible to sit for the speaking test.
Application Process
- Applications must be submitted online via the Department of Official Languages website:
- Applications are open year-round, and no gazette notification will be issued.
- Applicants must ensure they apply for the appropriate level based on their service category.
Examination Fees
- Tertiary/Senior Level I: Rs. 2000
- Secondary Level II: Rs. 1500
- Primary Level III: Rs. 1000
Payments must be made to the Bank of Ceylon, Rajagiriya branch under the specified account, with relevant details included.
Examination Schedule and Venues
The examination will be conducted twice annually, with the possibility of additional sessions depending on demand.
- Listening tests will be held at the Department of Official Languages in Rajagiriya.
- Speaking tests will be conducted at district or provincial levels or at the department premises.
Important Notes
- Admission to the exam does not guarantee eligibility confirmation.
- Candidates must present a valid National Identity Card, passport, or driver’s license.
- Results will be published online and communicated individually.
- No re-scrutiny of results will be allowed.
| Circular | English | Sinhal | Tamil |
| Website | www.languagesdept.gov.lk |
