GL discusses with Governors how to improve education system

Prof. Peiris stresses a point during the discussion (Pic courtesy Education Ministry)

Having assumed office, Professor G. L. Peiris, Minister of Education on Monday (17) discussed with provincial Governors how to improve the educational system across the country.

Particular emphasis was placed on the organisation of a series of consultations with stakeholders, including principals and teachers of schools, parents, students, public officials and civil society organizations on the revision of curricula and teaching methods.

The Minister said that the government’s approach was bottom-up rather than top-down with regard to the formulation and implementation of policy, hence the critical importance of the fullest range of consultations and gathering of responses before decisions were made.

The discussion included links between the content of education and employment opportunity, lateral entry into programs of vocational education at different stages of the education process, and more extended use of online educational programs likely to receive greater acceptance in the post-COVID situation.

Those participating included Governor of North Western Province Mahipala Herath, Governor of Western Province Roshan Goonetileke, Governor of Sabaragamuwa Province Tikiri Kobbekaduwa, Governor of Central Province Lalith U. Gamage, Governor of Wayamba Province A.J.M. Muzammil, Governor of Sothern Province Willy Gamage, Governor of Eastern Province Anuradha Yahampath, Governor of Uva Province Raja Kollure, and Governor of Northern Province P.S.M. Charles.

Others present were Minister Piyal Nishantha de Silva (Women and Child Development, Pre-School and Primary Education, School Infrastructure and School Services), Minister Vijitha Berugoda (Dhamma Schools, Bhikku Education, Pirivenas and Buddhist Universities) and Minister Seetha Arambepola (Skills Development, Vocational Education, Research and Innovation).

A number of other senior officers from the ministry of education also participated in this occasion.