Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Education, Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, emphasized the vital importance of open discussions, suggestions, and criticisms based on factual understanding in relation to the government’s ongoing education reform efforts.
Speaking at a special awareness program held today (17) at the Western Provincial Council Auditorium, Dr. Amarasuriya addressed a gathering of education officials from the Western Province. The event aimed to provide a clear understanding of the new education reforms and engage stakeholders in meaningful dialogue.
“In recent months, it is evident that the public is paying close attention to the proposed education reforms,” said the Prime Minister. “The level of engagement—through suggestions, ideas, and even criticism—is a positive sign. It indicates a collective interest in shaping a better future for our children.”
She further noted that the government’s commitment to education has been a consistent priority, visible in both its policy documents and public mandates. “We are not merely reforming curriculum content; we are initiating a broader structural transformation based on five core pillars,” she explained.
A key element of the reform, Dr. Amarasuriya said, is to prepare students for the realities of the world of work, starting from Grade 10. “We are moving away from a narrow, textbook-focused education to nurturing individuals with critical thinking, leadership, and a broader worldview.”
The Prime Minister also acknowledged that there are misunderstandings and misinformation circulating about the reforms. She welcomed constructive criticism and encouraged all stakeholders—teachers, administrators, and officials—to fully understand the new reforms and help communicate accurate information to the public.
“These reforms belong to all of us. We cannot afford to move forward in isolation or division. Only by working together can we succeed in this historic transformation for our children,” she said.
Dr. Amarasuriya also called for the creation of more platforms for open and inclusive public dialogue to ensure that the education reform process reflects the aspirations of society at large.
The event was attended by Deputy Minister of Education and Higher Education Dr. Madhura Senewiratne, Deputy Minister of Vocational Education Nalin Hewage, Deputy Minister of Labour Mahinda Jayasinghe, Western Province Governor Haniff Yusoof, Members of Parliament Lakshman Nipunarachchi, Sanjeewa Ranasinghe, and Ruwan Mapalagama, Secretary to the Ministry of Education Nalaka Kaluwawa, Western Province Chief Secretary Pradeep Pushpakumara, and senior officials from the National Institute of Education, Department of Examinations, and the Western Provincial Department of Education.
